Unveiling the Secrets of Collagen Supplements
A Comprehensive Guide to Making the Right Choice
Are you wondering why collagen supplementation could be beneficial for your skin, hair, and joints? Discover the science behind it and how to pick the right collagen product for you.
Taking extra steps to supplement Collagen as part of a daily diet to replace and replenish lost collagen is important.
But why do experts recommend collagen supplementation over natural sources like bone broth?
Let's break it down.
How come we recommend supplementation and not just collagen intake through food/dietary sources? After all, bone marrow for example, is an extremely rich source of Collagen. Well, the reason lies in one crucial factor: absorption.
In dietary form, like bone marrow broth, Collagen has a relatively large molecular size. Because of this it is difficult for the human gut to absorb in its natural state. That's why we turn to innovative solutions.
Collagen Absorption
Certain brands out there, such as Napier-based company Adashiko, a world leader in collagen supplementation biotechnology, use a unique process to break down the Collagen that they source (from porcine animal sources in Japan) into Collagen peptides (also known as super Collagen) using a hydrolysis reaction.
The peptides (smaller sized Collagen) dramatically improve absorption, meaning the gut can now absorb higher levels. With increased uptake comes increased benefits. Collagen absorbed into the bloodstream is then delivered to our skin and joints. The end result? A stronger internal collagen network and a visibly rejuvenated you.
The benefits
Strengthening our internal Collagen network allows more Collagen in the skin, hair and nails. Think of it as turbocharging your beauty and health from the inside out. This plays a role in absorbing water leading to improved moisturisation, hydration and helping support against premature ageing. It also leads to increased elasticity in the skin which translates into a more radiant and youthful texture and tone.
Collagen does show other benefits as well. It's not just a beauty booster; it's also a wellness enhancer. For example, Collagen is made of amino acids (protein building blocks) such as glycine and proline. These are essential to help maintain a healthy gut lining, support a strong immune system, and aid in muscle building.
Clinical trials over the past decade add credibility to the efficacy of collagen supplements. Let's delve into some data.
A trial in 2015 published in the Journal of Cosmetology indicated that consuming Collagen supplements for eight weeks significantly increased skin hydration and the heightened Collagen density persisted for 12 weeks after the trial ended.
In another trial, 250 people with osteoarthritis of the knee were randomized and given hydrolyzed Collagen peptides while others were given a placebo. Those who received Collagen reported a greater reduction in pain compared to the placebo group. What's more, this suggests a potential holistic approach to managing conditions like osteoarthritis.
In another trial, 250 people with osteoarthritis of the knee were randomized and given hydrolyzed Collagen peptides while others were given a placebo. Those who received Collagen reported a greater reduction in pain compared to the placebo group. What's more, this suggests a potential holistic approach to managing conditions like osteoarthritis.
A Quick Guide: How to Choose the Right Collagen Supplement
Type of Collagen: Opt for a product with collagen peptides, as they are smaller in molecular size and thus, easier to absorb.
Supplement Form: Powders will generally be superior to capsules in terms of absorption. The quicker the supplement dissolves, the quicker it can get to work.
Cofactors/Other Ingredients: Look for premium formulations that offer additional benefits. Think of these as bonus features that amplify the core benefits of collagen.
Odor & Taste: Opt for supplements that are both odorless and tasteless for ease of use. Remember, the best product is the one you'll actually use regularly.
Supplement Form: Powders will generally be superior to capsules in terms of absorption. The quicker the supplement dissolves, the quicker it can get to work.
Cofactors/Other Ingredients: Look for premium formulations that offer additional benefits. Think of these as bonus features that amplify the core benefits of collagen.
Odor & Taste: Opt for supplements that are both odorless and tasteless for ease of use. Remember, the best product is the one you'll actually use regularly.
Our Top Pick: Adashiko Collagen
In our humble opinion, the best option on the market is Adashiko Collagen. Not only does it score high in all the essential criteria, but it also adds a layer of sophistication with its specialized formulations for both internal and external applications.
By making an informed choice in collagen supplements, you're investing in a healthier, more radiant future for yourself. Go ahead, embrace the transformation!
**The author of this blog is not in any paid or unpaid partnership with the aforementioned brands and comes from a non-biased, education based professional platform with critical comparison of collagen options on the market.
References:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26362110/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17076983
References:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26362110/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17076983