Collagen supplements have gained significant popularity in the natural health industry in recent years, experiencing rapid growth. In 2022, the industry reached a value of 4.7 billion USD, with projections indicating it will reach 7.2 billion USD by 2030 ^[1]. Given this remarkable growth, it is crucial to comprehend what collagen is, its benefits, and key considerations when shopping for collagen supplements.

Collagen stands as the body’s most abundant protein, constituting connective tissue ^[2]. This protein interconnects various tissues within the body and plays a vital role in bones, skin, muscles, tendons, and cartilage ^[2]. Similar to many biological processes, collagen formation diminishes as we age. Consequently, individuals may experience joint discomfort, thinning hair, brittle nails, and skin wrinkling as they grow older. Forecasts suggest that collagen production in individuals over 80 years old diminishes by approximately 75% in comparison to younger individuals aged 18 to 29 ^[3]. This underscores the necessity for additional collagen support as we age, to maintain the health of our skin, joints, and nails.

Collagen supplements offer a valuable means to provide your body with additional support, ensuring youthful-looking skin and agile joints. With a plethora of emerging brands and numerous options available, it is essential to identify key factors to consider when selecting a collagen powder.

Several collagen types are present in the market, with bovine and marine being the most prevalent. When deciding between these options, personal preference plays a significant role.

Bovine collagen is sourced from cattle and typically contains type I and III collagen ^[4]. Type I collagen, the most abundant type, plays a pivotal role in numerous tissues ^[5]. Type III collagen is structurally important in hollow organs such as blood vessels, the uterus, and the bowels ^[6]. Both of these collagen types promote skin and joint health. When selecting bovine collagen, it’s important to consider the source. Opting for collagen sourced from North America is often recommended to reduce your carbon footprint and show environmental consciousness.

Marine collagen originates from fish and predominantly consists of type I collagen, supplemented by type II collagen ^[7]. As mentioned earlier, type I collagen is essential, and type II collagen aids in maintaining cartilage between joints, thereby assisting in managing joint discomfort ^[8]. Similar to bovine collagen, the source of the fish for marine collagen is crucial for sustainability and quality. Considerations include deep-water sourcing and products claiming to have no fishy aftertaste.

Consider trying Genuine Health’s Clean Bovine Collagen and Clean Marine Collagen! Genuine Health’s Clean Bovine Collagen is sourced from North America and is available in unflavored and pineapple berry options. The Clean Marine Collagen is sustainably sourced from the frigid depths of the North Atlantic Ocean, available in unflavored and lemon lime varieties. Importantly, it boasts no fishy smell or taste. Both the marine and bovine collagen offered by Genuine Health provide essential and non-essential amino acids, crucial for overall health, aiding in protein synthesis, reducing joint pain linked to arthritis, and facilitating collagen formation.

These products can be easily incorporated into your preferred beverage, whether hot or cold. Discover one of our favourite recipes below.

Indulge in a Warming Golden Milk Latte

Ingredients:

• 1-2 cups of boiling water
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder or 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric root
• 1 tsp ground ginger or 1-2 inch piece of ginger root
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 scoop of Genuine Health Clean Collagen (marine unflavored or bovine unflavored)
• 1 tbsp of coconut oil or coconut butter (for added creaminess)
• 1 tsp raw honey

Method:

1. Place all ingredients, except honey, into a high-speed blender and blend until frothy (approximately 1 minute).
2. Pour the mixture into your favourite mug and add honey to taste once the water has slightly cooled.

Embrace collagen supplements as a natural approach to maintaining your health and well-being. Make informed choices that resonate with your preferences and values, supporting a vibrant and energetic life!

References:
[1] Markets and Markets. Collagen Market by Product Type (Gelatin, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Native Collagen) Application, Source (Bovine, Porcine, Poultry, Marine, and Plant Sources), Form, Type, Extraction Process and Region – Global Forecast to 2030. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/collagen-market-220005202.html#:~:text=The%20global%20collagen%20market%20is,USD%207.2%20billion%20by%202030.
[2] Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Collagen. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/collagen/
[3] Varani, J. et al. Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin. Am J Pathol 2006 June;168(6):1861-1868.
[4] Song, H. et al. Effect of Orally Administered Collagen Peptides from Bovine Bone on Skin Aging in Chronogically Aged Mice. Nutrients 2017 November;9(11):1209.
[5] Henriksen, K. et al. Type I Collagen. Biochemistry of Collagens, Laminins and Elastin; 2016;1-11.
[6] Kuivaniemi, H. et al. Type III Collagen (COL3A1): Gene and protein structure, tissue distribution, and associated diseases. Gene 2020 July;707:151-171.
[7] Silva, T. H. et al. Marine Origin Collagens and Its Potential Applications. Mar Drugs 2014 December;12(12):5881-5901.
[8] Bakilan, F. et al. Effects of Native Type II Collagen Treatment on Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Eurasian J Med 2016 June;48(2):95-101.

About the Author: Genuine Health Team

Genuine Health is a Canadian company that makes all natural, non-GMO supplements and is one of the original vendors to partner with HFN back in 1999. Genuine Health has a history of firsts, including: First superfood formula and first to launch a superfood designed for the gut, First with fermented supplements and the first complete fermented protein, and the First natural health supplement company to become a B Corporation worldwide.