What’s the first health benefit you think of when you think of collagen? A) Youthful, glowing skin? B) An epic, muscle-building addition to your protein supplement? C) Good for strong bones and joints? The truth is, collagen does all this (and more!)—but what you may not know is how a premium collagen supplement can support your gut health. We explain…

How does collagen work?

Collagen is found everywhere in your body—your skin, bones, muscles and tendons. In fact, 30% of your body’s protein is collagen. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen. This is why so many people seek to supplement their natural collagen resources with high-quality products. So, how is collagen processed in your body?

• When you consume a collagen supplement it passes through your stomach and is broken down into amino acids.
• These amino acids pass through your small intestine and are transported to tissues throughout your body.
• When they reach your gut, the amino acids help line your gut—supporting, maintaining and repairing your gut lining, improving your gut barrier and digestion.

5 ways collagen helps your gut

So, why is the gut so important to our overall health? If you’ve ever felt bloated, clogged up, run down or like you’re not getting the best out of your healthy diet and lifestyle, it’s worth looking at your gut health. The gut wears many hats to support your body and supplementing with collagen can do wonders.

1. Microbiome health: Your gut microbiome is intricately connected to your overall health. A healthy microbiome is made up of a diversity of microorganisms and bacteria. Collagen can support the growth of good bacteria in your gut—helping the microbiome to thrive and do its critical work for your body.
2. Immune system: Your gut plays a critical role in protecting your body from infection and harmful pathogens via the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT)—one of the largest immune systems in your body.
3. Digestive system: The amino acids, proline and glycine , help your gut produce stomach acids and digestive enzymes—and these help you absorb all the amazing nutrients your body needs from your diet. Glycine can also help ease digestive inflammation; something you might experience with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
4. Hormonal balance: The gut and brain are connected via a complex network of neurotransmitters. As a result, we have a natural two-way communication between our hormones and gut health. The optimal outcome: a healthy gut that supports better mood regulation and mental health.

The Kings of Collagen

That’s what we call ourselves at ATP Science. Big call, right? But we own it because we know that all health starts with the gut. We’ve made a name for ourselves around the world with our premium collagen protein products. The best collagen available on the market for your body is called BodyBalance collagen. You can learn a little more about Bodybalance here! When selecting a collagen to use, please look out for the BodyBalance collagen.

Got health goals? Start with your gut!

Once you have your gut in prime condition, everything else follows. Beyond collagen, we also provide a range of gut-supporting products that are designed by our team of scientists to enhance muscle gain, fat loss, hormone balance, sleep and recovery, cellular energy and stress management. So if you want to invest in your health, strength and fitness, do the smart thing and start with your gut. And if you ever need more info, the ATP team is here to help!