Which Collagen Is Best? Doctor Recommended

“Most research on collagen supplements is related to joint and skin health. Human studies are lacking but some randomized controlled trials have found that collagen supplements improve skin elasticity. Other trials have found that the supplements can improve joint mobility and decrease joint pain such as with osteoarthritis or in athletes.”

Harvard School of Public Health

One of the latest natural health trends these days is taking collagen supplements. Collagen is a protein found in our skin, muscles, tendons, and bones and as we age, our bodies produce less and less collagen which can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and joint pain. That’s why many people turn to collagen supplements as a way to help combat these effects of aging. 

But with so many different types and brands of collagen on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. So, which collagen is best?

Here, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular types of collagen supplements and compare their benefits. Then, we’ll give you our top pick for the best collagen supplement overall.

What exactly is collagen? 

Before we get into which collagen is best, let’s first take a step back and answer the question: what exactly is collagen?

Collagen is a protein that’s found in our skin, muscles, tendons, and bones. It’s responsible for giving our skin its elasticity and strength. As we age, our bodies produce less of this protein, which can lead to all the effects associated with aging: wrinkles, sagging skin, and joint and muscle pain. 

There are many different types of collagen, but the most common ones you’ll find in supplements are Type I, II, and III. 

Type I collagen is the most abundant type of collagen in our bodies and is responsible for our skin, hair, nails, and tendons. Type II collagen is found in our joints and cartilage, and Type III collagen is found in our muscles, blood vessels, and intestines.

Now that we know a little more about what collagen is, let’s take a look at the different types of collagen supplements. 

Types of Collagen Supplements 

There are many different types of collagen supplements on the market, and they come in all shapes and sizes! Here are some of the most popular types of collagen supplements: 

Peptides 

Collagen peptides are small fragments of protein that are easily absorbed by the body. They’re usually found in powder form and can be mixed into drinks or smoothies. 

One of the benefits of taking collagen peptides is that they’re more easily absorbed by the body than other forms of collagen. This means that you’re more likely to see the benefits of taking them, such as improved skin health, joint pain relief, and stronger hair and nails. 

Gelatin

Gelatin is a protein that’s derived from collagen. It’s often used in food as a thickening agent, and you can also find it in supplements. 

Gelatin is a great source of protein and can help improve your gut health. It’s also been shown to help with joint pain and reduce inflammation. 

Which collagen is best?

Now that we’ve looked at the different types of collagen supplements, which one should you choose? 

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re looking for a supplement that will help improve your skin health, then collagen peptides are a good choice. If you’re looking for a supplement to help with joint pain, then gelatin is a good choice. 

If you’re not sure which type of collagen supplement is right for you, we’ve comprised a little guide to help you with your decision:

For Skin Health 

Collagen peptides are a popular supplement for those looking to tighten their skin, decrease the risk of wrinkles, and improve their complexion. Taking peptides can also help reduce the appearance of cellulite and it’s a simple and convenient way to get your daily dose of collagen. 

For Joint Health 

If you’re dealing with joint pain, gelatin is a good choice as it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling and stiffness in the joints. It’s also been shown to improve gut health and digestion. 

For Nail Health 

Nails are made up of 80-90% keratin, which is a type of protein. So it makes sense that taking a collagen supplement can help improve the health of your nails. Collagen peptides are a good choice for those looking to strengthen their nails and prevent breakage. 

For Hair Health 

Hair is also made up of keratin, so collagen peptides can also help improve the health of your hair. Collagen peptides can help strengthen hair follicles and prevent breakage and damaged ends.

For Digestion 

If you’re looking for a collagen supplement to help with digestion, then gelatin is a good choice. Gelatin can help improve gut health by restoring the lining of the digestive tract and it’s also been shown to improve nutrient absorption. 

Overall Health Recommendation 

Taking a daily collagen supplement is a great way to improve your overall health. Collagen peptides are a good choice for those looking to improve their skin, hair, nails, and joints. Gelatin is a good choice for those looking to improve their gut health and digestion. 

