What Is The Best Collagen Supplement?

Numerous vitamins and minerals are vital for overall health, but many people forget the importance of collagen. As an essential protein, collagen is responsible for joint health, skin elasticity, and many other functions.

Unfortunately, collagen production begins to decline in the 20s and continuously decreases as a person ages. Supplements are beneficial for supporting collagen production and maintaining optimal health.

In this post, we'll explore the best collagen supplements available and reveal how to choose the right one for your needs.

Understanding Collagen

Collagen is the body's most abundant protein, accounting for around 30% of all protein content. It plays a key role in numerous processes and supports connective tissues, including the joints, muscles, bones, and skin.

While there are multiple types of protein, the most common types are the following:

• Type I: As the most important form of collagen, type I supports the skin, tendons, bones and ligaments. It also plays an integral role in reducing wrinkles and supporting skin health. It naturally decreases with age, which is why you'll notice a decline in skin health and an increase in wrinkles.

• Type II: Type II collagen occurs in elastic cartilage with a looser fibre structure. It ensures elasticity and strength for the joints and prevents tearing.

• Type III: As the second most common form of collagen found in the body, type III supports your organs, arteries and muscles. It usually works in collaboration with Type I collagen.

Why use collagen supplements?

As collagen production declines with age, it's vital to increase your intake to ensure you're getting enough of it. One of the best ways to do this is by using supplements.

There are many benefits associated with collaged supplements, including enhanced skin elasticity, stronger nails and hair, and healthier joints.

Skin hydration and elasticity

Wrinkles and sagging skin are part and parcel of the ageing process, but taking a collagen supplement can give your skin some much-needed elasticity, ensuring it looks younger and feels firmer.

Numerous studies have concluded that collagen can increase hydration and plump the skin, resulting in a healthier and younger aesthetic (NIH).

Strong nails and hair

When collagen levels begin to deplete, it can impact hair and nails. Many people experience brittle hair and nails that break easily because their bodies aren't producing enough keratin.

However, using a collagen supplement will boost keratin production, resulting in healthier hair and stronger nails.

Joint and bone support

Joint and bone pain are common signs of low collagen because the protein supports cartilage growth. Cartilage is essential as a cushion for your joints, preventing discomfort and pain.

People with low collagen levels or a deficiency are more likely to develop age-related joint problems and osteoarthritis (PubMed).

Gut health

Collagen contains vital amino acids, including glutamine and glycine - both of which maintain gut health by supporting the lining of your gut. When your collagen levels are low, it's common to experience a range of symptoms, including poor digestion and inflammation.

While probiotics can be beneficial, increasing your collagen levels ensures your gut receives enough amino acids to function.

The types of collagen supplements available

Collagen supplements aren't all made equal, and there are different types available. Understanding how each works and its benefits ensures you can make a decision that suits your needs.

Hydrolysed Collagen (Collagen Peptides)

Collagen peptides are popular supplements because the body can absorb them easily. The manufacturing process involves breaking down the collagen into small peptides, which means that your body gets more of them through supplementation.

Studies show that hydrolysed collagen—when taken regularly—can enhance skin hydration and reduce wrinkles (NIH). It's also beneficial for bone and joint health, ensuring faster post-workout recovery times.

Undenatured Collagen (UC-II)

Undenatured collagen—also known as UC-II—is a specialised variant of the protein that frequently appears in supplements for joint health. UC-II's ability to remain in its natural state makes it unique, ensuring it reacts with the immune system and can boost tolerance levels.

Taking a regular UC-II supplement can reduce joint discomfort and increase mobility by supporting cartilage regeneration. Studies concluded that UC-II is particularly beneficial for the joints and can support arthritis (BMC).

Bovine Collagen

Bovine collagen comes from cows' cartilage, bones, and skin and contains both Type I and III collagen. Many beauty supplements use bovine collagen because it's renowned for its ability to support hair growth, strengthen nails, and keep skin healthy.

Aside from beauty supplements, bovine collagen plays a key role in gut health and can treat conditions like leaky gut syndrome.

