Let's Dive into the Effectiveness of Collagen for Weight Loss
Collagen-fortified protein bars as a potential weight loss aid: Evaluating their efficacy.
Spanish researchers have taken a closer look at collagen as a weight-loss aid, and their findings might blow your mind!
In a study that followed two groups for 12 grueling weeks, one group received collagen-based protein bars, while the other did not. And guess what? The group that received the collagen supplement lost twice as much weight as their unlucky counterparts!
With the increasing number of people struggling with obesity, scientists are on a constant hunt for effective weight loss solutions. While GLP-1 drugs exist, they're not exactly wallet-friendly.
So, the researchers decided to investigate the humble collagen supplement. It's relatively inexpensive, and since collagen can help improve joint health, build muscle mass, and enhance skin elasticity, it seemed like a promising avenue to explore.
The researchers gathered 64 adults with BMI levels ranging from overweight to class 1 obesity. They were asked to follow a diet similar to the Mediterranean diet, focusing on healthy whole foods.
The test group (32 people) was given a protein bar to eat twice daily. These bars contained 10 grams of bovine-based collagen. The control group, on the other hand, did not receive any placebo bars and only focused on eating the dietary suggestions.
The control group consumed around 2000 calories per day, while the test group consumed slightly more due to the protein bars.
The participants attended multiple screening appointments where they provided their weight, blood pressure, blood samples, and urine and fecal samples. They also filled out questionnaires about their food intake and appetite.
Greater weight loss with collagen
The results of this study are exciting for weight loss enthusiasts. The collagen group not only lost more weight but also showed improvements in cardiometabolic health!
The collagen group lost an average of 6.6 pounds, while the control group only managed to shed 3.3 pounds. The test group also experienced larger drops in systolic blood pressure, waist circumference, BMI, and fat mass.
The test group participants had a higher fat-free mass at the end of the study, which is a big plus as muscle loss is a common concern with weight loss. Furthermore, the test group reported reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness, which persisted throughout the study.
Collagen: Not Just a Magic Pill
While the study results are promising, it's important to remember that collagen is not a magic solution to weight loss.
Mir Ali, a board-certified general surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center, suggested that more research is needed to understand the full impact of collagen on weight loss.
However, Dr. Ali emphasized that collagen supplements are generally safe. Possible side effects may include a bloating sensation, which could be more pronounced for those with poor gastric motility.
So, there you have it! Collagen supplements might just be the cost-effective, weight-loss aid you've been waiting for. But, remember to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes. After all, a balanced diet and regular exercise remain the golden keys to a healthy lifestyle!
- The effectiveness of collagen as a weight-loss aid has been examined by Spanish researchers, finding that those consuming collagen-based protein bars lost twice as much weight compared to those who didn't.
- As the number of people dealing with obesity continues to rise, scientists are constantly searching for economical weight loss solutions like collagen supplements.
- Collagen supplements not only have potential for weight loss but also contribute to joint health, muscle mass, and skin elasticity.
- In a study with 64 overweight to class 1 obese participants, one group received a collagen-enriched protein bar twice daily, while the other group did not.
- The health-and-wellness benefits of collagen extend beyond weight loss, as it showed improvements in cardiometabolic health, including lower systolic blood pressure and reduced fat mass.
- Collagen, however, should not be considered a magic pill for weight loss, as more research is needed to fully understand its impact and to ensure long-term health-and-wellness benefits. Always consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes.
