Collagen. Have you heard of it?
It seems to be cropping up everywhere with claims around skin health, joint health, hair and nail growth and gut health. But what exactly is it and how effective is it in supporting clear skin?
Collagen is the glue that holds our bodies together. It strengthens the tendons which connect our muscles to our bones and ligaments that connect our bones together. It is a huge part of our bodies and is found everywhere! It also makes up between 25-35% of the body’s total protein as it contains 8 of the 9 essential amino acids.
Collagen peptides (also known as hydrolyzed) include the collagen I mentioned above from sources such as cow or fish which are referred to as bovine or marine collagen respectively. The peptides or hydrolyzed version simply means that the collagen has been broken down into an easily absorbable form.
You may also see gelatin at the store and although they are both sources of protein, gelatin has a gelling ability (eg. to make jellies or pudding) as it is processed into slightly larger pieces.
When it comes to skin health, opt for grass-fed bovine collagen.
What most people are unaware of is that there are 3 different types of collagen and this depends on the original source – either marine, bovine or chicken. These different types also have specific benefits.
The type of collagen that you choose will depends on what you would like to address. When it comes to clear skin, opt for grass-fed bovine collagen.
Several studies on collagen peptides show positive effects around many areas including:
Collagen peptides can be used as a protein boost in smoothies, coffee/tea or overnight oats to name a few. It is easily mixed in and undetectable once dissolved. As mentioned above, when having collagen peptides keep in mind that they aren’t quite a complete protein source – although it does contain 8 of the 9 essential amino acids, the exception is tryptophan.
When it comes to effectiveness, I’ll let the studies speak for themselves. In my personal experience, over the span of about 3 months, I have found that regularly adding collagen powder to my morning drink has resulted in longer and fuller eyelashes and clearer skin! Especially on my bottom lids which are quite sparse. This is my personal experience though and keep in mind that every body is different.
In my next post, I’ll share the recipe for my favourite non-coffee morning mix which is my favourite way to have my collagen peptides! Can you guess what it is?
*Notes: the collagen brand pictured here is simply one that I’m currently using among many other great brands.
Collagen. Have you heard of it? It seems to be cropping up everywhere with claims around skin health, joint health,
Are you struggling with the daily discomfort and frustration of perioral dermatitis? If you’re anything like me, then you know
Perioral (periorificial) dermatitis is a red rash that circles your mouth. Your skin can be scaly, dry and flaky with