#AgingInThailand

Collagen supplements — powders and tablets made from the processed skin, bones, and connective tissues of cows or fish — have become a global sensation, embraced by athletes for joint health and by beauty enthusiasts hoping for youthful skin and shiny hair. But does the latest research support the promises splashed across glossy packaging? A swath of new studies and expert analyses suggest the answers are nuanced, with some modest benefits but many marketing exaggerations, especially for the Thai public seeking reliable health advice.

The collagen supplement phenomenon has captivated Thai consumers with promises of eternal youth and perfect skin, transforming a protein derivative from animal bones and connective tissues into the kingdom’s most sought-after beauty and wellness product. From gleaming Bangkok shopping malls to rural pharmacies, collagen powders and pills promise miraculous transformations that tap into deeply held Thai cultural values about appearance, health, and graceful aging—but groundbreaking new research reveals a complex truth that challenges both marketing claims and consumer expectations.

A groundbreaking study from Harvard researchers has highlighted a novel approach to fighting cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease—one that does not require physical exertion but instead targets specific genes in the brain to replicate the beneficial effects of exercise. This research opens new avenues for treatments, particularly for those unable to engage in regular physical activity due to frailty or advanced symptoms.

Cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease remain pressing public health challenges globally, including in Thailand where a rapidly aging society faces rising rates of dementia. Traditionally, regular physical activity such as aerobic exercise has been strongly linked to slower cognitive deterioration and improved brain health. However, as experts note, many elderly patients—especially in the later stages of cognitive disorders—find it increasingly difficult to maintain an active lifestyle. This reality has driven scientists to explore the genetic and molecular pathways triggered by exercise, aiming to offer the same neuroprotective benefits via medical interventions.