Some supplements are simply better than others. That being said, there are several supplements and some might be better suited to your individual needs. This guide will help you pick the collagen that is best for you!
WHAT TO ALWAYS ASK WHEN BUYING COLLAGEN
Where is the collagen coming from?
It doesn’t matter what type of supplement it is, the source will always be important. So where is the supplement getting its collagen? Usually supplements get their collagen from animals like cows, pigs, and fish. Make sure the supplement gets its collagen from good sources such as grass-fed, pasture-raised cows or from sustainable seafood sources.
What type of supplement is it?
There is a long list of forms collagen can take—gummies, lotions, powders, liquids, and capsules to name a few. Some may benefit you better than others. Here is what we know about these different forms to help you decide which is best for you:
- Collagen gummies can be a sweet and simple way to take collagen. However, there aren’t many studies done on how effective these edibles are. With ingredients that are natural to your body and minimal side effects, it doesn’t hurt to test if these treats are good for you.
- Collagen lotions can also be beneficial. There’s still some controversy around lotions—they have been put down as ineffective by some because collagen molecules are actually too large for your skin to absorb. Other studies have shown, however, that these creams can help your skin produce more collagen, retain moisture, and fortify your skin with helpful herbs and vitamins. Again, you can test it out to see if it works for you.
- Collagen liquids are also simple and easy to take. Not to mention the collagen is more easily absorbed by your body than a solid food or than a topical lotion. Not everyone is a fan of the flavor, though. If you would opt to skip the bitter taste, consider a pill or powder.
- Collagen powder and collagen pills are the most commonly used forms of collagen. But is one better than the other? In terms of efficiency, there really isn’t much difference. In the end, it’s all about how you prefer to take your collagen. A pill will be quick and simple, and a powder is great to mix in with a juice or smoothie.
What types of collagen are in the supplement?
There are five major types of collagen used in supplements. Most will include types I and III. Others might contain all five. Here is what each one is good for:
- Type I collagen is the most abundant collagen in your body. It is taken to improve skin, tendons, muscles, bones, organs, nails, and hair. Needless to say, it covers a lot!
- Type II is plentiful in your joints and cartilage. Not surprisingly, it is used to relieve joint pain.
- Type III is very similar to type I, though less abundant. Along with type I’s areas of expertise, type III also addresses the vascular system and eyes.
- Type IV may be able to help the filtration system in the kidneys and give protection to the brain
- Type V is found in the skin and placenta; taking a supplement with type V may fortify these areas.
What else is in the supplement?
There are a lot of collagen supplements that aren’t just collagen – there are other ingredients that can help your body produce more collagen, relieve joint pain, and give you longer-lasting results.
- Vitamin C is good for you for many reasons, but did you know that it also promotes collagen production in your body?
- Hyaluronic acid helps retain collagen in the joints and skin, improves skin elasticity, and provides extra lubrication for the joints.
- Glucosamine is one of the building blocks of cartilage and an anti-inflammatory, glucosamine can help relieve joint pain and reduce swelling in the gut.
- Chondroitin is also found in the joints and is often taken to relieve joint pain.
- Key enzymes in collagen supplements enhance absorption, so you see faster and longer-lasting results.
You know what checks all the right boxes? Ideal Collagen contains 10,000 mg of collagen Types I, II, and III. That collagen comes from grass-fed, pasture raised bovines, free from rBGH (a bovine growth hormone) and pesticides. Its ingredient list also includes hyaluronic acid, glucosmine, chondroitin, and key enzymes. It is perfect for healthy joints, muscles, and skin.
