Question 254 of 433
Are protein powder and collagen worthwhile?
The short answer
Protein powder is a convenience food, and a good one if you struggle to reach your target. Collagen has modest evidence for skin and joints and is a poor protein for building muscle.
Whey is the best studied for muscle. Pea and soy blends work for those who avoid dairy. Choose a third-party tested product, since some powders have been found to contain heavy metals. Collagen at 10 to 15 grams a day may slightly improve skin elasticity and joint comfort; expectations should be modest.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ROBUST HUMAN TRIALS for adequate protein and muscle; LIMITED for collagen-related skin or joint benefits.Evidence grade (draft mapping)ARobust human trialsBLimited or small human studiesPart 17, Q254 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.