ABSTRACT
Collagen has been reported to be one of the most beneficial supplements for health. In this chapter, we will expand on this idea by explaining how collagen is naturally formed, including what its components are and why they are important to its function, and its uses in the body to show why collagen supplementation can be helpful. After this we will discuss the benefits of collagen peptides in detail exploring the different body systems that they effect, and conversely, we will discuss the complications associated with not being able to properly produce collagen and explore a few of the most relevant collagen-based disease states. Finally, we close with a discussion on the regulation of collagen including the legal, medical and manufacturing restrictions placed on collagen peptide supplements. These will include specific situations as stated by regulatory bodies like the FDA and what leeway health companies are granted under current rules. Additionally, we show what risks lie with the consumer as a “buyer beware” situation when purchasing collagen supplements for personal use.
