Not all collagen supplements are created equal - and 4 other misconceptions about collagen.
Collagen supplements have gained significant popularity among celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and the Kardashians, who swear by their anti-aging benefits. While collagen is naturally present in our bodies, we start losing about 1-2% of it every year once we hit our 20s.
To maintain healthy skin, hair, and joints, experts generally recommend considering collagen supplementation starting at 25-30 years old. However, collagen supplements are still widely misunderstood and we're here to debunk the myths and provide clarity on the subject.
Want to know the best-rated collagen supplements on the market? Scroll to the very end to find out!
Myth #1: All collagen supplements are the same
Fact: Collagen type and size make a huge difference
Did you know that there are different forms of collagen, such as whole collagen and collagen peptides?
Collagen peptides are derived from breaking down animal collagen through a process called hydrolysis, resulting in smaller protein structures. Compared to whole collagen, collagen peptides are more easily digested and absorbed by the body. When taking a whole collagen supplement, only a small portion can be utilized by the body, while collagen peptides provide higher bioavailability.
Additionally, opting for a supplement that includes antioxidant ingredients like Water Bamboo Extract and Beta-Carotene ensures that your body receives additional benefits.
Myth #2: The source of collagen doesn't matter
Fact: Wild-caught marine collagen is always the best
When it comes to collagen sources, marine collagen is considered the purest form and offers higher bioavailability compared to bovine collagen derived from cows.
Research shows that marine collagen is absorbed 1.5 times more efficiently than other collagen types. The smaller particle size of marine collagen enables faster absorption in the body, leading to quicker results.
Always choose marine collagen for higher bioavailability and quicker absorption
Myth #3: Collagen is only beneficial for the skin
Fact: Collagen plays a vital role in bone health and offers numerous health benefits
Although collagen is often associated with improving skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging, its benefits extend beyond the realm of beauty.
Collagen is commonly recommended for promoting bone and joint health. Studies demonstrate that collagen supplementation effectively improves symptoms of osteoarthritis and alleviates joint pain caused by cartilage loss.
Additionally, collagen aids in the healing process, making it a valuable inclusion in post-operative routines. Furthermore, collagen supplements can boost metabolism, enhance energy levels, and support gut health.
Collagen supplements have been clinically proven to improve bone & joint health
Myth #4: Restoring the body's own collagen is impossible
Fact: Collagen production can be stimulated naturally
Collagen supplements serve two main purposes: replenishing the collagen lost by the body naturally and stimulating the body's own collagen production.
Opting for supplements that contain antioxidant ingredients not only protect collagen from within but also promote its production.
Antioxidants such as Beta-Carotene can protect collagen from within & stimulate collagen production
Myth #5: Collagen supplementation is unnecessary until old age
Fact: The optimal age to start collagen supplementation is 25
Once we reach the age of 25, collagen depletion occurs at an approximate rate of 1.5% per year. This reduction in collagen leads to visible changes in skin quality and increased joint discomfort with age.
While graceful aging is desirable, we can take proactive steps to slow down the unwanted effects by restoring our natural collagen levels. Except for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, collagen supplementation can benefit individuals of all ages.
Collagen levels start to deplete at age 20
The Bottom Line
In summary, when choosing a collagen supplement, it is important to consider the following factors:
1. Choose collagen peptides supplements rather than whole collagen for better absorption.
2. Choose wild-caught marine collagen as it is considered the purest form and offers the highest bioavailability.
3. Look for key antioxidant ingredients to support collagen protection and production from within.
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
