Collagen 101
I’ve really surprised myself here - I can’t believe I’ve waited until now to write about one of my favorite daily supplements, COLLAGEN. I use collagen every day, and as an athlete, I see real, tangible results in performance and recovery. I’m going to lay it all out for you in this blog, so you have the information to make an informed decision about collagen in your daily routine.
Reasons I personally started using collagen:
I had real hopes that it would improve fine lines and wrinkles
Joint improvement - I have a bum knee (meniscus tear) and uncooperative ankles
Help me reach my protein intake goal
I am going to speak specifically about Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides with HLA and Vitamin C, because that is the collagen I’ve been using for over a year, and I swear by it. Collagen peptides are made by breaking down whole collagen into smaller pieces. When taken by mouth, these smaller components tend to build up in the skin and cartilage, which can help improve some skin and joint conditions. An easy way to think about it is that collagen is the glue that holds us together, and as we age, we produce less, so supplements can help us maintain the collagen in our bodies and repair where we are lacking.
The best part about taking collagen is that there aren’t many side effects. Some people have reported feeling full or bloated, or having heartburn as a result, but I’ve never experienced these things.
I love that all Vital Proteins and Vital Performance supplements are NSF Certified for sport and are regularly audited, so I never have to wonder if I’m getting what the company is claiming. I also want to address the fact that VP collagen is made from animal hide, so it is not a vegan or vegetarian source of collagen. You can visit the website to read about how their process is sustainable.
Collagen peptides have been proven effective in anti-aging skin, via increasing elasticity and hydration. Some people have reported noticeable differences in their skin and claim to have less wrinkles. I believe it has helped my skin as well, and even made a few scars less noticeable. Collagen has also proven effective in osteoarthritis treatment. Collagen peptides may improve joint function and reduce pain, though it may take a few months to notice a real difference. I will say that my experience has been exactly that. At first I wasn’t sold, but now that I’ve been using it for so long, I would never stop. Plus, I get 20g of protein with each serving of collagen peptides!
Collagen hasn’t had reported adverse effects or interactions with medications, and so far is reported safe to use. Because the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, it can sometimes be hard to locate this information, and it is ever changing, so be sure to do your research and ask for help if you need it.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides - add to protein shakes, smoothies, oatmeal bowls, any hot or cold liquid
Vital Proteins Chocolate Collagen Peptides - tastes like Nesquik