Are collagen supplements legit or a grand scam? Let's unveil the science behind the hype.
Ever found yourself lost in the YouTube rabbit hole of dermatologists debating the effectiveness of collagen supplements? One says they're completely useless, while the next is championing their own collagen line like it's the key to eternal youth. Confusing, right?
If you've been left scratching your head amidst the barrage of conflicting information, you're not alone. The world of collagen supplements is rife with misinformation, so let’s clear things up a bit!
In this article, we'll delve into the research and debunk some of the prevalent myths surrounding collagen supplements.
Myth 1: Collagen Supplements are Just a Social Media Fad
Fact: Collagen has been around since the 1970s
You might think collagen supplements are a recent trend fueled by social media. However, the surprising truth is that collagen has been extensively studied since the 1970s.
Initially explored for its role in tissue modulation (1), collagen is far from a mere passing fad, and has been a well-established field of scientific study well before the age of Instagram influencers.
Myth 2: Collagen Can't Be Absorbed by the Body
Fact: Collagen peptides are easily absorbed
One common misconception is that consuming collagen doesn’t do anything because the body cannot absorb it effectively. However, collagen supplements are often hydrolyzed, meaning the collagen molecules are broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed peptides.
Studies indicate that these collagen peptides can indeed be absorbed by the body and incorporated into the skin and joints, promoting tissue repair and regeneration (2).
Myth 3: Collagen is Useless Because it Gets Digested in the Stomach
Fact: Collagen peptides have been shown to survive digestion
Digestion, the supposed graveyard of collagen supplements. Yet, we actually have plenty of evidence that collagen peptides can survive the digestive process intact.
An animal study found that collagen peptides can enter the bloodstream and travel to collagen-dense areas such as the cartilage (3). Similar evidence has been found in humans, proving that collagen peptides are tougher than you might think (4).
Myth 4: Collagen Doesn't Reach the Skin
Fact: We have evidence that collagen makes it to the skin
"But even if collagen survives digestion, does it really make it to the skin?" Yes, there's plenty of evidence.
Studies have found rapid skin accumulation of various collagen peptides in mice shortly after oral collagen supplementation (5). Admittedly, it's more difficult to prove that they reach the skin in humans. But we have evidence of their benefits in human skin to support this notion (6).
A dermatologist on TikTok said they don't work.
So, case closed, right?
Not quite. Many people (including well-known dermatologists), dismiss collagen supplements, citing a lack of proof. Ironically, as we have learned today, collagen stands out as one of the most well-studied ingredients in the beauty world.
While one dermatologist's perspective is valuable, the overwhelming evidence suggests that collagen supplements can make a noticeable difference in skin health. Many individuals have reported positive outcomes after incorporating collagen into their daily routine, experiencing smoother skin, stronger nails, and healthier hair.
Choosing The Right Collagen Supplement
As with any supplement, it's crucial to choose a high-quality product and be consistent with its use to see optimal results. If you're considering adding collagen to your routine, it's important to consider the following factors:
✅ Make Sure They're Collagen Peptides: Choose collagen peptide supplements over whole collagen for better absorption. Collagen peptides are broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed fragments, ensuring they reach where they're needed in the body.
✅ Prioritise Type 1 Collagen: Type 1 collagen is the most abundant in the skin and is particularly effective in promoting skin health, elasticity, and hydration.
✅ Choose Wild-Caught Marine Collagen: Rich in Type 1 collagen, wild-caught marine collagen is considered the purest form and offers the highest bioavailability.
✅ Look for Antioxidant Support: Look for collagen supplements that include key antioxidant ingredients to support collagen protection and production from within. Antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, help combat oxidative stress and promote a healthy environment for collagen synthesis.
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
Disclaimer: The information provided on this platform is intended for general informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content provided here is not exhaustive and may not cover all aspects of a particular medical condition or treatment. The use of information and recommendations provided on this platform is at your own risk. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for accurate medical guidance and do not delay seeking medical assistance based on information obtained from this platform.
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