Collagen is a structural protein found in connective tissues including bone, skin, cartilage, and tendons. Collagen peptides are fragments of a larger protein chain that are easier for humans to digest and absorb. It has been proposed that ingesting collagen from outside sources would support and maximise our health while also addressing physiological requirements brought on by ageing and activity. However, you may hear more about collagen supplements in the beauty industry for their skincare benefits—research has shown that taking a collagen supplement may help improve skin moisture, elasticity, roughness, and density.
Some of the best Collagen supplements are listed here.
Collagen Peptides from Vital Proteins
Vital Proteins takes great care in getting its bovine collagen peptides. The cows used to make their collagen peptides were grown according to the Global Animal Partnership’s 5-step animal welfare grading guidelines, which is a crucial feature to look for when buying protein powders that include animal products. In addition to grass-fed bovine collagen, Vital Proteins incorporates Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule that assists in collagen development, in their powder.
Benefits:
- Vitamin C has been added.
- Collagen is promoted by hyaluronic acid in the body.
- High requirements for animal welfare.
Reserveage Collagen Booster
The major component of the Reserveage Ultra Collagen Booster is BioCell Collagen. BioCell Collagen is a proprietary hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage extract that comprises a naturally occurring matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type II, as well as chondroitin sulphate and hyaluronic acid, all of which are naturally occurring compounds in the body that support healthy tissues. Reserveage supplements each capsule with a proprietary combination of fruit and vegetable extracts, including Acerola Cherry, Asparagus, and Pomegranate, which have been studied for their potential to help maintain skin elasticity. Gluten, maize, dairy, preservatives, soy, sugar, and wheat are all absent from this product.
Benefits:
- Supports the body’s collagen production.
- Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables are beneficial to skin health.
- Most common allergies are absent.
Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Peptides Protein Powder Pure
Ancient Nutrition’s Multi Collagen Protein contains a variety of collagen types derived from a variety of dietary sources. This product uses collagen from cattle, poultry, fish, and eggshell membrane to enhance skin, gastrointestinal, and joint health. If you want a product with just four components and no flavorings or sweeteners, go with the original Multi Collagen Protein.
Benefits:
- Vitamin C and probiotics are included.
- There are five different forms of collagen.
- There are no flavorings or sweeteners in this product.
Great Lakes Gelatin Co Collagen Hydrolysate
Glyphosate-free, USP/NF Compliant, and MSG-free, this product is pareve, gluten-free, non-GMO, keto-certified, Paleo-friendly, Glyphosate-free, and MSG-free. Consumer Labs, a third-party testing organisation, has also awarded this product its seal of approval, confirming that the statements on the container match the actual components.
Benefits:
- Suitable for Keto and Paleo diets.
- Per serving, there is a lot of protein.
- It has no taste or odor.
UC-II Veggie Capsules
A patented form of type II collagen obtained from chicken sternum is used in UC-II. Multiple research investigations have looked into the effectiveness of UC-II in the treatment of joint pain. Researchers looked at the effectiveness of UC-II based on participants’ capacity to extend their knees in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. When compared to placebo, individuals in the UC-II group showed a statistically significant improvement in average knee extension after 120 days of supplementation.
Benefits:
- Support for joint pain.
- Increased mobility and flexibility are a plus.
- Vegetarian-friendly.
Thrive Market Chocolate Grass-Fed Collagen Peptides
Thrive Market is known for employing high-quality products, and their Collagen Peptides in chocolate flavour is no exception. This supplement contains collagen from grass-fed and pasture-raised cows and has a deep, pleasant taste thanks to organic cocoa powder, organic vanilla flavour, and monk fruit extract. It’s popular in smoothies, coffee, and overnight oats, according to customers. This powder, in addition to giving a dose of collagen, is a terrific way to add 10 grams of protein to shakes and meals.
Benefits:
- Per serving, there is a lot of protein.
- There are no added sugars.
- There are no preservatives in this product.
Collagen Supplements: What to Look for?
Type
Collagen comes in a variety of forms, however, there are three that are often utilised. Types 1 and 3 are utilised to promote skin suppleness and health, whilst type 2 is used to promote cartilage and joint health. Select a kind that meets your requirements.
Source
Collagen comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to consume it. It may be found in a variety of places, including bovine, poultry, fish, and eggshells. Unfortunately, there isn’t a vegan collagen source accessible. Look for grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen or collagen derived from wild-caught marine sources to guarantee you’re receiving a high-quality product.
Flavor
Some collagen supplements are tasteless, while others are available in a range of tastes. Consider how you’ll utilise the supplement when picking a taste.
Form
The distribution mechanism and dosage are the main distinctions between a collagen powder and a collagen supplement. Pill-based collagen supplements are simply capsules packed with powdered collagen.
However, the serving size of capsule collagen is frequently smaller than that of powdered collagen; it usually takes many capsule servings to match the dosage of one powdered collagen meal. For others, this may be a problem or something they don’t want. If you have difficulties swallowing capsules or want a higher dosage of collagen at once, powdered collagen is the way to go. The powdered version is very simple to integrate into your daily routine, like in your coffee or morning smoothie. However, if you prefer the ease of taking a capsule with a glass of water and calling it a day, and you do not need higher doses of collagen, the pill form may be a better fit for you.
Potential Allergies
Collagen supplements should be avoided by anyone who is allergic to fish, shellfish, or eggs since many of them include these substances. Collagen supplements have been reported to create moderate digestive issues or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Because dietary supplements, like collagen, are not regulated by the FDA, it’s important to discuss supplement labelling with your doctor.