WHAT IS COLLAGEN?

- YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO COLLAGEN -

In this guide, we are going to go through some of your most burning questions and give you clear, easy-to-understand answers as well as some best practices and tips for getting the most out of your collagen supplements!

SO, WHAT IS COLLAGEN?

Collagen is a protein, the most abundant form in fact. It makes up a third of all protein found in the human body.

Collagen is made up of amino acids bound together to form something called a triple helix. Known as the collagen helix. It's primarily found in connective tissue such as cartilage, skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.

Collagen is what helps our connective tissue to withstand damage and stretching. Not only is it found in connective tissue, but it's also abundant in our eyes, blood vessels, gut, and even teeth!

The body synthesizes collagen the same way it does with other proteins. It combines amino acids broken down from the protein in our diets to create collagen.

Collagen supplements provide us with these amino acids to assist with building new collagen.

SKIN, HAIR, & NAILS

TENDONS, JOINTS, & LIGAMENTS

CARTILAGE & BONES

BLOOD VESSELS & HEART

STOMACH LINING & INTESTINES

MUSCLES

OUR BODIES NATURAL PRODUCTION OF COLLAGEN

Our bodies are great at producing collagen naturally. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and this production of collagen can decrease.

One of the main factors when it comes to the decrease in collagen production is age. Studies have shown that our collagen production decreases by 1% a year from the time we turn 20!

Whilst age is the biggest contributor to collagen reduction, other factors also play a role and can speed up the process. These include poor diets (high in refined sugar and low in nutrients and protein), environmental toxins, air pollution, sun exposure, smoking, and alcohol.

Whilst we can't turn back the clock or control the air we breathe; diet, supplements, and lifestyle can lessen the impact and assist in increasing the efficiency and speed that our bodies produce collagen.

TYPE I, II & III COLLAGEN

There are 28 different types of collagen. These types are found in different parts of the body and the amino acid makeup of each type depends on the structure it's part of. We don't need to go through all 28 types as collagen supplements on the market are primarily made up of 3 important types; Type I, II, and III.

TYPE I

This is the most abundant! Type I makes up about 90% of collagen and is found in almost every tissue and structure in your body. It's most prominent in your bones, skin, cartilage tendons, and connective tissue.

TYPE II

Less commonly found in supplements, type II is mostly found in cartilage. The reason it's not prominent in many supplements is that type I and III have very similar benefits for cartilage and joint health.

TYPE III

Type III collagen is often found alongside Type I in your bones, skin, cartilage, etc. It's also found in larger organs such as your intestines, liver, and spleen. Type III is also abundant in your muscles and arteries.

BOVINE VS MARINE COLLAGEN

Both sources of collagen work the same way by providing amino acids essential to building stronger connective tissue and provide us with very similar benefits. However, some minor differences in each type can make deciding which is right for you a little easier.

MARINE COLLAGEN

Sourced from wild-caught fish

Almost exclusively Type I Collagen

Smaller peptide molecules: more bioavailable & faster absorption

Rich in hydroxyproline which is especially important for skin, blood vessels, & other connective tissues

Great alternative if you follow a pescatarian diet or don't consume beef

BOVINE COLLAGEN

Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows

Comprised of Type I & III Collagen

Plays a major role in the repair of tendons, ligaments, & bones

The most common collagen supplement available on the market; making it more affordable

Great alternative if you are allergic to or don't consume fish

THE BENEFITS OF COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS

From skin health to stronger joints and bones, the health claims can go on forever! But what does science say? Let's take a closer look at some of the proven benefits of collagen.

SKIN HEALTH & AGING: Researchers have used various forms and collagen dosages over certain time periods to monitor the effect it has on our skin. These studies found a noticeable improvement in skin elasticity, hydration, wrinkles, texture, and fine lines. Not only does collagen assist with the skin on our faces; research has shown that it also improves the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks!

GUT & DIGESTION: Collagen is made of 30% glycine, glycine is an important amino acid when it comes to our digestive health. Glycine has been shown to repair leaky gut; a condition where the small intestine becomes damaged causing bacteria, food particles, and waste to leak through into the bloodstream. Collagen helps repair the lining of the stomach and intestines. In turn, it also helps improve nutrient absorption!

