Collagen Supplements: Benefits, Types, Function, and More

The supplement industry is booming as more people realise that what they put in their bodies impacts their overall health and well-being. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that performs numerous functions, including supporting the skin, hair, nails and joints. 

Unfortunately, our body produces less protein as we age, causing various effects. Supplements are the best way to give your body a healthy dose of collagen—but how do you know which brand is right for your needs? 

We're about to cover that and much more in our complete guide to collagen supplements. You'll learn the importance of collagen and the types available, and we'll reveal our top five choices for supplements that will boost your well-being. 

What is Collagen?

The body requires vital proteins for functioning, and collagen is the most important—accounting for 30%. Made from a combination of amino acids, collagen supports bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and skin while protecting vital organs. 

It promotes the production of new skin cells, maintains the skin's elasticity and ensures the blood can clot properly. There are five primary types of collagen, including: 

1. Type I collagen is the most common type, accounting for 90% of all collagen produced by the body. It plays a central role in creating structure for the ligaments, tendons, bones and skin
2. Type II collagen supports elastic cartilage in the joints, ensuring flexibility and strength. 
3. Type III collagen protein provides vital support for the organs, muscles and arteries. 
4. Type IV is essential for the layers of your skin, ensuring new cells can grow. 
5. Type V collagen occurs in the skin, but it's also found in placenta tissue and the corneas. 

Why Do Collagen Levels Reduce Over Time?

Children and young adults have optimal collagen levels, but production decreases between 25 and 49. As people reach their senior years, this process speeds up, causing issues with the skin and bones (NCBI). 

While some people associate collagen loss and supplementation with women, men also require collagen for vital functions. 

So, why does collagen production halt when a person ages? There are numerous reasons, including: 

• Fibroblast Cells: Fibroblast cells are catalysts for collagen production, but they decrease in efficiency over time, making it hard to create enough collagen through natural processes alone. 
• Senescence: Age also plays a factor in cell senescence - where the cells struggle to divide and function properly.
• Lifestyle Factors: While collagen loss is unavoidable, some people might experience accelerated symptoms due to excess sun exposure, an unhealthy diet and smoking.  
• Breakdown: Collagen always breaks down, and the fibroblast cells replace it with new collagen. When the breakdown rates exceed production, a deficiency occurs. 

What is Collagen Good For?

Now that you know the effects of collagen, it's time to reveal why supplements are so important. Daily supplements can offer numerous benefits, including preventing premature aging and supporting overall health. 

Skin health 

As an integral building block for the skin, collagen ensures elasticity and structure. That's why you see so many collagen-infused creams and lotions. With regular use, it can prevent wrinkles from forming and keep your skin looking younger. 

Stronger bones and joints 

Bone and joint pain are common issues due to ageing or nutritional deficiencies. Collagen supports the cartilage, ensuring it can cushion the joints and reduce pain. According to research from PubMed, collagen supplements can also increase bone mineral density. 

Hair and nail growth

Collagen is essential for producing keratin, which facilitates hair and nail growth while preserving their strength. If you suffer from brittle nails or experience split ends, collagen can promote healthier hair and nails. 

Our Top 5 Collagen Supplements 

Now that you know more about collagen and why it's a beneficial supplement, it's time to reveal our top five picks. We looked at reviews, price points, and ingredients, narrowing our selection to five winning brands. 

Here, they are in no particular order. 

Natural Factors: Total Body Marine Collagen 

Total Body Marine Collagen is a powerful supplement that is a worthy alternative to beef collagen. Made by Natural Factors, the powder-based supplement is easy to mix with water and juice for on-the-go health benefits. 

With additional support from Biotin, L-Glutamine and Hyaluronic Acid, one scoop offers a range of benefits, including fewer wrinkles, hair and skin support, hydration and stronger bones. 

With an ISURA seal, the supplement is of the highest quality, making it a safe option. Total Body Marine Collagen also uses wild-caught fish, offering users powerful ingredients without compromising sustainability. 

Regular supplementation is also clinically proven to reduce wrinkles in just 28 days, making Total Body Marine Collagen a worthy addition to your daily intake. 

Pros:

• Proven to offer results in terms of skin health 
• It's easy to use and dissolves with water or juice 
• Sustainably sourced 
• Contains rare marine collagen peptides 

Cons: 

• Some people might find the taste is too strong 
• It's unsuitable if you don't like mixing powder supplements 

Organika Enhanced Collagen

Organika's Enhanced Collagen blend was created to promote relaxation and increase hair and nail strength. Made with collage sourced from bovine skin, it contains vital collage types for your hair, nails and internal organs. 

Lysine and proline also boost collagen production in the body, enhancing digestive system function and energy levels. Mix them with your favourite drink and enjoy the simple way to boost your overall health. 

