What are Collagen Peptides? The Scoop & Top Reasons to Use

Collagen peptides are a non-vegan animal derived substance that is essentially produced from gelatin that's been completely hydrolyzed from collagen. Commercial gelatin, is typically only partially hydrolyzed which produces a thick gel and larger molecular weight.

The results of full hydrolysis provide smaller amino acids called "peptides". These short chain molecules are known to be rapidly absorbed and utilized nutritionally to support the body's collagen matrix.

The initial collagen source is extracted from the skin, connective tissues or bones of either domesticated cow (bovine), chicken (poultry), pigs (porcine) and sometimes fish. Most we have come across are sourced from bovine hide.

Individual use for specific needs can depend on the type of collagen it's made from, either type I, II or III. Typically, most collagen-based supplement powders are made up of Type I and III like those found in bovine and are good for the bone, skin and connective tissue.

Type II, often in marine sources, is known to be especially nutritive to the cartilage and joints.

Of course, the many benefits of collagen peptides revolve around its nutritionally fortifying effect on increasing collagen levels.

Consuming a supplement powder helps you get your daily dose of amino acids, like glycine, hydroxyproline and proline, which are very high in parts of animals people normally don't eat. These are the three most abundant found in the collagen triple helix.

Collagen fiber in the human body is the main structural protein of the connective tissues which bind the bones and other tissues to one another.

When we eat collagen-rich foods or supplements like collagen peptides, we can help to reinforce and improve the health of the skin, nails, joints, tendons and ligaments.

Since bodily collagen degrades as we age, supplementation can offer a preventative approach and help to preserve collagen levels. This is where it becomes especially popular as a beauty potion for things like wrinkles, reduced mobility or joint discomfort.

Celebrity-loved collagen powder is top on the super supplement list for maintaining youthful features like supple smooth skin, thick hair growth and hard strong nails. Bovine-sourced collagen peptides are said to be the best for moisturizing the epidermis layer and diminishing fine lines.

In some research, long-term use of hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides) was found to improve "skin hydration and elasticity" on subjects tested.

Collagen peptides are also a common supplement in sports nutrition as a type of protein powder because they encourage healthy physical movement and help to build muscle mass.

Likewise, powders can be very nourishing when healing from bone-related injuries or joint sprains that affect tendons and ligaments.

Bodily collagen can also be enhanced by consuming certain food sources, like gelatin-rich bone broth. However, a collagen peptides powder provides a practical means of ensuring adequate intake in an easily digested format.

Generally, you want to purchase a pure collagen peptide supplement with as few filler ingredients as possible. Some may contain maltodextrin, sweeteners, or "natural" flavors, so it's good to read labels if your super picky.

We recommend going with one made from grass-fed pasture-raised bovine (cow) which is the most common source. Organic collagen peptides are also available from some suppliers.

When shopping around for collagen peptides, you may notice products labeled "multi-collagen protein". These are supplements that contain a complex of different ingredients including collagen peptides.

While this list depends on the brand, it often includes other collagen boosting allies like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, bone broth concentrate, probiotics, silica, vitamin E and biotin. Some may even offer different types of collagen (I, II or III), from bovine, poultry and/or fish sources.

As a dietary supplement, collagen peptides are often in powdered form and easily dissolve into liquid.

They can be used in any number of blended drinks or even added to the ritual cup of coffee.

Since they're highly bioavailable, they are often utilized commercially to fortify many foods like protein bars, cereals, beverages and desserts.

Likewise, collagen peptide powder is very versatile and can be used in many homemade recipes from desserts to sauces to up nutritional uptake.

The average recommended dose amount is between 10-20 grams/day (about 2-4 Tablespoons). However, this could vary widely depending on your individual needs and health objectives.