ALL ABOUT COLLAGEN

 

Miami, Florida

Collagen is a protein in our bodies that is involved in the creation and function of many organs and connective tissues such as skin, tendons, muscles, ligaments, and bones. There are 28 types of collagen in the body, but type I, II, and III are the most common types. Unfortunately, as we age, collagen production slows down significantly.

Research shows that results are promising for the short and long-term use of oral collagen supplements for skin aging (skin hydration and elasticity), gut health, joint function, and a variety of other full-body benefits. There are a lot of different products available and it can be overwhelming to choose the right collagen supplement, it really comes down to your goals and needs. It’s super important to look at the collagen types and additional ingredients.

Watch out for purity and quality.

Choose only grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine or sustainably-sourced seafood collagen. Also if you come across ‘Hydrolyzed collagen peptides’ this means the amino acids have been broken down for easier digestion and absorption.

Look out for flavor and mixability.

Most off-the-shelf collagen supplements may taste bad and do not mix well. Try to find collagen you'll be glad to consume every morning! Consistency is key.

transparency

Always check that a product has been third-party lab-tested to be certain that the product has been independently tested for potentially harmful ingredients to ensure safety. 

Now, let’s get to the different types of collagen that you should look out for when choosing a product.

type I

This is the most abundant collagen in the human body, found in skin, bone, ligaments, and even teeth. Type I collagen is the primary building block of your skin and may support skin elasticity and hydration. Bovine collagen is a common source of type I collagen.

type II

Often referred to as the “joint support” collagen, type II is found in the cartilage that supports our joints. That's why type II is typically considered the best type of collagen for anyone struggling with joint concerns. Hydrolyzed chicken collagen is considered to be one of the best sources of bone and joint-supporting type II collagen.

type III

Usually associated with type I collagen, these two types make up the two most commonly-found types in our body. Also, highly beneficial for supporting skin health, type III collagen makes up a large part of our skin and organs. Bovine collagen is also a source of type III collagen.

bovine collagen

Naturally sourced from cattle, bovine collagen is rich in collagen types I and III. It also contains protein and a diverse amino acid profile. Because it delivers types I and III, it’s often used for skin, hair, nail, and joint health. 

marine collagen

Rich in collagen type I, this collagen is sourced from different marine species, typically fish (skin, bones, fins) but also jellyfish, sponges, and other by-catch from the fishing industry.

Okay, that was a lot of information… Now to my favorite products.

My favorite collagen supplement is from Agent Nateur Holi(mane) Hair, Skin, Nails Supplement. A couple of my clients started to tell me how it helped them grow their hair and I really loved the results with my own hair and skin. We actually carry it now at House of Mane. So make sure to get it during your next visit. Holi(mane) is made with Marine Collagen, derived from wild-caught, deep-sea fish. You can simply add 1 scoop to any raw food or beverage including—but not limited to—matcha, coffee, smoothies, sauces, desserts, and dressings. You can even add it to your Ernie’s Acai bowl :) It’s beneficial for the following concerns: dull, fragile hair, skin volume, fine lines and wrinkles, dehydrated skin, brittle nails, and hair shedding.

Another great option is Natural Force Clean Marine Collagen Peptides you can shop here. I personally like how transparent Natural Force is, they break down the amino acid profile, are third-party tested, and are a Certified B Corp.

If you don’t follow a strict pescatarian diet you can try a Collagen supplement with Bovine collagen peptides, which tend to be the most effective. This product also includes Biotin so it’s great if your main concern is hair: Garden of Life Grass-fed Collagen Beauty Powder you can find it on Amazon here.

Hope this helped xoxo

 
Stephanie Theis Fajardo