Marine Collagen

As you can probably guess from the name, marine collagen comes from the skin and scales of fish. Abundant in Type I collagen, it benefits skin elasticity and boosts hydration.

Marine collagen peptides have a smaller structure than most other forms, which means that the body can easily absorb them. If you're concerned about sustainability, then marine collagen can be beneficial as it has a lower environmental impact than bovine collagen supplements.

Vegan Collagen Boosters

Unfortunately, collagen is derived from animals, which means you won't find a plant-based supplement. However, collagen boosters can stimulate your body's ability to create collagen.

These supplements usually contain nutrients such as Vitamin C, amino acids, and zinc, all of which support hair, skin, and nails.

Tips for choosing the best collagen supplement

When choosing a collagen supplement, it's vital to consider your needs and any lifestyle restrictions. Here are some top tips for selecting a collagen supplement:

• Source & Type: Think about your needs and overall health goals. For example, bovine collagen peptides are ideal for skin, gut and hair health, while marine collagen can improve skin conditions. Opting for a UC-II supplement is best if you have joint disorders.

• Bioavailability: When it comes to giving your body vital proteins, collagen peptides are beneficial due to their availability.

• Dietary Restrictions: If you're a vegan or vegetarian, you won't be able to use traditional collagen supplements and that limits your supplements that boost collagen production naturally.

• Extra Support: Some collagen supplements offer additional support by including other ingredients, such as Vitamin C, biotic, zinc, and copper.

• Supplement Format: Collagen powders are highly popular due to their accessibility, but some people prefer capsules.

What are the alternatives to collagen supplements?

Vegetarians and vegans often struggle to maintain optimal collagen levels, but there are alternatives available that can maintain optimal health and support multiple bodily functions. Let's take a look at them now.

Boost your collagen levels through diet

You should never underestimate the power of a balanced diet; consuming certain foods can increase your natural collagen levels. They include:

• Protein-Rich Foods: Increasing protein intake can help your body produce more collagen. Foods that are high in protein include fish, lean meats, tofu, beans, lentils, dairy products, and eggs.

• Zinc and Copper: Zinc and copper support the formation of collagen, so eating foods like whole grains, seeds, and nuts is beneficial.

• Sulphur-Rich Foods – Sulphur can support collagen production, and it's common in broccoli, cabbage, onions and garlic.

• Bone Broth: You can simmer connective tissue and animal bones to create bone broth high in collagen.

Glucosamine sulphate

Glucosamine sulphate is a compound that occurs naturally in the body. Its main benefit is the ability to support cartilage and support your joint health.

Individuals with joint conditions such as osteoarthritis can benefit from taking a glucosamine supplement, as it can slow down the progression of joint conditions.

While research is ongoing, one study concluded that glucosamine sulphate supplements can prevent people from developing knee osteoarthritis.

Making lifestyle changes

Your dietary choices can significantly affect your body's ability to produce collagen, but certain lifestyle decisions can be beneficial. They include:

• Limiting Sugar: Consuming excess sugar can lead to something called glycation - a process that accelerates ageing and damages collagen production. Reducing your intake and consuming less sugar can preserve natural collagen levels.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water ensures the skin remains hydrated and supports collagen function.

• Exercise Frequently: Your body needs proteins to function and build muscles. When you exercise regularly and focus on strength training activities, it increases your collagen levels.

• Destress: Stress is a common problem that many people face, but there are things you can do to reduce it and relax. Increased cortisol can lead to collagen breakdown, but meditation and relaxation will reduce the amount of cortisol your body creates.

The bottom line

Collagen will continue to be a vital protein, and increasing your levels can support your joints and halt the ageing process. Whether you choose collagen powder or capsules, introducing a supplement can be highly beneficial.

Vegans and vegetarians can increase their collagen levels naturally through boosters and lifestyle changes. Opting for an alternative supplement such as glucosamine will support joint health, and Sealions also has a highly effective Hair, Skin, and Nail supplement.

Shopping with us gives you access to excellent prices and high-quality supplements. Please get in touch with our customer service team if you have any questions or require advice.