Faster recovery, pain management: Why elite athletes are using collagen

In recent years, the use of collagen by elite athletes has gained traction. Initially marketed by skincare companies, collagen has been touted as a miracle ingredient for youthful skin. However, athletes are now harnessing the benefits of collagen, not for wrinkle-free skin, but for improved performance on the field.

Wayne Lombard, the head of athletic performance for India's women's hockey team, acknowledges that while the science is still evolving, athletes use collagen supplements for a slight improvement (1-3%) in joint regeneration, particularly in ligaments, menisci, and labrums. These areas of the body have limited blood supply, making collagen supplementation beneficial for these athletes.

Collagen supplements are not solely for injury prevention or recovery. The South African athlete and consultant, Wayne Lombard, explains that these supplements help strengthen soft tissues, reducing the risk of both overuse and acute injuries. He further notes that collagen aids in blood flow, which is crucial for healing.

At the Inspire Institute of Sport in Karnataka, a team of high-performance athletes undergo training. However, the institute's approach is more centered around a "food first" philosophy, encouraging athletes to obtain nutrients from natural sources rather than supplements. Despite this, collagen supplementation is still employed by athletes in disciplines like rowing, swimming, and athletics, especially for those involved in triple jumps.

These sports exert a significant load on the body, making joint health and pain management essential aspects of an athlete's regimen.

Samuel Pullinger, the head of sport science at the institute, reveals that collagen's "golden window" is a crucial aspect of its usage. Ideally, collagen should be taken 45 to 60 minutes before training or a rehabilitation session. This timing is more effective than other prospective timings because it coincides with the presence of amino acids in the bloodstream, maximizing the supplement's benefits.

However, Pullinger cautions athletes against viewing collagen as a panacea for athletic performance. He emphasizes that while certain supplements can be highly beneficial, it does not guarantee a sudden leap from 28th place to winning the gold medal.