Let’s talk collagen - the powerhouse protein that peacefully works behind the scenes to keep us looking and feeling our best. It’s like the fundamental scaffolding of our body, ensuring our skin stays firm, hair remains shiny, nails stay strong, and our joints move without that creaky door sound. So, what’s the bad news you might ask? As we age, roughly from 25 onwards, our collagen production naturally declines by 1% to 2% each year, leaving us with those unwelcome signs of ageing.
Fear not! There is some good news on the horizon: collagen supplements! These wonders have skyrocketed in popularity over the past decade, offering a solution for everything from glowing skin to smoother mobility. Whether you’re drawn to ever-reliable marine collagen (fish collagen), collagen peptides serum, bovine collagen (meat-based collagen), or even collagen supplements for hair, there’s an abundance of options to choose from.
I’m here to share my experience around ins and outs of collagen supplements - the benefits, the types, and how to choose wisely with a bit of wit and wisdom to keep things engaging. After all, who said ageing gracefully couldn’t be a little fun and a lot informed?
Why Collagen?
Let’s go back to basics before we commence down the collagen brick road! Our skin is the largest organ in the human body, and collagen is a protein that represents up to three-quarters of it. The dermis is the thickest layer of the skin and is composed of fibrous and elastic tissues, with its primary goal being to support your skin’s overall health. Fibroblasts are cells found in the dermis and are responsible for producing collagen.
Collagen is the building block of many bodily systems, accounting for nearly one-third of the body’s protein. It ensures skin remains elastic and hydrated, joints function smoothly, and muscles and connective tissues maintain their strength. The body naturally produces collagen, but by the mid-20s, this production starts to decline. Environmental factors such as UV exposure, smoking, and poor diet further accelerate this reduction.
The introduction of collagen supplements benefits your routine by helping replenish the lost collagen, helping improve skin texture, stronger hair, healthier joints, and enhanced digestion. Products like collagen peptides benefits the absorption rate within the body, providing noticeable results in a relatively short time.
Key Benefits of Collagen Supplements:
Youthful Skin and Radiance:
One of the most sought-after benefits of collagen supplements is through the ability to improve skin health. Collagen-rich products such as marine collagen for skin and collagen supplements for skin can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve elasticity, and boost hydration levels. Essentially, collagen supplements boots the production of your bodies collagen levels with users often reporting visible improvements in their skin’s glow and firmness within weeks of consistent use.
Stronger Hair and Nails:
Hair loss and brittle nails are common signs of reduced collagen levels. Collagen supplements for hair, such as marine collagen tablets or powders help nourish hair follicles and strengthen nail beds, resulting in healthier growth and reduced breakage. Thinning hair and brittle nails are often associated with aging, as the body’s natural collagen production gradually declines. Studies have explored one of collagen supplements best uses around the potential to support nail health, with findings suggesting improvements in nail strength and reduced brittleness. Collagen provides amino acids, such as proline and glycine, which are important for the production of keratin, the primary protein in hair and nails. For those looking to support hair and nail health, combining collagen supplementation with a balanced diet containing nutrients like biotin, zinc, and vitamin C may be beneficial.
Types of Collagen Supplements:
Collagen Peptides Hydrolysed Collagen (as I’ve heard reference to in the past!)
You probably come across both Collagen Peptides or Hydrolysed Collagen and wonder which one is better? The truth is there’s no difference between them. Collagen peptides and hydrolysed collagen are simply two interchangeable names for the same product. Collagen Peptides are highly bioavailable and easy to digest, collagen peptides are among the most popular collagen supplements on the market. They are hydrolysed, meaning the collagen is broken down into smaller peptides, making them easy for the body to absorb. Products like collagen peptides powder are versatile, allowing you to mix them into smoothies, coffee, or even baked goods for a convenient collagen boost.
Marine Collagen:
Marine collagen (aka fish collagen) is rich in Type I collagen and the most abundant in your skin, bones, and connective tissues. Marine collagen type 1 plays a key role in maintaining skin elasticity, hydration, and overall health. Its smaller peptide size compared to other collagen sources makes marine collagen highly bioavailable, meaning it is easier for the body to absorb and utilise.
Bovine Collagen:
Bovine collagen, derived from cows, is a rich source of both Type I and Type III collagen. Type I collagen primarily supports skin, tendons, and bones, while Type III collagen contributes to the structure of muscles, blood vessels, and the gut.
Marine or Bovine?
Marine collagen is generally considered more bioavailable. This is because marine collagen peptides are smaller in molecular size, making them easier for the body to absorb and utilise. However, Bovine is more widely available and often more cost-effective than marine collagen.
How to Choose the Best Collagen Supplement:
When choosing collagen supplements, it’s important to prioritise high-quality options. Look for products with transparent ingredient lists, certifications, and evidence of thorough testing. Choose brands that source their collagen responsibly and clearly state the type of collagen used, such as marine or bovine. Quality is key to maximising the benefits of your supplement.
Powders or liquids often deliver higher doses than capsules. For example, one Thank Collagen sachet contains 10,000mg of hydrolysed marine collagen, compared to typical marine collagen capsules, which usually provide around 500mg each. To match the dose in a single, Thank Collagen sachet, you’d need approximately 20 capsules - and that’s without factoring in the additional vitamins and minerals included in our formula!
Disclaimer:
Our aim is to provide helpful and informative content, not to advertise specific products or make medical claims. While the benefits of these foods can be part of a healthy lifestyle, it is important to remember that individual results may vary. A balanced diet, combined with professional medical advice, is essential for overall well-being. This article should not be considered a substitute for professional healthcare recommendations. For personalised advice or if you have specific medical conditions, we encourage you to consult with a qualified healthcare provider. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and a healthcare professional can offer guidance tailored to your individual needs. Enjoy incorporating these nutritious foods into your diet, and always seek expert advice for any medical concerns.