In a new study looking at collagen protein bars as an easy way to help with weight loss, researchers discovered some heartening findings. The study comprised two groups for 12 weeks. While people in one group liked collagen-based protein bars, participants in the other group found collagen protein bars less palatable. Ultimately, the results indicate that those who introduced these bars into their eating patterns experienced greater weight loss. As their progress shows, they reported impressive health improvements.
A total of 32 participants were enrolled in the intervention cohort. They ate the protein bar containing 10 grams of bovine-based collagen in the morning and evening in addition to their normal meals. Every bar felt virtuous, coming in at only 90 calories, with each serving. Participants who got the collagen bars enjoyed a remarkable average weight loss of 6.6 pounds. In comparison, the control group was only able to lose an average of 3.3 pounds.
Interestingly, the test group lost more than just weight as they saw a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure. Their mean values dropped by 8 mm Hg. Conversely, the control group experienced a small increase in systolic blood pressure. In fact, it increased by 0.4 mm Hg between those two time points. These findings further reinforce the potential health benefits of adding collagen protein to a diet.
Collagen supplements have become a hip and happening trend, mainly because they’re relatively affordable and safe for most everyone. Kidney health experts warn that people with pre-existing conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, should take extra care when using these dietary supplements. As for side effects, Dr. Mir Ali said he personally hasn’t seen any serious concerns with collagen supplements. He added that users could feel a bloating effect while the collagen expands after consumption.
According to Dr. Hector Perez, these are some of the most encouraging findings in the study’s unfortunate results. Overall, he encouraged everyone to go into collagen supplementation with reasonable expectations. As a believer in evidence-first approaches, he cautioned, “I would advocate for collagen as an adjunct to a more formal weight-loss plan rather than a singular answer.” He further highlighted that “there’s a theoretical concern about kidney strain in people with impaired renal function if high protein supplements are overused,” although he acknowledged that the study’s dosage of 20 grams per day is moderate.
Dr. Ali spoke highly of the study, referring to it as “a well designed study that demonstrated the possible advantages of protein bars supplemented with collagen.” He warned about over-interpreting any observed effect as being caused by collagen alone. I don’t think we can give all the credit for the effects to collagen. Further, protein-rich meal replacements are important contributors to weight reduction.
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