New Research Highlights Collagen’s Role in Cognitive Health
Recent studies are beginning to connect the dots between collagen supplementation and improvements in brain function, opening new doors for adult cognitive support. Traditionally known for benefits to skin and joint health, collagen—particularly in its hydrolyzed form—is now being studied for its potential neurological effects.
One pilot study published in Nutrients found that participants who took collagen hydrolysates daily for four weeks showed significant improvements in verbal learning and memory. MRI scans revealed structural changes in brain areas associated with language and cognition (PubMed source).In another small-scale trial, researchers noted reduced sleep fragmentation and better cognitive performance among sleep-disturbed individuals who took collagen before bed (SpringerLink).
Some of this may be due to the presence of Collagen VI in the central nervous system, which has been shown to have neuroprotective properties in degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s (Wikipedia).
While these findings are promising, experts stress that more large-scale, peer-reviewed research is needed before drawing definitive conclusions. Still, the early signs suggest that collagen may soon become a serious consideration for adults seeking to support cognitive performance—especially when paired with other healthy lifestyle habits.