Hello, Lykkers! Collagen drinks have become a go-to supplement for anyone looking to improve their skin, joints, hair, and overall well-being. You’ve probably heard about the numerous benefits collagen can offer, from boosting skin elasticity to supporting joint health.
But did you know that the timing of when you take collagen can influence how effectively it works for you? Let’s explore the best time to take collagen drinks so you can get the most out of this powerful supplement.
What is Collagen and Why Should You Take It?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, providing structure to your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
As we age, our body’s natural collagen production slows down, leading to signs of aging like wrinkles, joint pain, and reduced skin elasticity. That’s where collagen drinks come in—they provide a convenient way to replenish this vital protein and support overall health.
The Best Time to Take Collagen: Morning, Afternoon, or Night?
The timing of collagen consumption can vary depending on your specific health goals, but research and expert opinions point to some key times when collagen might be most effective. Let’s break down the different options:
1. Morning: Start Your Day with a Boost
Taking collagen first thing in the morning can kickstart your body’s repair process after a night of rest. Your body naturally undergoes cell repair during sleep, and providing it with collagen in the morning can give your body the building blocks it needs for skin regeneration and joint recovery. Additionally, collagen in the morning can help you feel fuller longer if you mix it into a smoothie or coffee, which may help with weight management.
2. Pre-Workout: Strengthen Joints and Muscles
If you’re using collagen to support joint health, taking it before a workout may be beneficial. Collagen supports the structure of tendons and ligaments, which means consuming it before exercise can help reduce the risk of injury and improve performance. The amino acids in collagen, particularly glycine and proline, can also contribute to muscle repair and recovery after physical activity.
3. Post-Workout: Support Recovery
After a workout, your body is in a state of recovery, and this is a prime time to supply it with the collagen it needs. Consuming collagen post-workout may enhance muscle recovery and promote the rebuilding of damaged tissues. If you’re focused on improving skin elasticity, taking collagen right after exercise can also help repair and rebuild collagen fibers in the skin that may have been broken down during intense physical activity.
4. Night: Maximize Absorption During Sleep
Taking collagen before bed can also have its advantages. During sleep, your body works on repairing and regenerating cells, and providing collagen during this time can ensure it’s used effectively. Plus, collagen may promote better sleep itself by increasing the levels of glycine, an amino acid that has been shown to improve sleep quality. If you take collagen in the evening, your body will have a long stretch of time to absorb and utilize the nutrients while you rest.
COLLAGEN — What Is It & What Is collagen Good For? | Doctor ER
Video by Doctor ER
How Much Collagen Should You Take?
While the timing of collagen intake is important, so is the dosage. Most studies recommend taking 2.5 to 15 grams of collagen per day, depending on your goals. For skin benefits, a lower dose of around 2.5 grams may be sufficient, while higher doses may be necessary for joint . Be sure to follow the recommended dosage on the collagen product you are using.
Lykkers, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best time to take collagen drinks—it depends on your specific health goals. Whether you prefer to take it in the morning, before or after a workout, or at night, the key is consistency. Collagen can work wonders for your body, but it’s most effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle and proper timing.
