How to Choose the Best Collagen Supplement

How to Choose the Best Collagen Supplement

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in your body, making up nearly a third of your total protein content. But by the age of 40, your body produces approximately 25% less collagen, hence the need for supplementing with a good collagen [1].

South African shelves and online stores are overflowing with collagen brands, all promising amazing results—but how many truly deliver? This guide will help you cut through the marketing noise, using science-backed insights to understand collagen types, benefits, and what factors to consider before making your purchase.

Understanding Collagen and Its Importance

Collagen forms the structural foundation for your skin, bones, joints, and connective tissues, comprising about 30% of your body's proteins [1]. It’s primarily made of amino acids glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and arginine, arranged in a unique triple-helix structure, granting collagen exceptional strength and stability [2].

Why Collagen Production Declines with Age

From around your mid-20s, collagen production declines by about 1% annually [3]. This loss accelerates during menopause, with women potentially experiencing a 30% drop within five years [3]. Collagen fibers also become thicker and fragmented over time, resulting in visible signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging skin [3].

The Science Behind Collagen Supplements

Your body doesn't absorb whole collagen molecules. Instead, it can use hydrolyzed collagen peptides—smaller, more absorbable fragments. Clinical studies have shown that these peptides can remain active in the body for days, effectively stimulating collagen synthesis in targeted tissues like skin, bones, and joints [4].

Clinical trials have shown measurable improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and reduced wrinkles within 6-12 weeks of consistent collagen supplementation [5]. Joint health studies also report decreased pain and improved function when regularly consuming collagen peptides [6].

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Collagen Supplement

Collagen Source: Marine vs. Bovine

• Marine collagen: Typically derived from fish and known for its great absorption due to smaller molecule sizes [7].

  
  

• Bovine collagen: Derived from cows and closely matches human collagen structurally. Ideal for comprehensive skin, bone, and connective tissue support [7].

Always opt for quality sources—such as wild-caught fish or grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine collagen—to ensure purity and effectiveness [8].

Supplement Form: Powder, Capsules, or Liquid

Pills and gummies have become very popular in recent years, but they often contain lower amounts or dosages for optimal health. Gummies are often also filled with additives, fillers, or sugars.

Best options for collagen are simply powders. Powders are versatile, easily mixed into smoothies, coffee, or meals, and typically deliver the optimal dose.

Dosage and Bioavailability

Uvora’s Collagen is known for its superior bioavailability due to its small molecular weight. Smaller molecular weight means better absorption. Our range of collagen products ranges from 2.5g per serving to 15g for larger target areas such as muscle [10].

Smell and Texture

High-quality collagen supplements typically have minimal to no noticeable smell and a fine, easily dissolvable texture. Lower quality collagen may appear visibly coarser and possess a stronger odour, indicating lower purity and processing standards.

Safety, Side Effects, and Considerations

Collagen supplements are generally safe, with few side effects reported. However, people with specific allergies or dietary restrictions should pay close attention to product labels. Possible mild side effects include digestive discomfort or an unpleasant taste, primarily with unflavored options [11].

Always start with a smaller dose to assess your tolerance, particularly if you're new to supplementation or have sensitive digestion.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the best collagen supplement involves understanding your personal health goals, the source of collagen, the form in which you prefer to incorporate it into your routine, and ensuring quality without unnecessary additives. With this knowledge, you can confidently navigate the market, choosing a collagen product like our premium hydrolyzed bioactive collagen peptides, specifically formulated for maximum absorption, purity, effectiveness where you need it most.

References:

[1] Cleveland Clinic

[2] PMC & PubMed studies

[3] Healthline, Everyday Health, and WebMD

[4] BBC Health and MedicineNet

[5] Harvard Health Publications

[6] PMC & PubMed studies

[7] Healthline

[8] BBC Health

[9] Everyday Health

[10] WebMD

[11] Harvard Health Publications