Coleen Rooney has shared the secret to her youthful appearance and it’s a supplement that anyone over 30 might want to consider. The 38-year-old, who is set to join the I’m A Celebrity 2024 camp in Australia later this week, swears by collagen to maintain her ‘flawless’ skin and overall health.
Collagen, which we naturally produce, is essential for our skin, bones, hair and nails. However, production starts to slow down when we approach our thirties.
Many people start supplementing around this time for various health reasons, primarily to protect their skin’s smoothness. Lack of collagen can lead to fine lines and wrinkles as skin loses elasticity and hydration.
It’s also crucial for our nails and hair, so boosting your levels could result in stronger nails and less breakable hair. Research has shown that the benefits of collagen extend beyond skin health.
Some research suggests a correlation between collagen and joint health. Experts found that lower levels could increase the risk of conditions like osteoarthritis, reports the Mirror, with some sufferers claiming that taking the supplement actually helped their existing pains.
One way to enhance your collagen intake is through dietary changes, such as incorporating more fish, eggs, and bone broth into your meals. Alternatively, you can opt for supplements in pill or powder form.
Holland and Barrett offer a pack of 180 Bovine Collagen tablets for £15.39, equating to just 9p per tablet, as an example. Consuming collagen may help maintain your skin’s elasticity, reducing the likelihood of sagging or loose skin.
While there’s no blood test to measure collagen levels, signs of decreasing collagen include wrinkles, crepey or sagging skin, or hollowing around the eyes and face. The NHS advises moderate-intensity exercise, like walking, water aerobics, or cycling, to keep bones healthy.
However, before making significant lifestyle changes, it’s advisable to consult with a professional. Your GP can discuss any potential issues arising from taking specific supplements.
Collagen supplements may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to fish, shellfish, or eggs, or those following a vegetarian, vegan, Kosher, or Halal diet.
It’s crucial to remember that the NHS doesn’t recognise collagen as a medical treatment, so there’s limited knowledge about its potential side effects or long-term risks. Therefore, it should never be used as a replacement for NHS-approved medication prescribed by your GP.
The new series of I’m A Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here starts on Sunday, November 17. Viewers can tune in from 9pm on ITV.