Collagen supplements are a hot topic right now, and for good reason. So what is collagen? And of course, what are the health benefits of collagen? Collagen is an amazing nutrient which helps to optimise overall health and provide essential amino acids responsible for healthy joints and skin elasticity.
It's a bit of a hero product in beauty circles at the moment because of its power to help fight ageing. People are turning to it to help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
But not all collagen supplements are created equal. Collagen can be sourced from cows (bovine), fish (marine) or even chicken. We talk you through the types available, which one is best as well as the many health benefits of collagen.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the body. There are 28 different types of collagen, with type I, II, and III being the most common. Together, these three types of collagen are responsible for the health of your skin, hair, bones, teeth, tendons, ligaments and organs (types I), your cartilage (type II), and your muscles and blood vessels (type III).
What are the health benefits of collagen?
Collagen is big news in the beauty world right now but why? Just what are the health benefits of collagen? More and more people are now supplementing with collagen supplement powders and tablets because of the many associated health benefits, such as improved skin health (in particular, better elasticity and a reduction in wrinkles), thicker hair, longer nails and stronger bones. It has been shown to support muscle repair too.
It's important that you are obtaining enough dietary collagen through your diet to support your overall health, especially to contribute towards healthy ageing. As we age our natural collagen levels decline, starting in our 20s. Supplementing with collagen peptides, can help to keep your collagen levels at a healthy level.
Where is Collagen found?
Collagen peptides are made from cattle (bovine), pigs (porcine), chicken, or fish (marine). Each type has their own unique health advantages. The collagen comes from the skin, scales (fish) or bones of the animal depending on what type of collagen you have decided to use.
The Main Types Of Collagen Supplements
Marine
Marine collagen is a dietary supplement made by extracting collagen from the bones, skin or scales of fish. It is comprised of mostly type I collagen - the main collagen found in the human body. Marine collagen is similar in size to human collagen. This means it can be more bioavailable and easy to absorb into key areas of the body such as skin, hair, bones, teeth, tendons, ligaments and organs.
It has a smaller molecular structure which some believe can be easier to digest. This may be beneficial to those who may be taking collagen for digestive associated issues for example leaky gut.
Bovine
Bovine collagen is made by extracting the collagen from the hide of the cattle and is most commonly found in a powdered form. When searching for a bovine collagen, we would recommend sourcing a good quality product where the cattle have been grass-fed and have not exposed to antibiotics, hormones or pesticides. This is important!
The main difference between marine and bovine collagen is the types of collagen they contain; Bovine collagen is mainly comprised of type I and type III collagen which are both abundant in the human body. Whereas type I is more prevalent in marine collagen.
How to Use Collagen:
So we've looked at what is collagen and the health benefits of collagen. Now on to how to use it! It is available in both tablet form and powders, depending on the type and brand. Collagen powders are very easy to add into the diet. Try adding it to hot or cold drinks, soups or stews. Check out our range of collagen supplements available in store and online.
Please note, this blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice.
It’s always best to consult your doctor before taking any new supplements, treatments or remedies if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.
Checked and updated: 22 August 2021
