How To Choose The Right Collagen For You
Posted by Danielle K on
Source: webbernaturals.com
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. It is a type of protein that plays a role in strengthening your skin and provides added elasticity and hydration. As you age, your body produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles. Since the body’s collagen production begins to decline around the age of 30, supplementation plays an important role in maintaining healthy levels.
How do collagen peptides work?
Technically speaking, collagen peptides are hydrolyzed, bioavailable collagen protein that you can take to supplement your body’s natural production of collagen. Translation – collagen peptides are very small pieces of collagen that are easily digested and utilized by the body. They work on replenishing the collagen we lose naturally by being shipped to the areas that need it most.
What type of collagen supplement is best for skin?
When it comes to which collagen type is best for skin, look for a collagen that has been clinically studied, so it has the scientific research to back the claims. For example, Collagen30 is made with collagen peptides that are clinically shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles in less than 30 days.[1,2]
Source: Webber Naturals
Tablets, gummies, or powder? Does the format matter?
When it comes to the effectiveness of a collagen supplement, there is no difference between delivery forms. It really is a personal preference if you want to use a tablet, drink your collagen using a powdered source, or even enjoy a delicious gummy as long as you are able to follow the recommended dose and meet your daily needs. Here are some pros and cons to help you choose which is best for you:
No matter how you take your collagen, you’ll be getting the same amino acids. It’s completely up to you!
The difference between bovine and marine collagen – Which should you choose?
The deciding factor comes down to personal preferences, dietary restrictions, and even health concerns like allergies. Marine collagen contains mostly type 1 collagen. It is smaller in size than bovine source, and therefore, may be slightly more bioavailable. Bovine collagen comes from cows and contains mostly type 1 and type 3 collagen. Both sources are rich in amino acids and have proven health benefits for skin and joint health.
When is the best time to take collagen?
Currently, there is no research to support that taking collagen at a certain time of day will give you the greatest results. Some people swear by taking collagen in the morning on an empty stomach to achieve maximum absorption. In theory, you need stomach acid to digest proteins, thereby supporting this method. On the other hand, other people choose to take collagen at night so that your body can fully digest and absorb the collagen while you sleep. Again, it comes down to personal preference.
How much collagen to take?
For best results, make sure that you follow the recommendation on the label. Based on clinical research, taking 2500 mg of bioactive collagen peptides (Verisol®) or 2000 mg of marine collagen (Collactive™) can result in significant reductions in eye wrinkles in in less than 30 days. [1,2,3]
Joyce Johnson ND (Inactive)
Dr. Joyce Johnson is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and natural health and lifestyle expert with 18 years of experience in the natural medicine field.