Video Credit: Dr. Arsalan Aspires
You've probably heard about collagen – the protein that provides strength and flexibility to our skin, bones, and muscles.
As we age, collagen levels begin to decline, giving rise to skin aging and other related issues.
In this article, we'll talk about the the effectiveness of collagen supplements, the best collagen supplements in Australia, and the top mistakes to avoid when incorporating these supplements into your health routine.
The Importance of Collagen
Collagen acts as the building blocks for our body. It contributes to the firmness of our skin, the resilience of our bones, and the toughness of our muscles.
Unfortunately, as we age, our body's collagen production diminishes, leading to the emergence of wrinkles. The chief contributor to aging skin is the decline of collagen – the very component responsible for maintaining youthful skin.
Collagen levels start to deplete at age 20
Do Collagen Supplements Actually Work?
One of the prevailing questions surrounding collagen supplementation is whether the body can absorb it effectively.
Contrary to misconceptions, research reveals that ingested collagen isn't entirely destroyed by stomach acids. Instead, it breaks down into smaller di-and tripeptides.
These peptides survive hydrolysis and traverse the intestinal mucosa via a specialized transporter, PEPT-1, and ultimately finding their way to our skin.
In essence, the collagen we consume do indeed reach our skin!
How Does Collagen Reverse Aging?
To grasp how collagen combats aging, let's explore the role of fibroblasts.
These cells play a vital role in maintaining the firmness of our skin. However, as we age, they become less active, allowing destructive enzymes called MMPs (matrix metallopeptidases) to take over.
MMPs degrade collagen, causing our skin to lose its tautness. Collagen supplements come to the rescue by stimulating fibroblast activity.
When these cells become more active, they work to repair our skin's structure and combat the effects of the harmful MMPs, thereby reversing skin aging.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid with Collagen Supplements
1. Not controlling stress
High stress levels increase cortisol production, which reduces collagen production. Stress management through activities like exercise, laughter, and yoga is important.
2. Not getting enough vitamin C
Adequate vitamin C is crucial for collagen function. It serves as a cofactor for collagen and elastin synthesis and acts as an antioxidant against collagen-damaging free radicals.
3. Not getting enough sleep
Lack of sleep compromises the immune system, slowing collagen production. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night is ideal.
4. Drinking collagen hot
Collagen supplements should only be taken at room temperature or with a cold beverage, as collagen falls apart as temperatures above body temperature.
5. Skipping sunscreen
Even with collagen supplements, using sunscreen is crucial. UVA rays penetrate deeply and break down collagen. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and consider physical sunscreens for immediate protection.
Top 5 Collagen Supplements in Australia
We here at Superfood Reviews have done the research to find out what the best option for collagen supplements in the market. We have graded each choice through a stringent grading based on the following criteria:
Our evaluation criteria:
1. The Purest Co Collagen Glow Berries
Key differentiators: Superior ingredients, large amount of collagen
Pros:
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides from Japan
Contains complementary ingredients
Made in an FDA-approved facility
The Purest Co’s Collagen Glow Berries contains a potent dose (5500mg) of marine collagen sourced from Japan in each sachet, and follows it up with supporting ingredients like vitamin C (250mg), bilberry extract, and mixed berries concentrate juice.
Collagen Glow Berries uses a patented technology to extract their collagen peptides, ensuring faster and more effective absorption of collagen into the body.
With its mixed berries concentrate juice, the taste is a hit amongst consumers and feedback is that it is just right in terms of sweetness. Not only does this make for a delicious supplement, but the Vitamin C in these berries provide added antioxidant support and improve your body’s rate of absorption.
2. Pure Collagen Powder by Dose & Co.
Key differentiators: Popular, well-known Australian brand
Pros:
10 grams of type 1-3 collagen per serving
Popular brand in Australia
Dairy and gluten free
No sugars and sweeteners
Keto-friendly
Good reviews
Pure Collagen Powder by Dose and Co is a well-known collagen brand in Australia. This type of collagen is soluble and can be incorporated into your diet, whether to hot or cold liquids including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and smoothies, and can also be added to your morning oats and baking.
