What Does Collagen Do?

You’ve probably heard of this wonder powder, known for its ability to plump our skin, reduce wrinkles, and make our hair and nails grow thicker. Does it sound too good to be true?

Collagen is the most abundant form of protein found in the body, making up 25% to 35% of all protein in humans. Collagen acts as structural support for the skin, as it’s the protein that forms connective tissue throughout our body. The human body naturally produces Collagen every day, but over time, production starts to decrease. This triggers the signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.

What is Collagen made of?

The Collagen found in supplements is normally made from animal tissues such as the skin and bones of cattle and pigs, fish scales, and eggshells. When processed, the proteins are turned into gelatin, which is then broken down even further to form a Collagen powder.

For those who feel uncomfortable with the sources of Collagen, there are now vegan options that help support Collagen production in the body.

Other ingredients you may notice in Collagen supplements are Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Biotin. These assist in heightening the efficiency of Collagen.

What is Marine Collagen?

Marine Collagen is found in the skins and scales of fish. The Collagen is removed and run through a hydrolysation process, which allows the Marine Collagen to dissolve easily in hot or cold water. Marine Collagen can be absorbed more easily by the body compared with bovine Collagen, and the former can be easier to digest too.

What are the benefits of taking Collagen powder?

Create more youthful-looking skin: Collagen is the most abundant protein in the skin. It makes up 75% to 80% of your skin, which means taking a Collagen supplement can help create more fullness in your complexion. In one study, women who took a supplement containing 2.5 to 5 grams of Collagen for eight weeks experienced less skin dryness and a significant increase in skin elasticity compared with those who didn’t take the supplement.

Stronger bones and joints: Not only is it anti-aging for your skin, but Collagen can also turn back the clock on joints. Collagen helps maintain the integrity of your joint cartilage, which is the rubber-like tissue that protects your joints. Collagen may help promote pain relief.

Healthier hair: Marine Collagen is known for its positive effects on the hair and scalp, as it stimulates the growth of new hair follicles.

How can we increase our Collagen intake?

To combat the body’s natural reduction in Collagen that comes with age, you can add more Collagen to your diet by regularly consuming foods like bone broth, egg yolks, chicken, and salmon skin. If these aren’t in your regular meals, or you want a boost, a Collagen supplement is an easy way to reap the benefits of this powerful protein. Simply add it to your liquid of choice, like your smoothie, coffee, or soup.

How long does it take for Collagen supplements to work?

Like most beauty supplements, Collagen must be taken consistently and given time to work. Each Collagen product has its own recommended dose, so it’s important to read the instructions. On average, results begin to show within four to six weeks (which is how long our skin takes to renew in one cycle).

Want to give Collagen a try? Here are our faves:

• Enjoy 1 to 3 sachets per day. One sachet is ideal to maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails. Choose 2 sachets per day (1 in the morning and 1in the evening) to counteract weak nails, fine hair, and the first signs of lines and wrinkles. Three sachets per day (1 with each meal) work for those with wrinkles, thinning hair, a dull complexion, and brittle nails.

• Add 2 level teaspoons (6 grams) to a smoothie with fruit, sweetener, and milk of choice. This product is vegan, cruelty-free, and free from flavourings, sweeteners, sugar, gluten, soy, and preservatives.

• Mix the berry-flavoured Collagen into 200 mL of filtered water or coconut water—or add it to a smoothie.

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