Current evidence for use withing Sport
- Although in vivo research remains limited, it has been suggested that collagen supplementation may assist in the prevention and/or treatment of muscle, cartilage, connective and bone tissue injury and/or degenerative disorders.23 A recent case study has shown that the combination of a rehabilitation protocol, including exercise and supplemental collagen protein may help hastened return to play.24 Meanwhile, collagen specific peptides in conjunction with calf-strengthening exercises has been shown to increase functionality and reduce pain during tendinopathy.14 Other investigations have shown a reduction in subjective joint pain25, plus decreased inflammation and muscle damage after strenuous exercise.26
- Collectively, collagen supplementation, and/or the increased availability of AA which predominate in collagen may be beneficial for both the prevention and treatment of injury and degenerative bone and connective tissue disorders. However, the research remains within its’ infancy and more long-term studies are required to determine optimal doses, formulations and contra-indications for use. Thus, the use of collagen as part of an injury-prevention or management protocol should be considered carefully and should be used as an adjunct, not a replacement for traditional well-established processes.
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