Ultimate Guide to Collagen & Collagen Supplements

Collagen - you may have stumbled on this trendy ingredient while on your supermarket or chemist run. They’re practically everywhere—from food packs, protein bars, coffee, creamers, down to topical cream and serums! You can even take them in the form of capsules and gummies! Collagen has taken over the wellness world and will most likely stay in the shelves of the health, wellness, and beauty sections.

But what exactly is collagen? And what are the benefits of consuming them? We answer your most pressing questions around collagen and discuss everything you need to know about collagen supplements right here!

 

What is collagen?

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the body and is made up of amino acids, the majority of which comes from proline and glycine. Collagen produced by our bodies is mostly found in connective tissue, helping create the structure of our skin, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. It’s known as a glue that holds the body together, and can actually be quite rigid (as in bone), or soft (as in skin).

 

What does collagen do?

Collagen’s greatest characteristic is its tensile strength, that is, it can withstand being stretched or pulled. In fact, collagen (along with elastin and soft keratin) is the reason why our skin is so soft and stretchy! Since it’s also present in many parts of our bodies, a healthy amount of collagen is apparent when we have strong bones, healthy hair, luscious skin and nails, vigorous joints, and a healthy gut.

Contrary to popular belief, collagen is actually naturally found and produced inside our bodies. However, as we age, production slows down, and the collagen within our bodies begin to deteriorate. This usually starts sometime in our early 20s, and telling signs of this process include: visible fine lines, wrinkles, brittle hair and nails, digestion issues, and joint pain.

For this reason, plenty of people take collagen from varying food sources and supplements (coupled with Vitamin C) to boost natural collagen production and keep their skin young, fresh, and supple.

 

How do we naturally boost collagen?

There are several ways you can naturally boost collagen. One of them is through the consumption of whole food sources. Collagen can come from meat, fish, and eggs. But the best sources of collagen can be found in tendons and cartilage.

Bone broth is another whole food source of collagen. Simply simmer collagen-rich parts of an animal’s bones and sip the warm broth to increase collagen levels.

There are also plant-based foods that support collagen production, such as asparagus, avocados, beans, cabbages, cauliflower, spinach, soy, and sunflower seeds. 

Apart from incorporating these foods into your diet, you can boost your collagen levels through collagen supplements in the form of powders, capsules, or even shots. Collagen dietary supplements are one of the most natural ways to boost collagen production. Plus, they’re an easy way to incorporate into your diet or routine.

 

Benefits of taking collagen supplements

Promotes elastic production and boost skin’s collagen levels

The key to supple and youthful skin relies is in the strength of the skin’s dermal layer, which contains cells that produce elastin and collagen. However, as we age, the dermal layer suffers because aged fibroblasts produce less collagen. Collagen supplements can help support the body’s natural production and increase skin elasticity and collagen density.

Supports scalp health

Scalp is actually skin with more hair follicles. So, what’s beneficial for your skin is also useful to your scalp! Collagen supplements can support damaged scalp that can prevent hair thinning and hair loss.

Strengthens nail health

Collagen also supports nail health. Taking collagen can significantly improve growth rates, reduced brittleness, and improved appearance of your nails.

Supports gut and digestion health

One of the main amino acids found in collagen called L-glutamate is found to support the digestive tract by neutralising oxidative stress. Collagen supplements also help with managing common digestion conditions.

Manages joint health

Collagen can be found in connective tissues all over the body, including our joints. They help stimulate the production of cartilage – a rubbery material that protects the bones.

 

How much collagen should you take?

Since collagen supplements can be taken in the form of tablets and powders, dosage recommendations vary. Generally, the recommended serving size of collagen powders is 2.5 to 5 gm once daily (about one to two scoops). Collagen supplements can be added to your diet, starting from 1,000mg. This ensures an adequate amount of protein and collagen.

 

Does it have side effects?

There are not many known risks of consuming collagen supplements. However, it is important to note that some collagen supplements are made from common food allergens such as fish, shellfish, and eggs. If you are allergic to these types of food, it’s best to avoid collagen supplements made from these ingredients to prevent allergic reactions. Your healthcare provider may give the best advice on what kind of collagen supplements to take. 

A side effect people report when taking collagen supplements is a lingering bad taste in the mouth. There are also reports of individuals experiencing feelings of fullness and heartburn. Other than these, collagen supplements remain safe for the majority of people.

 

What to look for when buying collagen

There are two common types of collagen supplements: marine and bovine. Bovine collagen is present in bones and cartilages. We recommend buying bovine collagen from a company that sources their products from grass-fed or pasture-raised cows.

On the other hand, Marine collagen is derived from fish. We recommend looking for companies that have clean sources and have independent, quality testing.

Some collagen supplements also include additional ingredients. These ingredients can provide added sustenance vital for skin and hair health and improve the body’s ability to absorb collagen. You should consider looking for collagen supplements that also contain the following: vitamin C, Biotin, and Hyaluronic acid.

Collagen Recommendations

At Bargain Chemist, we supply a wide selection of collagen products! We provide:

• Collagen powder– Our Radiance Collagen Beauty Powder provides a high dose of clinically researched marine collage peptides proven to support collagen production.
• Collagen capsules– We have Good Health Imaglow Capsules that provide a high level of collagen as well as vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Biotin, and more to support healthy hair, skins, and nails.
• Collagen shots– Our Radiance Marine Collagen Shots are essential beauty blends of nutrients that support a younger, smoother, and more supple complexion.

 

Can’t get enough of collagen? Order and buy with confidence at Bargain Chemist today! As a leading online pharmacy in NZ, we provide the best collagen products and other dietary supplements you need. Shop with ease and convenience today and get free NZ shipping on all orders over $50!