From improving your dull skin to your joint health, there is promising evidence that shows Collagen could be the holy grail when it comes to ingestible supplements. Let’s start with the basics: Collagen is a protein. In fact, it’s the most abundant protein in the human body. It’s formed through chains of amino acids that act as building blocks. Some essential amino acids include Glycine and Proline, which help with the formation of collagen.
Our natural collagen production starts to slow down as we age. Once we reach our 20’s, we produce around 1% less Collagen per year. That’s just one of the many reasons why taking a Collagen supplement is so important! Just as there are many types and varieties, there are also many benefits. Collagen can help with skin elasticity, joint pain, anti-aging, gut health, and overall health.
What is bioavailability?
The nutrients in our food are broken down into smaller molecules first in the stomach and then in the intestinal tract. Once some of the molecules are small enough, they can be absorbed across the wall of the intestine into the bloodstream.
In this frame, bioavailability refers to how accessible a nutrient is within the food, to which extent it is “freed” broken down from the food matrix, transported and absorbed into the bloodstream.
The health benefits of collagen peptides are well-known. There are numerous studies demonstrating their efficacy. A recent study (published in December 2019) has expanded our understanding of how and why collagen peptides are so effective. The main benefits are hinged on their bioavailability and bioactivity. As mentioned, these are two of the most important elements of delivering benefits to the end-user.
Collagen peptides are a mix of short-chain peptides consisting of two to twenty amino acids. Once taken up, collagen peptides go through important modifications in the body. Digestive enzymes break down these chains into smaller pieces (e.g. di- and tripeptides), easily absorbable by the body and measurable in the blood after collagen peptide supplementation.
An increased level of dipeptides in the blood was observed after oral Collagen supplements. The two most abundant dipeptides in Collagen supplements are hydroxyproline-glycine (Hyp-Gly) and proline-hydroxyproline (Pro-Hyp), well-known for their bioactivity. For example, in the case of skin beauty, cells in specific skin layers are stimulated to produce water-binding hyaluronic acid increasing the level of moisture in the skin.
Collagen peptides can partially survive digestion, which means they pass through the gut barrier and remain intact. Thus, they can ultimately get to work in the body’s targeted tissues. Interestingly, Collagen peptides are particularly effective at promoting selected health benefits. During the production process, for example, the chains can be fine-tuned to obtain collagen peptides that directly target cartilage growth, firmer skin or stronger bones.
To put it concisely, collagen peptides consist of a chain of amino acids — with the long protein chains being effectively cut into smaller ones by an enzymatic process. This means not only will they be easily absorbed, but also made more effective, compared with native collagen and other proteins.
Does Collagen get absorbed within the body?
Yes, collagen does get absorbed. It is absorbed in the digestive system. Once it is digested, it enters your bloodstream. That way, it can travel all over your body and assist with any of the issues we mentioned above. Marine Collagen peptides, or hydrolyzed marine collagen, is your best bet for successful absorption. Sometimes, collagen particles can be too large to be digested, and will simply be expelled from your body. When the collagen is in peptide or hydrolyzed form, it is already broken down into much tinier particles, and therefore can be digested and absorbed. Marine Collagen peptide supplementation is a great place to start when you want to try out collagen and see if it works for you. Another reason to try collagen is that there are no known side effects, so it’s great to try and see how it affects your body.
Why is Marine Collagen superior?
Marine collagen is proven to be 1.5 times more bioavailable than other sources of Collagen. This means that Marine collagen is more easily absorbed by the body than other sources. Marine collagen has also been known to be the best at helping with skin issues, such as skin hydration as it contains type 1 collagen. Marine collagen is also one of the better choices for clean supplements as there is much less chance of contamination.
What is the ideal way to absorb collagen?
The best way to absorb collagen is to let your body do the work! When you consume collagen, enzymes in your stomach break it down and utilize the amino acids to address issues in your skin and body. It is then absorbed through your bloodstream and travels to areas in your body that need the most help.
For example, if your collagen levels are low and you have issues with achy joints, collagen will be sent to address it, such as fine lines and signs of aging. Oral supplementation, along with eating foods that either contain collagen or boost your natural production, is the best way to absorb it into your body and increase your collagen levels. Foods that contain Vitamin C are helpful for increasing collagen production.
What is the best time to take Collagen supplements?
Another great thing about collagen is that it really doesn’t matter. It’s all about what works for your body. You really have to try taking it at different times to see what works best for you. Some people like to take it in the morning since it is the most consistent part of their day. Others argue taking it at night will help it work better, because that is when the body naturally repairs itself and can use the collagen to assist with this. The truth is, you’ll get the benefits no matter what time of day you take it. There is no real evidence to suggest either time is better than the other. Empty stomach or full stomach, what matters is taking Collagen supplements every single day to completely ensure benefits.
Give your body the Collagen supplement it requires. INJA Marine Collagen is clinically proven to improve the condition of your skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, INJA Collagen supplements also improve your hair, nails, joints, muscles, bones, ligaments and much more! Head onto our website injawellness.com to order yours today!