SINGAPORE — Behold the marketing claims that say collagen broth or the “beauty hot pot” will give a youthful glow to your face and prevent wrinkles or the loss of elasticity to your skin. No matter how enticing it is, as a consumer, you need to know the science behind how it works, so that you understand what happens as you watch that translucent jelly-like collagen melt in the pot or swirl in your bubble tea. Collagen-infused food items continue to flood the market here — from personalities putting their names behind collagen soup mixes to hawkers selling collagen porridge or food prepared in collagen gravy, and stores stocking collagen broth in frozen packs and even collagen "hot pot" instant noodles.
A nutritionist, dietician and dermatologist explained how collagen really works, what to look out for as buyers, and gave tips on what else you can do to improve your skincare. What is collagen Collagen is a type of protein that the human body produces naturally using amino acids from protein-rich or collagen-rich food such as bone broth, fish and meat. It makes up 65 per cent of the total protein found in the body.
As the largest protein, collagen is a chain of more than 1,500 amino acids. It is found in skin, hair, nails, tendons, cartilage and bones. Collagen works with other substances to maintain skin elasticity, volume and moisture.
It also helps make up proteins such as keratin that form skin, hair and nails. Dr Edwin Lim, medical director of Edwin Lim Medical A.
