Collagen Supplements
Collagen is an insoluble protein that plays a crucial role in the human body. It is the main building block of bones, joints, tendons, skin, hair, and nails, ensuring their strength and elasticity. Between the ages of 20 and 30, the body's natural collagen production begins to decline, leading to decreased skin elasticity, worsening hair and nail quality, and increased joint discomfort.
You can replenish collagen in the body through regular consumption of bone broths, meat, fish, seafood, or egg whites. Supplements with collagen are a great alternative, and vitamin C can also help boost collagen production, as it plays a key role in collagen synthesis in the body.
Picking the Right Collagen Supplement
There are various types of collagen that are essential for the body. Most supplements contain Type I collagen, which makes up 90% of the body's collagen and is found in the skin, bones, and tendons. Type II collagen is also important, as it forms cartilage.
Collagen Forms
The form of collagen is an important criterion when choosing a supplement, as it varies in processing and effectiveness in the body:
- Hydrolysed collagen is made by enzymatically breaking down collagen into shorter chains called collagen peptides, which are more easily absorbed. Hydrolysed collagen serves as a building material for certain proteins and collagen.
- Native collagen represents the natural form of collagen found in the body. It works against biological processes that inhibit collagen production and is used for certain joint diseases.
- Gelatine is obtained by cooking raw collagen and, like collagen peptides, is a denatured form of collagen. Gelatine is used in desserts but is not ideal as a collagen supplement due to its low bioavailability.
Collagen Sources
Collagen supplements can also be chosen based on their source. The most common sources include pork, beef, and fish collagen, which differ in structure and composition:
- Porcine and bovine collagen are usually derived from the skin of pigs or cows. Due to their higher molecular weight, they are less easily absorbed compared to marine collagen. However, they contain higher levels of proline, an amino acid that supports collagen's strength, making them more suitable for joint supplements.
- Marine collagen is made from shellfish, fish skin, and scales. It is more easily absorbed than porcine or bovine collagen and contains a higher proportion of Type I collagen, making it a great beauty supplement for skin, hair, and nails.
How to Take Collagen Supplements?
To see positive effects, collagen should be taken for at least 8‑12 weeks. For hydrolysed collagen, a daily dose of 2.5 g is recommended, varying by source and purpose, so it’s important to follow the specific instructions provided. For native collagen, a dose of 10‑40 mg per day is typical. Unflavoured collagen supplements can have a mild aftertaste, but this can be masked by mixing collagen into tea, coffee, juice, or smoothies.
Collagen supplements are available on their own (usually as a powder or capsules) or as part of comprehensive supplements. From our range, you can try Grass‑Fed Collagen Peptides, 100% bovine hydrolysed collagen, Joint Support for comprehensive joint health, or Collagen Complex to support the health of your skin, hair, and nails.