If taking better care of your body (both inside and out) is among your health goals, chances are you may be considering adding collagen to your daily health and beauty regimen.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and the main component of connective tissue. It is made up of key amino acids that help the body synthesize new collagen, which in turn supports healthy skin, hair, and nails, along with providing other benefits such as muscle health.
However, because normal collagen production starts to decline with age, taking a collagen supplement may provide added support as we get older—but what’s the best way to do that?
First, let’s talk diet.
Aside from being present in the human body, collagen can also be found in the connective tissue of animals, as well as in the scales, fins, and bones of fish. So, it would seem likely that we could simply boost our collagen stores by eating more meat and fish, right?
Not necessarily.
We usually do not consume the parts of animals and fish that provide collagen. In addition, the small amount consumed is often considerably less than the amount demonstrated in human studies to offer benefits. Thus, it makes sense to get additional collagen by other means.
Most women will tell you dietary supplements are the way to go.
Taking a readily absorbable dietary collagen supplement provides us with the amino acids our bodies need to produce collagen, which is important in supporting healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints.*
In supplement form, collagen may be labeled collagen peptides, hydrolyzed collagen, or collagen hydrolysate, which indicates that the collagen has been broken down into smaller, easy-to-absorb pieces. You have a few product delivery options to choose from, so let’s take a look at each.
Capsules or tablets
Whether it’s a multivitamin, a daily probiotic, or collagen, many people find tablets or capsules to be the easiest and most convenient way to take their supplements. If that’s you, NeoCell has a full line of hydrolyzed collagen capsules and tablets to get you started.
Gummies and chewables
Who doesn’t love a supplement that brings a little dose of sweetness to your day? Collagen gummies and chewables are great for those who don’t like swallowing pills but still like to take their supplements on the go.
Liquid
Another good option for those who don’t like to take tablets or capsules, liquid supplements are a simple way to add a dose of collagen to your daily routine.
Powder
You’re already blending up that morning smoothie anyway, so why not add a scoop of collagen powder? This is definitely one of the most popular ways to take collagen; it’s versatile (mixes with any beverage or soft food), convenient (goes anywhere), and it dissolves almost instantly in whatever you add it to.
What’s the best time to take collagen?
We recommend taking your collagen supplement at the same time every morning. However, there is really no wrong way to take collagen. If you prefer to take your supplement each night before bed, that’s okay too. Just remember to take your supplement every day to derive the benefits. Clinical studies have shown that taking collagen may promote healthy collagen formation throughout the body.
