By now, you already know about how collagen can improve skin health and joint health.
Now you're ready to start including this unique supplement in your diet for all it's incredible health benefits.
Naturally, you have plenty of questions.
What's the best way to take collagen?
Is there a certain time of day it's best to take collagen?
In this post, we'll try to answer all your burning questions about adding collagen protein to your routine.
What are the Different Types of Collagen Peptides?
Often called the "glue" that holds everything in the body together, collagen is a protein packed with amino acids. Your muscles consist of about 10% collagen protein and every cell in your body needs collagen to function: it's the most abundant protein in the body! Unfortunately, collagen production slows with age, so dietary supplements are important for keeping skin health, joint health, and bone health. In general, you want to choose hydrolyzed collagen peptides because they're easier for your body to process and use effectively. You'll find hydrolyzed collagen peptides in a few forms:- Collagen powder (like protein powder for smoothies)
- Capsules filled with collagen powder
- Collagen pills
- Topical collagen serums for skin health
- Collagen drink mixes
2 Types of Collagen
Beyond the forms of collagen powder mentioned above, collagen can also come from different animals. Marine collagen comes from the connective tissue of fish and other marine life. Meanwhile, grass-fed bovine collagen comes from cattle connective tissue. While they're similar, each type of collagen has a slightly different amino acid structure. Some argue that marine collagen is the better choice because it's easier for the body to absorb. Plus, fish parts go to waste all the time so marine collagen can be better for the environment too in that respect. At the same time, marine collagen can taste fishy sometimes if a reputable company does not make it. What's the best collagen supplement? The bottom line is that collagen is collagen to your body. Whether you choose grass-fed bovine or marine collagen isn't important. What's important is that you take collagen proteins daily to enjoy all the awesome benefits. Keep in mind that collagen can be keto-friendly (just make sure not to overdo it on protein powder). You can also find kosher and halal collagen supplements. However, collagen cannot be vegan because it's made from animal connective tissues.What are the Health Benefits of Collagen Supplements?
Hydrolyzed collagen supplies numerous health benefits. Remember that every cell in your body needs collagen to function. For this reason, collagen can help you age gracefully and avoid things like joint pain.Reducing Wrinkles
Studies routinely show that supplementing collagen powder can reduce fine lines and wrinkles in women. (1)
Remember that collagen production slows with age and skin elasticity is the first place you'll notice this.
Add some collagen supplements to your diet and enjoy healthy skin.
Supporting Healthy Bones and Joint Health
Forget glucosamine and chondroitin which there's no actual evidence to back up the claim that they support healthy joints or reduce joint pain. Collagen, on the other hand, has plenty of studies backing up the claim that it can support connective tissue inside your body in places like your knees, elbows, and shoulders. (2)Healthy Hair
For men, it's important to keep your scalp healthy to avoid age-related hair loss.
Fortunately, collagen can do just that!
Women can reap the benefits of collagen supplements too with shiny healthy hair! (3)
Gut Health
Although there isn't a ton of evidence to back up this claim just yet, many swear that collagen peptides can improve gut health and reduce symptoms of leaky gut syndrome. If this is your goal, it's probably best to try taking collagen on an empty stomach for a few weeks and see if you notice any improvement. The good news is that if people claim collagen benefits gut health, you probably won't notice any worsening symptoms so it can't hurt to give it a shot!What's the Best Way to Take Collagen Peptides?
Since collagen powder is flavorless, it's easy to add it to your daily routine however you see fit!
We recommend mixing your collagen peptides into your favorite smoothie.
However, you have a few options:
- Mix-in your morning coffee
- Add to stews and soups
- Include in your favorite smoothie or drink
What's the Best Time to Take Collagen Powder?
There's no concrete evidence stating whether or not you should take collagen protein in the morning on an empty stomach or at night.
Instead, we recommend finding a time that works for you.
Again, it's most important that you consume collagen every day so you can enjoy the most benefits.
To do that, you should figure out a schedule.
What’s the best way to take collagen?
Is it easier to remember to take it first thing in the morning with your post-workout protein smoothie? Do that.
Do you find it easier to take your collagen at night with tea or soup? Great!
Some also swear that you need to consume vitamin C with your collagen powder.
It's true that vitamin C will improve collagen production inside your body, but it's really not necessary to include it with your daily dose of protein powder.
