By 60, most women have joint pain. The wear and tear of life may be catching up with us and hormone changes make things worse. However, a common cause of painful movement is loss of collagen.
The Arthritis Foundation describes collagen as glue. It holds us together. After 40, we lose about 1% of our collagen every year. Also, our bodies don't make collagen well when we get older, especially after menopause.
Type 2 collagen makes up most of our cartilage--that's the strong, flexible material that cushions and lines our joints. It's especially strong in our spine. When cartilage breaks or wears away, simple movement becomes stiff or painful. We call that arthritis.
Taking collagen is a good long-term solution. At least one study concluded that taking UC-II, a safe form of type 2 collagen at 40 mg daily with chondroitin reduces joint pain and stiffness. The evidence is strong enough that the Arthritis Foundation advises..."Think of collagen supplements as a life-time commitment. As you get older, your body gobbles collagen up just as fast or faster than you can replace it." *
I don't take many supplements but because I have arthritis, collagen is at the top of my list. I use Healthy Origins Type II Collagen (not a paid endorsement). It contains ingredients recommended by the Arthritis Foundation and approved by Consumer Lab, an independent lab that evaluates supplements.
Two years ago, I considered having a knee replacement. I was in pain all the time, had torn the cartilage in my knee in two places. Since then, I rarely have knee pain and am able to do most activities. This is due to physical therapy, regular exercise, occasional anti-inflammatory medication and...collagen.
Time to have fun!
-- Robyn
*https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/supplements-and-vitamins/can-collagen-supplements-help-arthritis