Is it better to take collagen or collagen peptides?

Author: Loyce Schowalter  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 2, 2025

But to ensure your body gets all the collagen it can from supplements, opt for collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen. This alternative includes fragments of animal-derived collagen. Breaking down collagen makes it easier for the body to absorb in its entirety than collagen taken as a complete protein.

Are collagen peptides better than collagen?

Whole collagen is difficult for the body to digest or absorb, while collagen peptides are significantly more accessible for the body. When taking a whole collagen supplement, your body will only be able to use a small portion of it compared to a collagen peptide supplement.

What is the best form of collagen to take?

Collagen peptides are usually considered the best form of collagen for ingestion. Hydrolyzed collagen should be taken if a person wants to take a collagen supplement. Hydrolyzed collagen means the collagen has been broken down into small peptides, which are easy for the body to digest.

Is there a downside to taking collagen peptides?

Good news: Unless you're allergic to their ingredients, there are no known side effects of taking collagen peptides. As with anything else, check the label closely, but if you're allergy-free, you should be A-OK to try collagen peptides.

Does Jennifer Aniston really use collagen peptides?

Jennifer is a genuine fan of Vital Proteins products, which is why she became a paid spokesperson, explaining, "It's something I've used every day for a long, long time. And I believe in it and I love it.

5 Benefits of Collagen that Experts got WRONG (ignore the hype)

What happens after 1 month of collagen?

Improved Skin Hydration and Appearance

One of the most noticeable effects of taking collagen is an improvement in skin's moisture levels and appearance. Collagen helps attract and bind moisture into the skin, leaving it looking plumper and more hydrated.

Does coffee affect collagen absorption?

There's some evidence to suggest that caffeine slows healing and collagen synthesis, but so far, it's all in hypothetical models. For real human athletes, caffeine shouldn't have any significant impact on your collagen or protein absorption.

Is collagen peptides hard on the liver?

A high-dose intake of the collagen peptides increased body weights and caused liver dysfunction. A high-dose intake of the collagen peptides could profile the profiles of SCFA metabolism.

Why do I feel weird after taking collagen?

While intended to promote beauty from within, collagen supplements may have a negative impact on your digestive system. Some individuals report experiencing digestive discomforts such as bloating, gas, and even diarrhoea after taking collagen supplements.

What is the #1 collagen on the market?

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Advanced is our top go-to collagen powder because it's easy to find, easy to use, and mostly flavorless.

What to avoid when taking collagen?

Avoid these factors, which can decrease collagen levels in your body:
  • Smoking. Smoking decreases collagen production. ...
  • Eating too much sugar and refined carbs. Sugar attaches to proteins to form advanced glycation end products. ...
  • Exposure to ultraviolet light.

When should I take collagen, morning or night?

Timing for collagen supplements depends on the reason you are taking them. If you have experienced gases or gut issues with these supplements, it is best to have them in the morning blended in with your smoothies or in a cup of coffee. If you want a good night sleep, you can take it at night with a glass of milk.

What is the healthiest type of collagen to take?

Marine collagen is classified as being a type I collagen, renowned for its high collagen content which is absorbed well by the body – getting to work quicker than bovine. It's also most suitable for promoting healthy skin and bones, and early research in mice suggests it may be on of the best collagen for anti-ageing.

Which food is high in collagen?

The 12 Best High-Collagen Foods
  • Bone Broth.
  • Fish and Shellfish.
  • Chicken.
  • Beef.
  • Egg Whites.
  • Citrus Fruit.
  • Berries.
  • Garlic.

Should I take biotin or collagen?

If a person has a biotin deficiency, taking biotin may improve the health of their skin. Otherwise, collagen can be a better option as there is more evidence to suggest it helps improve the skin's appearance.

Is there a negative to taking collagen peptides?

You can also experience digestive problems as a side effect of taking collagen. Some of the symptoms you may display include diarrhea, constipation, and heartburn, alongside feeling bloated and having a reduced appetite. Chemical additives, particularly in supplements, greatly contribute to these reactions.

What are the first signs that collagen is working?

The first signs that collagen is working can be noticed when you look at your skin; regular collagen can begin to improve the skin's overall elasticity and improve hydration levels after (at least) six weeks.

Is collagen hard on the heart?

Collagen provides structure to your arteries, which keep blood flowing to and from your heart. Studies have shown that taking collagen supplements can reduce artery stiffness and increase levels of “good” HDL cholesterol in the body. This means it can help reduce your risk of developing heart conditions.

What I noticed after taking collagen?

While there is no set time frame for Type 1 collagen peptides to start working, some individuals report noticing changes within a few weeks of consistent use. These initial changes usually include improved skin hydration, reduced joint discomfort, and increased nail strength.

Is liquid collagen better than powder?

While many supplement brands claim that liquid collagen is absorbed better, the scientific studies aren't there to back it up– so don't worry if you're using the powdered form. And remember, you don't have to take collagen supplements in order to be healthy.

What blocks the absorption of collagen?

A diet high in sugar, excessive sun exposure and smoking also diminish collagen levels. Collagen's molecular structure is something called a complex triple helix, like three pieces of rope twisted together. Certain molecular interactions require a triple helix shape in order to function.

Why is my skin better after quitting coffee?

Slower Skin Aging

Caffeine slows down the rate at which your body makes collagen. This is a protein that gives your skin its tightness and elasticity. Once it drops, your skin starts to sag, and wrinkles appear. You make it more slowly as you age.

What is the best drink to add collagen to?

You can easily get collagen powder into your diet with the help from a blender, shaker bottle, hot liquid, food, and more (frothers are great!) To get 2-4 scoops daily, diversifying is key. If you prefer to mix with liquids; water, coffee, tea, smoothies, and milk are popular.

Previous article
Can you get in shape in 3 months?
Next article
Is it okay to take 2 weeks off from lifting weights?