The Collagen Secret: By now, we know that collagen can not be replaced in the skin through collagen creams. But, for many years, Japanese women have experienced the youth-promoting effects of collagen supplements.
Answered in This Article:
- What are the benefits of eating collagen?
- What are the side effects of eating collagen?
- Which type of collagen will help my skin?
- How is the best way to benefit from collagen?
Type I Collagen: Skin and Bone Health
The skin is the body's largest organ, and is responsible for sensation of temperature, pressure, and multiple other important functions. Type I collagen makes up the majority amount of the skin structure.
As the skin undergoes natural chronological aging, and is attacked through photo-aging, the natural skin structure begins to deteriorate. In short, collagen is lost. Fortunately, lost body collagen stores can be effectively replaced through the right amino-acid supplements.
Supplemental collagen can increase strength around high movement areas of the skin where wrinkles form. It can fortify the skin's structure and result in the strengthening of pore walls, slowing down sagging skin and enlarged pores. Yes, many of the effects of aging on the skin can be slowed with a good tpye I collagen supplement.
Further exciting studies show this type of collagen to be an effective agent against bone loss.
Studies show that the best source of type I collagen comes is marine collagen sourced from fish.
Type II Collagen: Joint Health
Type II collagen applies to joint cartilage and has been very effective with rebuilding and protecting joints from degradation. Type II collagen can be found in marine sources, like sponges, but is most commonly sourced from chicken.
Type II amino acids from collagen is extremely helpful in joint repair and has been used in therapy for joints over many years. Numerous randomized controlled trials have been performed using collagen therapy for joints, and the results showed that collagen supports excellent joint health.
Type III Collagen: Reticular Fibers
A less abundant, yet important type of collagen is type III. Type III collagen is the make up of reticular fibers, connective tissue and organs within the body. In addition to type I collagen, type III plays a large role in gut health. Individuals with "leaky gut" or other gut disorders may find benefit with supplements containing this type of collagen. Type III collagen is most commonly sourced from cows.
Side Effects of Collagen
Most common side effect of collagen:
Lingering taste in the mouth. A small percentage of users report that they get a slight lingering taste in their mouth. It usually subsides within 30-60 minutes.
Side Effect 2:
Decreased appetite. Depending on your particular situation, this could be a side effect or a benefit.
How common are the side effects of collagen supplements?
These side effects are reported by approximately .1% of collagen supplement users. Other than in the case of allergies, the drawbacks, or side effects, of eating collagen appear to be negligible.
Collagen Benefits
While the side effects are limited, the benefits of collagen supplements are vast, since collagen is a key component in the structure of the entire body. A list of common health and beauty benefits of collagen supplements are listed here:
Primary Benefits
Type 1 Collagen
- Improved skin texture and firmness (Average 13% reduction in wrinkles).
- Reduced appearance of cellulite
- Stronger hair and nail growth (After approximately 3 months)
- Slowed bone loss
- Improved circulation
Type II Collagen
- Improved tendon and joint flexibility and strength.
- Reduced joint pain
- Improved recovery from sports injuries and muscle repair
What Type of Collagen Supplement Do I Need?
Secondary Benefits:
- Improved sleep
- Decreased appetite
- Repair to UV skin damage (age spots)
- Improved skin moisture and hydration
- Smoother joint and ligament mobility/flexibility
It's hard to say which benefits are primary or secondary, however, it is known that your body's natural collagen synthesis is stimulated by consuming collagen protein. This is great news for your entire body.
Risks of Collagen
Collagen is known to be safe to consume, but with that said, it's always smart to know where your food is coming from and exactly what is in it. The FDA does not evaluate supplements for safety or efficacy, so it helps to be aware of the facts for yourself. You'll want to check that label to ensure that the animals used to source the collagen were raised in a healthy maner. Also, you'll want to make sure you're not allergic to any of the contents. For one, if you're looking at marine collagens, there is the risk of allergic reaction for individuals with shellfish allergies. Make sure your marine product comes from fish alone. And, remember the "mad cow" scare?
Some great questions to ask are:
- Where was this product sourced?
- How was the animal raised?
- How was this product manufactured?
First, it is good to be mindful of where the collagen came from geographically. Do your research to determine if you're ok with it. Second, since collagen is generally derived from fish skins and cowhides, you'll want to know how those animals were raised. A wise rule of thumb is to check for "grass fed" beef and "wild caught" fish. These attributes are big deals for a manufacturer and will no doubt be highlighted on the label. Beyond this, ensure your product is made to high quality standards, such as those made in the USA at certified GMP facilities.
The Best Collagen Supplements
Throughout this site, we talk about the superiority and virtues of type one, hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides from fish. Élavonne's Amino Collagen C is our go-to supplement. It offers a pure hydrolyzed powder that absorbs fast in the body with great results. It's also made in the USA from wild-caught North American fish.
Key Features to Look For in Collagen Supplement:
- The words "Hydrolyzed" or "Peptides"
Simply put, this indicates that the protein is ready to be absorbed in the body. It's no longer a fully intact protein requiring digestion, it's basically pre-digested into small-chain amino acids. - Look for "Marine" collagen from "Wild Caught Fish"
Marine collagen peptides from fish have the best amino acid profile and come with less risk than bovine sources. If you're determined to choose a bovine collagen, "grass fed" beef collagen is best.
How to Get the Benefits of Collagen
To get the benefits of collagen, take a daily supplement and be consistent. Users that ingested 10 grams of hydrolyzed marine collagen per day saw many benefits on the outside, including, smoother, firmer skin, and less wrinkles. Users with issues related to the gut and joints were also helped with great results.
Amino Collagen C with Hyaluronic Acid is a marine collagen that maintains an outstanding 84% repurchase rate among individuals currently taking collagen supplements. This formula contains no fillers, sugars, or flavorings, making it a versatile addition to their diet.
Further, with the inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid and vitamin C, the benefits of improved hydration, consistent complexion, and collagen synthesis are maximized and sustained.
Where to Buy Collagen
For a lasting solution and cost-effective way to maintain and promote a youthful appearance, add 5-10g of Amino Collagen C to your diet daily for maximum benefit.
View Product from Manufacturer→View Product on Amazon →
3 Reasons To Choose Élavonne's Amino Collagen C:
- BEST SOURCE:
Marine collagen derived from fresh water, wild caught fish. - BEST ABSORBENCY:
Better bioavailability means that your body uses it more effectively. You'll see results quicker and with less calories than with whole collagen supplements. - BEST FORMULA:
Pure, clean taste, with no fishy aftertaste. Contains vegan sourced hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. No Fillers, No Flavors, No Sugar, No Artificial Preservatives. - PROVEN RESULTS:*
In an 8-12 week, double-blind, randomized study of our marine collagen, participants saw dramatic anti-aging results.
Amino Collagen C
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