Video Credit: Dr. Arsalan Aspires
You've probably heard about collagen – the protein that provides strength and flexibility to our skin, bones, and muscles.
As we age, collagen levels begin to decline, giving rise to skin aging and other related issues.
In this article, we'll talk about the the effectiveness of collagen supplements, the best collagen supplements in Malaysia, and the top mistakes to avoid when incorporating these supplements into your health routine.
The Importance of Collagen
Collagen acts as the building blocks for our body. It contributes to the firmness of our skin, the resilience of our bones, and the toughness of our muscles.
Unfortunately, as we age, our body's collagen production diminishes, leading to the emergence of wrinkles. The chief contributor to aging skin is the decline of collagen – the very component responsible for maintaining youthful skin.
Collagen levels start to deplete at age 20
Do Collagen Supplements Actually Work?
One of the prevailing questions surrounding collagen supplementation is whether the body can absorb it effectively.
Contrary to misconceptions, research reveals that ingested collagen isn't entirely destroyed by stomach acids. Instead, it breaks down into smaller di-and tripeptides.
These peptides survive hydrolysis and traverse the intestinal mucosa via a specialized transporter, PEPT-1, and ultimately finding their way to our skin.
In essence, the collagen we consume do indeed reach our skin!
How Does Collagen Reverse Aging?
To grasp how collagen combats aging, let's explore the role of fibroblasts.
These cells play a vital role in maintaining the firmness of our skin. However, as we age, they become less active, allowing destructive enzymes called MMPs (matrix metallopeptidases) to take over.
MMPs degrade collagen, causing our skin to lose its tautness. Collagen supplements come to the rescue by stimulating fibroblast activity.
When these cells become more active, they work to repair our skin's structure and combat the effects of the harmful MMPs, thereby reversing skin aging.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid with Collagen Supplements
1. Not controlling stress
High stress levels increase cortisol production, which reduces collagen production. Stress management through activities like exercise, laughter, and yoga is important.
2. Not getting enough vitamin C
Adequate vitamin C is crucial for collagen function. It serves as a cofactor for collagen and elastin synthesis and acts as an antioxidant against collagen-damaging free radicals.
3. Not getting enough sleep
Lack of sleep compromises the immune system, slowing collagen production. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night is ideal.
4. Drinking collagen hot
Collagen supplements should only be taken at room temperature or with a cold beverage, as collagen falls apart as temperatures above body temperature.
5. Skipping sunscreen
Even with collagen supplements, using sunscreen is crucial. UVA rays penetrate deeply and break down collagen. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and consider physical sunscreens for immediate protection.
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:
Key differentiators: Superior ingredients, large amount of collagen
Pros:
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides from Japan
Contains complementary ingredients
Made in an FDA-approved facility
Cons:
Frequently out of stock
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.
Key differentiators: Comprehensive formulation, diverse supporting ingredients
Pros:
Antioxidant support with vitamins A, C & E
Cons:
Tablet form may be inconvenient for some people
Swisse Ultiboost Collagen Plus boasts a well-rounded formulation that includes collagen hydrolysate, hyaluronic acid, copper, beta-carotene, and vitamins C & E. This blend is designed to provide comprehensive nourishment and support for overall wellbeing.
The inclusion of Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen formation, contributing to the health and maintenance of connective tissues. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of vitamins A, C & E provide protection against oxidative stress by free radicals.
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
