New research casts doubt on the idea that collagen peptides reliably increase tendon thickness, a common claim in wellness marketing. In Thailand, where badminton, football, and Muay Thai are popular, many athletes have turned to collagen as a potential shield against injuries. A recent review highlighted by a mainstream health site suggests that thicker tendons may not be a guaranteed outcome of collagen supplementation.
Collagen peptides are marketed as building blocks for connective tissues, skin, and cartilage. In Thai sports culture, supplements are widely used to address joint pain, speed up recovery, and enhance performance. Yet scientific evidence for these benefits—especially the idea that collagen boosts tendon thickness—remains mixed.
A recent peer-reviewed study published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism found no significant difference in tendon thickness between athletes taking collagen peptides and those on placebo during a 12-week resistance-training program. In this double-blind trial with more than 60 participants, both groups showed typical training gains, but collagen did not produce a thicker Achilles tendon.
Experts emphasize that tendon health is multifaceted. A physical therapist at a leading Bangkok hospital notes that tendon composition, collagen fiber alignment, and vascularization matter as much as thickness. Rehabilitation, proper loading, and balanced training are essential components of injury prevention. Another sports nutritionist from a Chiang Mai university adds that while collagen may support connective tissue health, it should not be viewed as a shortcut to thicker, stronger tendons. More region-specific research is needed, particularly among Asian populations with different diets and lifestyles.
Thailand’s supplement market follows global trends, but regulators urge caution. The Thai Food and Drug Administration allows collagen products but warns against exaggerated claims. Public education campaigns have grown as authorities tackle misleading testimonials about miraculous tendon benefits.
Culturally, collagen is tied to beauty and youthfulness in Thailand, driving demand for drinks and powders. Yet for musculoskeletal health, experts advocate a holistic approach: prioritized rehabilitation, progressive resistance training, mobility work, and evidence-based injury prevention strategies. Consumers are advised to seek professional guidance and maintain a balanced diet rich in whole foods—fish, lean meat, eggs, dairy or plant-based proteins, tofu, fruits, and vegetables—to supply essential amino acids and vitamin C for connective tissue health.
Looking ahead, Thai universities and sports teams are collaborating with international partners to explore gene-diet interactions and local training regimens that could influence how collagen is processed in the body. Until region-specific results emerge, the takeaway remains clear: do not rely on supplements alone. Use a comprehensive plan that combines consistent, moderate exercise with expert medical advice and evidence-based rehabilitation.
For everyday readers in Thailand wondering how to protect tendons, the message is practical: supplements play only a minor role, if any. Focus on a well-rounded routine, prioritize recovery, and follow dietary patterns that support overall tissue health. This approach aligns with both traditional Thai wellness values and modern sports science.