Many people notice the supplement relieves joint pain. For convenience, it quickly dissolves into coffee, water, and juice. 

Pros:

• The subtle flavour makes it easy to enjoy 
• Promotes healthy hair and nail growth 
• Sourced from bovine skin 
• Individuals with joint pain can benefit from a daily dose

Cons:

• It can cause side effects in some people, including rashes 
• Not suitable for people who avoid meat 

Progressive Complete Collagen (Citrus Twist)

Progressive has a range of cost-effective supplements, but the Complete Collagen blends are our favourite. Choose between citrus, tropical or unflavoured for a convenient way to power up your body. 

The collagen is sourced from grass-fed cattle, ensuring high-quality collagen with every scoop. It also contains a powerful dose of Vitamin C, boosting your body's collagen production levels. 

Designed for people with active lifestyles, using Progressive Complete Collagen will give you more energy, protect your bones and enhance joint flexibility. It's an affordable supplement that dissolves into water and contains just 40 calories per serving. 

Pros:

• Pre-flavoured, making it easier to drink
• Sourced from grass-fed cattle 
• No antibiotics or hormones 
• Designed for quick absorption 

Cons: 

• Some people don't like the flavours 
• It requires more mixing than some other powders 

Smart Solutions: Collagen Plus

Vegans usually struggle to find collagen supplements, but Smart Solutions can solve all their problems. The company's Collagen Plus blend is suitable for vegans and contains no ingredients derived from animals. 

Available in liquid form, follow the instructions and place around ten drops into water or juice. With no traces of glutes or GMOs, it's also ideal for health-conscious individuals. 

Each drop is packed with collagen and biotin, promoting stronger nails and healthier hair. While Collagen Plus is designed to help hair, skin, and nails, its ingredients can also protect bones and joints. 

Better still, the solution has a mild taste, making it easy to add to your daily intake. 

Pros:

• The liquid format is easy to use and dissolves quickly 
• Many users notice initial results within a week
• Each pack lasts around three months 
• Proven hair and nail support 

Cons:

• Some people might not notice changes for a while 
• Putting the drops onto your skin can cause reactions 

Sproos Marine Collagen

Sourced from wild Atlantic fish, Sproos Marine Collagen is packed with hydrolyzed collagen, which is beneficial for adding structure to the skin and enhancing its elasticity. 

If you like flexibility, this supplement dissolves into warm and hot drinks, making it convenient for morning and evening usage. As a full-service solution, it boosts bone and joint health while also providing energy. 

Suitable for people on paleo and keto diets, Sproos Marine Collagen offers numerous benefits with frequent usage. 

Pros:

• No noticeable smells 
• Suitable for individuals following specific diets 
• Dissolves easily in hot and warm drinks 
• Contains sustainable collagen from reputable sources

Cons: 

• The powder can clump when dissolved into cold drinks. 
• Some people find there's a distinctive taste. 

Enhance your health with high-quality collagen supplements 

Collagen is a vital protein that can help you look and feel younger. If you're looking for the best supplements, Lifestyle Markets is your go-to place. We stock collagen supplements from the most reputable brands, including Natural Factors and Organika. 

With speedy delivery and great prices, shopping with us is a stress-free experience. Please feel free to contact us if you require any support. 

FAQs

Should I take collagen supplements daily? 

Yes, if you want to experience their benefits. Regular collagen will be more effective than a one-off dose, so be sure to follow the instructions for your chosen brand. 

Who should avoid taking collagen?

If you have an allergy or sensitivity to any of the listed ingredients, you should avoid taking your chosen supplement and choose an alternative. 

Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions and pregnant or breastfeeding women should speak to their healthcare professional before using collagen. 

What time of day is best to take collagen?

There's no set time, but most people take collagen in the morning, as it sets them up for the day. Whether you prefer taking it in the morning or evening, remember to maintain a consistent schedule for optimal benefits. 

Which form of collagen is best?

Both marine and bovine collagen are rich in the essential protein. While marine supplements are more geared towards the skin and hair, bovine collagen can also support the organs and joint health. 

Ultimately, the best form of collagen for your needs depends on any dietary restrictions and the results you want to achieve with regular usage. 

Which foods are high in collagen?

There are numerous foods that contain high amounts of collagen, including: 

1. Egg whites 
2. Chicken skin 
3. Fish 
4. Gelatin 
5. Shellfish 
6. Bone broth
7. Citrus fruits, including grapefruits and lemons
8. Leafy greens 

Shop our selection of collagen supplements online

Lifestyle Markets has the best prices for vitamins and supplements in Canada. We have an extensive selection of collagen supplements, and we ship Canada-wide - free shipping over $79. Discover how collagen supplements can benefit you today.