What are Collagen Peptides? A Brief Introduction

Collagen is an essential protein that acts as structural support for many different parts of the body, including ligaments, hair, skin, nails, and even our gut lining. While collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the body, our collagen levels tend to decrease over time. The side effects of a decrease in collagen can include weak joints, brittle nails, and hair loss. Luckily, it’s easy to supplement your body’s collagen stores by adding collagen peptides to your daily coffee, teas, smoothies, and foods. Adding collagen peptides to your routine can support firmer skin, stronger nails, shinier hair, good digestion, and supple joints. Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of this great supplement. 

What are the Different Types of Collagen? 

There are a variety of types of collagen found in the body. But three main types of collagen are typically used as nutritional supplements: 

• Type I

• • Makes up the majority of the protein in our hair, skin, nails, bones, organs, ligaments, and joints. 
  • Type I collagen peptides can support firmer skin, smoother hair, and stronger nails. 
  • It is known as the most common source of collagen, given its prevalence in the body. 

• Type II

• • Makes up a good portion of the protein in our gut lining and joints.
  • Type II collagen peptides can support a healthy digestive system and stronger joints.
  • Has been known to soothe inflammation related to joint pain and conditions like osteoarthritis.

• Type III

• • Is found in the body alongside Type I collagen that makes up essential ligaments and skin. 
  • Taking Type III collagen peptides can support more robust bones and firmer skin.
  • Often best taken with Type I collagen peptides for a well-rounded nutritional supplement. 

Where Do Collagen Peptides Come From? 

Collagen peptides in supplement form are derived from a variety of sources. The most common include: 

• Bovine 
  • Collagen derived from beef typically falls under Type I and Type III collagen. 
  • It’s essential to look for “grass-fed” bovine collagen to ensure the most nutritious product. When collagen peptides come from “grass-fed” sources, the animals it was derived from were fed a diet free of antibiotics and other chemicals.

• Poultry
  • Collagen derived from poultry typically falls under Type II collagen. 
  • Poultry-based collagen can also be known as “bone broth collagen.” 

• Marine
  • Collagen derived from fish typically falls under Type I collagen. 
  • It’s also an excellent option for pescatarians (people who don’t eat beef, pork, or poultry, but do eat fish).

Are There Plant-Based Alternatives? 

While not technically collagen peptides, there has been a rise in the development of plant-based collagen enhancers for those who adhere to a vegan lifestyle. While these products are less widespread, they include ingredients that claim to support collagen production in the body. 

How to Incorporate Collagen Peptides into your Wellness Routine? 

There are several ways to add collagen peptides to your day. The two most common methods of incorporating collagen include: 

• Mixing them into your favorite beverages. 

• • Collagen peptides are readily soluble, which dissolve well in hot and cold liquid. Many people enjoy adding collagen to their coffee or tea in the morning for a great way to start your day with an added nutritional kick.
  • There are also a variety of existing collagen peptide coffee creamers, which make remembering to put them in your morning brew a breeze!

• Adding them to food, like smoothies, oats, eggs, soups, or baked goods. 

• • As collagen peptides mix well in liquid, it’s also easy to add to your go-to smoothies and snacks to boost protein. 

What Type of Collagen Supplement is Right for You?

While any collagen is good collagen to supplement your daily diet, the type of collagen you choose to add to your wellness regime depends on what you’re looking to support most. For those new to collagen, a bovine blend is usually a great place to start, as it combines Type I and III collagen for a well-rounded introduction to the supplement. 

To Wrap It All Up…

Collagen peptides are an excellent supplement to your diet to increase overall wellness. As collagen constitutes a good majority of the body’s protein, it’s essential to keep collagen levels up to maintain various body areas, including hair, skin, nails, bones, ligaments, and even the gut lining. Unfortunately, when we age, our natural collagen breaks down – and that’s where collagen peptide supplements come in. Whether you choose to take bovine, poultry, or marine collagen peptides, there are many great ways to add them to your day. Now that we’ve introduced and broken down the basics of collagen peptides, what kind do you think you’ll try?