Collagen-infused protein bars potentially aid in weight management.
Revised Article:
A Fresh Look at Collagen as a Weight Loss Aid
Wrestling with the soaring numbers of overweight and obese individuals in the US, scientists have been on a mission to discover effective weight loss solutions. Many popular options, like GLP-1 drugs, can be pricey for many folk. That's why researchers decided to delve deeper into the humble collagen supplement.
Collagen, being relatively affordable, proved to be an intriguing option for weight loss. The protein, found in human and animal connective tissue, is easily accessible in pill or powder form, often derived from cows or pigs.
Known for its benefits in joint health, muscle mass, and even skin elasticity, collagen is gaining attention as a prospective weight loss tool. Researchers in a recent study aimed to see how incorporating collagen into one's diet would influence weight loss compared to a control group.
Overall, 64 adults with BMIs ranging from overweight to class 1 obesity were recruited. All participants followed a diet similar to the Mediterranean diet, focusing on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and fish and poultry.
The test group consisted of 32 individuals who received protein bars to eat twice a day. These 90-calorie bars contained 10 grams of bovine-based collagen. The control group did not receive a placebo but focused solely on adhering to the dietary guidelines. As a result, the control group consumed around 2000 calories per day, slightly more than the test group due to the protein bars.
Throughout the study, participants attended several screening appointments to monitor their weight, blood pressure, blood samples, urine, and fecal samples. They also completed questionnaires about their food intake and appetite.
Collagen's Weight Loss Promise
The study produced encouraging results for weight loss enthusiasts. The collagen group not only lost about twice as much weight as the control group—an average of 6.6 pounds compared to 3.3 pounds—they also demonstrated improvements in cardiometabolic health.
While muscle loss during weight loss is a concern, the test group saw an increase in fat-free mass at the end of the study, suggesting muscle gains rather than just fat loss. Participants in the collagen group also reported reduced hunger and an increased feeling of being full due to their protein bars.
The feeling of satiety persisted throughout the study, strengthening the case for using collagen supplements as a cost-effective weight loss strategy.
However, it's important to note that some of the study authors are affiliated with the company that produces the protein bars.
Is Collagen a "Magic Bullet"?
Mir Ali, a board-certified general surgeon and bariatric surgeon, offered his insights to Medical News Today. "This study shows the potential benefits of protein bars with collagen," Ali stated. While he expressed doubts about attributing all the weight loss effects solely to collagen, he acknowledged more research is needed on this topic.
Collagen supplements are generally considered safe, with side effects limited to possible bloating. Hector Perez, lead bariatric surgeon at Renew Bariatrics, agreed, adding that people with kidney disease should approach their collagen intake with care due to theoretical concerns about kidney strain with high protein supplements.
Ultimately, Perez emphasized that, while promising, collagen is not a "magic bullet." Sustainable dietary habits, portion control, and physical activity remain crucial elements in a weight loss journey.
- In the quest to combat obesity and weight loss issues, scientists are investigating the use of collagen supplements, considering their affordability and potential benefits.
- As a protein found in human and animal connective tissue, collagen is becoming notable for its role in weight loss, alongside benefits for joint health, muscle mass, and skin elasticity.
- In a recent study, 64 participants with BMIs ranging from overweight to class 1 obesity were assigned either collagen supplements or a control group, both following a Mediterranean-style diet.
- The collagen group consumed protein bars containing collagen and lost about twice as much weight as the control group, while also demonstrating improvements in cardiometabolic health.
- When considering collagen as a weight loss tool, it's worth noting that some study authors are associated with the company that produces the protein bars, requiring further research for verification.
- Collagen supplements are generally safe, yet they may cause bloating, and individuals with kidney disease should approach their intake cautiously due to potential strain concerns associated with high protein supplements. Despite its promising weight loss benefits, a balanced diet, portion control, and regular physical activity remain critical for a successful weight management strategy.
