Collagen is the most prominent protein in the body, making up almost 30% of all protein and is the second most abundant substance after water. It is a key component of connective tissues, found everywhere, including the skin, bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints. It is believed that our endogenous collagen production declines as we age, with production dropping by 1% each year after the age of 30. Incorporating more collagen into our diets to maintain strong bones, joints and healthy skin is foundational.
Why do we need it?
– The body becomes less efficient at producing collagen as we age; We lose 1% each year after 30 years old.
– Dietary preferences and patterns have changed over the decades; years ago, people used bones, broth, organs and tendons to enrich the diet with whole animal sources of collagen nutrition.
– Signs of ageing can be a result of collagen deficiency; dull, saggy skin that lacks lustre, decreased joint flexibility and mobility, may indicate low collagen levels.
How does collagen supplementation work?
It acts as a messenger
Collagen peptides may act as messengers to the cells and trigger the synthesis and reorganisation of new collagen fibers, therefore supporting skin, bone and joint tissue structures.
It supplies the body with needed amino acids, or building blocks
Over 90% of the collagen peptides appear in our bloodstream within a few hours after consumption. This rapid absorption ensures an effective delivery of the essential peptides and amino acids to their site of action within the body. Consumption of collagen peptides helps supply the body with amino acids needed as building blocks to renew tissues, like skin, bones and joints.
The key amino acids
Collagen is characterised by a high level of key amino acids: Glycine, Proline and Hydroxyproline. These represent about 50% of the total amino acid content, which are the same amino acids found in skin, joints, and bones. This specific composition provides collagen peptides with unique bio-functional properties that cannon be found in other protein sources.
Types of collagen
The type of collagen refers to where it is located, in the body (where it’s sourced from), not where it’s going to be transplanted after consumption, which is a common misconception. For example, consuming collagen sourced from bovine hides, containing Type I and Type III, can support joint health. This is because collagen is metabolised just like other proteins into tri/di-peptides and amino acids, which in turn stimulate and nourish the cells to produce more collagen.
Where does it come from?
Collagen is an animal-based substance, most commonly derived from bovines, fish and porcine.
Is there vegan collagen?
Collagen cannot be derived from plants and therefore is not vegan. Collagen builders are often made with vitamins and minerals that serve as cofactors to support collagen production.
Can I take it if pregnant, lactating or breastfeeding?
Vital Proteins collagen is safe to use when pregnant, lactating or breastfeeding. However, it is advised to seek advice from your health professional first.
What makes Vital Proteins collagen different?
Vital Proteins prides itself on three things; transparency, quality and clean labels. We believe everyone should know how products are made, offering numerous resources regarding education, sourcing, processing, and testing. Vital Proteins is committed to creating premium collagen products, prioritising high quality, recognisable ingredients.