The supplement from Dose and Co is free from dairy, gluten, sweeteners, sugars, and GMO. Each serving comes with 10g of type 1-3 collagen and is also keto-friendly. However, Dose and Co does not use branded collagen, and is not clinically tested or has research backing it. There is no information whether their collagen is hydrolyzed, which may affect the efficacy if it is not.
In addition to that, consumption can also be quite inconvenient as it needs to be mixed with cold or hot drinks and the taste may not be exactly pleasant.
3. Marine Collagen Powder by Vida Glow
Key differentiators: Greatly reduces wrinkles
Pros:
Marine collagen peptides
Heat stable
Sustainably sourced
No unnecessary ingredients or additives
Widely available online
Positive feedback from readers
Vida Glow's marine collagen powder is a premium brand of powdered collagen supplement. This is a good option with a good amount of collagen per 2 servings, and can be a go-to daily collagen supplement. As its powder is tasteless and just comprises marine collagen, it can easily be mixed into your everyday beverages, making regular use quite practical. However, liquid supplements are thought to be a preferable format since research has shown that liquids often have a greater absorption rate than powders.
While Vida Glow does have a subscription option that allows you to save some money per order, their absolute price of 140 AUD may be a barrier for some customers.
4. Collagen Peptides by Vital Proteins
Key differentiators: Widely available online
Pros:
20g of Collagen per serving
Popular brand
No sugars and artificial flavorings
Widely available online
Contains Vitamin C & Hyaluronic Acid
Collagen Peptides by Vital Proteins is a high-quality powdered collagen supplement and is one of the more well-known brands in the market.
This type of collagen is soluble in hot or cold liquids, making it easy to mix in beverages like water, smoothies, and some even to their morning coffee.
The supplement from Vital Proteins contains grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen that helps support healthy hair, skin, bones and joints. A scooper is included to measure 2 scoops of powder per serving - which contains 20g of Collagen Powder. The collagen powder is flavorless and free of gluten, dairy, and cholesterol.
It is also stated to contain high levels of Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid. However, some reviews have shown that the inclusions of these two are inconsistent.
This soluble collagen supplement is a good option that offers a good amount of collagen if you want your daily collagen intake to be mixed into your daily drinks or food.
5. Deep Collagen by The Beauty Chef
Key differentiator: Sustainable collagen supplement
Pros:
Contains certified sustainable marine collagen peptides
Delicious taste
Deep Collagen is one of the more popular brands in the market. According to the website, it is recommended to be mixed into "150mL of water, your favourite drink or a smoothie" and that it has to be consumed immediately. Additionally, this fine collagen powder hydrolysed marine collagen that is sourced from wild-caught, deep-sea North Atlantic cod, exclusively and sustainably sourced in accordance with stringent Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) standards.
However, they don't specifically say how much collagen one serving takes, and they recommend taking it at least 3 times per day. This collagen supplement is also not recommended for pregnant women and those who are under 15.
Buying The Best Collagen Supplement in Australia
Our body’s collagen production naturally decreases over time, so it’s ideal to take collagen supplements that prevent a lack of this substance that keeps our skin, nails, hair, joints, and bones in their top shape.
It’s important to check the nutritional values of the drinks and powders you’re considering to buy and compare their health standards and especially collagen contents for optimum collagen absorption and to reap the benefits that come with it.
Best Product Overall: Collagen Glow Berries
30 Sachets
Clinically proven to: Firm, Lift, & Moisturize skin
Collagen peptide: 5,500mg premium grade Japan Nitta-Wellnex™
Infused with: 250mg Vitamin C & 100mg Bilberry extract
Lightly sweetened with: Real fruit juice
Risk-free money back guarantee
Sustainably-harvested from: Tilapia fishes
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