Collagen is a vital protein that helps keep our skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones healthy. It's no wonder that many people are turning to collagen supplements to reap the potential benefits. But with so many collagen supplements on the market, it can be hard to know which one is best for you. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the different types of collagen, their potential benefits, and the best collagen supplements available. There are five main types of collagen: type 1, type 2, type 3, type 4, and type 5.Type 1 collagen is the most abundant in the body and is found in skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Type 2 collagen is important for joint health as it forms cartilage and helps give it elasticity and strength for optimal joint movement. Type 3 collagen is found in muscles and organs and helps give structure to cells. Type 4 collagen is found in the basement membrane of cells and helps regulate cell movement. Finally, type 5 collagen is found in hair follicles and helps give structure to hair. Collagen supplements often come in powder form, which can be mixed with water or coffee, or in pill, tablet, gummy, or liquid form.
If you're interested in trying it and it feels like a worthwhile investment, you can add collagen powder to smoothies, baked goods, yogurt, oatmeal, gummies, and even soups.
Top 5 Collagen Supplements
Vital Proteins Original Collagen Peptide Collagen Powders: This tasteless collagen peptide powder comes in a 20-pack of individual packets that take up minimal cabinet or counter space. One serving contains 10 grams of protein and reviewers say it works wonders for the skin. Bubs Naturals Collagen Protein: This collagen protein comes in a creamy chocolate flavor that's lightly sweetened with stevia. It contains 13 grams of bovine collagen per serving and reviewers say it tastes great in everything from coffee to smoothies and oatmeal overnight. Thorne Collagen Plus: This supplement contains Verisol collagen which has demonstrated skin health benefits in several placebo-controlled studies. It also contains a blend of polyphenols and other ingredients such as probiotics, vitamin C, biotin and silica. Ancient Nutrition Multiple Collagen Protein: This supplement contains a blend of five types of collagen intended to support healthy skin, hair, nails, joints and bones. Momentous Collagen Powder: This hydrolyzed collagen powder is tasteless and designed to dissolve easily in your favorite drinks, shakes and smoothies.It requires mixing 2 teaspoons into your beverage of choice every day providing 2.9 grams of collagen per serving.
Potential Benefits & Risks
Many people try to add collagen to their diet to reap its potential benefits such as improving skin complexion and reducing joint pain. However, there is limited research on the long-term effects of taking collagen supplements so it's important to speak with your doctor before taking any supplement. Although not common, collagen supplements may contain contaminants such as lead, arsenic or cadmium which is a carcinogen and a kidney toxin. Additionally, Cole notes that some people may notice a return to their previous state of well-being before taking collagen once they stop taking it.Conclusion
Collagen supplements are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to improve their health. With so many different types of collagen on the market it can be hard to know which one is best for you.We hope this guide has helped you understand the different types of collagen available as well as their potential benefits and risks.
