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.
CROWD FAVOURITE PRODUCT: Collagen Glow Berries
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.
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 Malaysia
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 andfeedback 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. Marine Collagen Peptides by The Purest Co
Key differentiators: Affordable, Superior ingredients
Pros:
Has 5,000mg of patented Marine Collagen Peptides & 50mg of Water Bamboo Extract
Includes Beta-Carotene
Free SG delivery on all orders
Manufactured in FDA-Registered Facility
Affordable
The Purest Co's Marine Collagen Peptides feature a generous 5,000 mg of top-quality marine collagen peptides in every scoop. Sustainably sourced from wild-caught fish found in the North Atlantic Ocean, this product is further enriched with beneficial components such as beta-carotene and water bamboo extract from Zizania latifolia, effectively shielding the skin from free radical damage and promoting a radiant complexion.
Infused with Peach and Cherry Blossoms, the flavor of this supplement is both delightful and well-balanced, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness and subtlety. The infusion also contributes to effective skin hydration and moisturization, making it a perfect choice for those aiming to rejuvenate their skin from the inside out.
In conclusion, The Purest Co's Marine Collagen Peptides offer a unique formulation and refreshing taste, making it an excellent and affordable collagen supplement for anyone seeking noticeable results.
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.
Key differentiator: Popular, well-known brand
Pros:
Available in unflavored and flavored types
Contains Vitamin C
High dose of collagen per scoop
Neocell’s Collagen supplement contains 6g of collagen per serving. They utilize types 1 & 3 of collagen, and provide a keto-certified and gluten-free daily collagen supplement. Neocell uses hydrolyzed collagen that provides the body building blocks that aid in collagen formation.
According to their website, the suggested way of taking it is by dissolving and mixing it into your favorite beverages and taking it with an empty stomach. However, this format isn’t ideal for people who are on-the-go and have little time every morning to prepare a supplement.
Additionally, their product listing notes that this product may contain traces of sulfite residue - a chemical preservative.
Key differentiator: Healthy dose of Vitamin C
Pros:
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides
Contains daily dose of Vitamin C
Similar to the majority of collagen supplements in the market, Youtheory’s collagen capsules contains Vitamin C, which helps against the effects of aging and revitalizes skin, hair and nails.
This brand offers a gluten-free daily supplement, while using hydrolyzed collagen. Youtheory contains 6,000mg of collagen per serving, with 18 amino acids and highly absorbable peptides. However, adults require taking 6 capsules per day to ensure optimum daily collagen intake.
Customer feedback shows that this can get quite tedious. This is also not recommendable for those who have a hard time swallowing or taking supplements in pill or capsule format.
Buying The Best Collagen Supplement in Malaysia
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
Best Value for Money: Marine Collagen Peptides
30 Servings
Clinically proven to: Firm, Lift, & Moisturize skin
Collagen peptide: 5000mg of patented Marine Collagen Peptides
Enriched with: 50mg of Water Bamboo Extract and Beta-Carotene
Lightly sweetened with: Real peach juice
Risk-free money back guarantee
Sustainably-harvested from: wild Norwegian Cod
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