No matter which type of collagen supplement you choose, be sure to read the label carefully and choose a product that’s from a reputable source. Also, be sure to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you have a medical condition.

Is collagen worth taking?

Now that we’ve looked at the different types of collagen and their benefits, you might be wondering if collagen is worth taking. 

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and goals. If you’re seeking a quick and easy way to up your natural collagen production, then taking collagen peptides or adding more gelatin into your diet is a great way to do so! You can mix powders into smoothies, prepare jellies and glazes, or grab ready-to-go collagen drinks for your drive to work in the morning. Upping your body’s collagen couldn’t be easier! 

Which form of collagen is most effective?

There are many different types of collagen supplements on the market, so which one is the most effective? 

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and goals. Another thing to keep in mind is that everyone’s body will react differently to supplements, medications, and changes in diet. The best thing to do is start out with a small dosage, give it time to kick in, and if you’re not happy with the results, try to slowly up the dosage or speak with a nutritionist or medical professional familiar with collagen supplements. 

How to Choose a Collagen Supplement

It can be intimidating to start a new supplement regimen. There are many things to consider when choosing which supplement is right for you. Here are a few tips on how to choose a collagen supplement:

Dose

Every supplement will recommend a unique dosage–whether you’re adding scoops of powder into your smoothies, taking a daily pill, or soaking in a collagen-infused bath. You’re going to want to find a supplement that fits into your lifestyle the best. If you’re someone who hates taking pills, then a powder might be the best choice for you.

It’s important to start with the lowest recommended dose and increase gradually as needed. This will help your body adjust to the supplement and decrease the likelihood of any unwanted side effects. 

Source

You’re going to want to make sure that you’re getting your collagen from a reputable source. This means checking the labels carefully and ensuring that the product is from a company that follows good manufacturing practices. 

Keep in mind that not all supplements are created equal. There will always be variations in quality, so it’s important to do your research and choose a product that you can trust.

Form

Collagen supplements come in many different forms, from powders to pills to bath bombs to sheets that you can cook with. You’ll want to choose a form that you’re comfortable taking and that fits into your lifestyle. 

If you’re someone who loves taking baths, then a collagen-infused bath bomb might be the perfect choice for you. Or, if you’re someone who is always on the go, then a powder that you can mix into your morning coffee might be a better option.

Additional Ingredients

Some collagen supplements will include additional ingredients, such as biotin, vitamin C, or herbs. These ingredients can help to improve the efficacy of the supplement and target specific health concerns. 

For example, if you’re looking to improve your joint health, then a supplement that includes glucosamine might be a good choice for you. Or, if you’re looking to improve the health of your skin, then a supplement that includes vitamin C might be a better option. 

Transparency

A good supplement company will be transparent about their products, ingredients, and manufacturing process. They will also be willing to answer any questions that you might have about their products. 

If a company is not being transparent about their products or manufacturing process, then that is a red flag and you should look for another option.

Choosing the right collagen supplement can be a daunting task, but it’s important to take the time to find a product that you’re comfortable taking and that meets your needs. Start by considering your individual goals and needs, and then find a supplement that fits into your lifestyle. Once you’ve found a product that you’re happy with, stick with it and don’t be afraid to experiment with different doses and forms to find what works best for you.

Is it good to take collagen every day?

There is no definitive answer to this question as everyone’s needs are different. However, most experts recommend taking collagen every day in order to see the best results. It’s recommended to take anywhere from 2.5-15 grams of collagen a day, depending on the product you’re using and the results you’re seeking.

The Bottom Line

Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they are thought to offer a host of health benefits. If you’re considering adding collagen supplements into your daily routine then it’s important to do your research and find a product that you’re comfortable taking and that fits into your lifestyle. If you’re looking for more information on collagen products, browse some clean-sourced, organic products to find the right fit for you!

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