Collagen

Many people don't realize they have hypertension, and the condition can cause damage to your body for years before it is discovered.

In a [2009 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19202283/) published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, chicken collagen was given to hypertensive patients for four weeks. A similar [2013 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23563560/) published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry showed that hypertensive patients who were given collagen showed a reduction in arterial stiffness and an increase in nitric oxide, a compound that enhances blood flow. [ American Heart Association](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/1998/08/980817081222.htm)). A [2018 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29337906/) published in Nutrients also suggested collagen improves bone density. Research has shown that some people with hypertension have elevated levels of collagen in their blood (via the As of now, the best treatment for hypertension remains a change in diet and lifestyle and, when warranted, [ Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20045868)). However, only one in four of adults who live with hypertension have the condition under control (via the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/facts.htm)). [2017 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28786550/) published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology suggests that collagen supplements may help improve brittle nails, while a [2019 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835901/) published in Nutrients indicates it might support skin elasticity. It plays a number of different roles, including helping to replace dead skin cells, giving your skin elasticity, and helping your blood clot (via the [High blood pressure](https://www.healthdigest.com/621474/high-blood-pressure-explained-causes-symptoms-and-treatments/) (hypertension) affects nearly half of adults in the United States, putting them at risk for heart disease, stroke, and a wide range of other ailments. When you have hypertension, that pressure increases and can lead to artery damage and a host of other ailments.