HAIR & NAILS: Collagen has been shown to help hydrate your hair and nails, helping them grow faster, thicker, and healthier!

MUSCLE MASS & PERFORMANCE: Collagen is rich in two extremely important amino acids for creatine synthesis (the organic compound responsible for energy release during exercise); glycine and arginine. Additionally, hydrolyzed collagen peptides are easier to digest and are not associated with stomach discomfort which is often a common side effect of dairy-based protein powders.

JOINTS & BONES: Collagen has been shown to reduce inflammation in people with inflammatory disorders like Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoporosis. A study also found that athletes who were given a collagen supplement experienced less joint pain than those who were given a placebo!

WEIGHT LOSS: Unlike many supplements on the market today, collagen has actually been proven to assist with weight loss! Collagen can boost your metabolism by increasing lean muscle mass. Research has shown collagen supplementation can be effective in helping aging individuals maintain lean body mass and preserve nitrogen balance. Not only does collagen increase our metabolism; it’s been shown to keep you fuller for longer and decrease appetite.

HEART HEALTH: Collagen has been shown to lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease by preventing plaque buildup in your arteries.

SLEEP: Collagen is loaded with an amazing amino acid called glycine. Glycine aids in sleep quality by lowering the body's core temperature and plays an important role in our body's production of serotonin. Serotonin in turn helps produce the sleep hormone; melatonin.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENT

Collagen supplements are made from connective tissue found in animals, like bones, skin, hooves, and fish scales. Because collagen is an animal-derived product, choosing pasture-raised, grass-fed animals or wild-caught fish is going to ensure you get the best quality possible.

Products that are third-party tested for purity are also an essential indicator of whether or not the collagen you’re consuming is safe and effective.

Is your collagen sustainably sourced, GMO-free, and 100% natural? These points should not be overlooked! Collagen brands that take the time to ensure their products are natural, tested, and certified should be your first choice when deciding on your collagen supplements.

So, whether you choose bovine or marine collagen, you can’t go wrong! Both provide incredible benefits and can be used in similar ways. The deciding factor comes down to your personal preferences, health concerns, dietary restrictions, and allergies.

However, that doesn't mean that you can't benefit from both! Taking Marine and Bovine Collagen together is a great way to double up on the benefits.

Either divide your daily dose and take them at the same time or split your dose throughout the day.

BOMBSHELL HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED & MORE

SUSTAINABLE

Our Collagen is sustainably sourced from grass-fed/pasture-raised cattle or wild-caught fish.

100% NATURAL

Bombshell Collagen is Organic, Non-GMO, free from heavy metals and chemicals, and 100% natural.

TESTED & SAFE

Bombshell Collagen has been third-party tested for purity, safety, and efficacy to ensure you are only getting the best!

GUILT FREE

Paleo and Keto friendly, free from gluten, dairy, sugar, heavy metals, and artificial ingredients.

READY TO START YOUR COLLAGEN JOURNEY WITH US?

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

How do I introduce collagen into my diet?

Adding collagen to your diet is pretty easy! High-quality collagen powders like Bombshell dissolve effortlessly into almost anything. Adding your daily dose to your favorite meals and drinks is the best way to get your collagen fix!

How much collagen should I take?

Depending on your needs, your collagen dosage can vary. However, a daily dose of 10 - 20 grams daily is recommended to get the best results!

How long does collagen take to work?

This varies and depends on your desired outcome, dosage, and focus area. We’ve added some expected time frames below.

Skin Benefits: 4 - 12 weeks.

Muscle Mass (combined with exercise): 12 weeks.

Recovery After Exercise: A few days. Joint Health: 4 - 6 months.

Tendon Support: 3 - 6 months.

Bone Health: 12 months.

Hair and Nails: Up to 6 months

Can you take collagen while breastfeeding or pregnant?

Collagen has not been shown to be unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women but with any supplements, it’s always best to confirm with your health care provider.

Still have questions?

WE ARE HAPPY TO HELP!