What Are the Benefits of a Collagen Powder Drink?

Popular in Japan, collagen powder drinks claim to promote youthful skin by encouraging the production of collagen and elastin, two naturally occurring proteins that diminish as skin ages. Collagen drink manufacturers claim that regular consumption of collagen helps maintain skin firmness.

Ingredients

Collagen powder drinks are typically composed of animal protein---bovine, pig or fish---with added Vitamin-C or other supplements.

Suggested Use

Users of collagen powder drinks are instructed to blend a scoop of powder with juice or water and drink once per day.

Price

As of 2010, a 60-packet box of Toki collagen drink powder costs around $140 via online retailers.

Effectiveness

While medical experts acknowledge the importance of protein in the diet, many note there is no proof that ingesting collagen results in smoother skin. According to Ray Sahelian, M.D., research does not indicate that consuming collagen can treat medical conditions or retard skin aging.

Risks

While there are no known medical risks associated with consuming collagen, it can be an expensive investment for a product that has no proven benefit to the skin.

References

• Dr. Ray Sahelian
• Independent: "Japan Finds Collagen More Than Skin Deep"
• New York Times: "Prettier With Every Sip?"