A Deep Look at Collagen

A Deep Look at Collagen

What is collagen?  It is the most abundant structural protein in your body and vital for bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and teeth.  It acts like glue for our joints.  It’s our skin’s strongest ally, working closely with elastin to create resilience and elasticity.  

But, starting in our mid to late twenties, we start to lose one per cent of our collagen every year.   Collagen rich foods include beef, chicken, fish and eggs.  Vitamin C also contributes to normal collagen production in the body.

The key factors that hinder collagen production include smoking, excessive sugar consumption, prolonged sun exposure and environmental pollutants.

What about Collagen supplementation?

The buzzwords around collagen supplements are “peptides” and “hydrolysed” which means the proteins in the powder, liquid or capsules have been broken down to make the collagen more easily digested.  Most collagen powders contain just one ingredient: hydrolysed bovine or marine collagen.  But some supplement companies provide combination products including collagen with other specific skin or joint supports added.

Hydrolysed collagen is also a great option to cook and bake with.  It is thought to be heat stable and won’t gel when combined with liquid making it easy to combine with favourite drinks or recipes.

Marine collagen is a type of collagen protein derived from skin, bones and scales of fish.  It is known for its high bioavailability, meaning it is easily absorbed by the body.  In terms of skin health, it maintains moisture levels in the skin, reducing the appearance of sagging and fine lines.  

If you’re looking for beauty benefits, collagen supplements have shown to enhance skin hydration, promote thicker hair and nurture healthy nails.

Nature’s Plus Collagen Peptides is available in powder and capsule form.  It offers a comprehensive solution to meet the body’s collagen needs as the ingredients are sourced from grass fed beef, wild caught cod, free range chicken and egg shell membrane.  It is dairy, gluten and soy free as well as having no added sugar or sweeteners.  It can be added to hot or cold beverages, like tea, coffee or smoothies.

Somega Collagen Plus is an advanced beauty supplement with a delicious berry taste.  It contains a high amount of marine collagen combined with vitamins and minerals to help nourish skin, hair and nails.  It also has hyaluronic acid added which benefits both skin and joints. This an Irish Brand.

Research also shows that using 20g of a daily collagen peptide supplement may reduce bloating and improve mild digestive symptoms.  

While collagen can be consumed at any time of the day, the key is taking it consistently.