August 20th, 2020

Collagen is having a moment. And once you research some of its benefits, it’s easy to see why. It’s so much more than a beauty buzzword, collagen is the most abundant protein in our body. It provides our skin with strength and structure, and keeps us looking youthful.

The bad news is, collagen production slows down in our mid twenties, which contributes to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging.

Luckily, research shows that consuming collagen-boosting supplements can help reverse some signs of aging, and promote younger-looking skin.

But what is the difference between marine collagen, bovine collagen, and plant-based collagen boosters? Here’s what you should know before shopping for collagen.

Before we dive into man-made collagen, let’s talk about the collagen your body produces naturally. There are at least 16 types of collagen that make up your body, each with its own important roles. Here are the three main types of collagen in your body:

TYPE 1: Makes up 90 percent of your skin, hair, and nails. Type 1 collagen has major beauty-boosting benefits.

TYPE 2: Provides flexibility and support to bone joints. It’s also a major part of your gut lining, and helps your digestive system run smoothly.

TYPE 3: Helps support cardiovascular health. Type 3 collagen is often found in your muscles, bones, and tendons.

Marine Collagen

Marine collagen is made from collagen peptides derived from fish skin and bones. It’s classified as a type 1 collagen, which makes it highly desirable among beauty gurus and skincare fanatics, who claim it has skin-enhancing benefits.

Your body absorbs marine collagen by breaking it down into amino acids, which are then divided and utilized by the body. However, not all supplements are the same. ‘Marine collagen’ can refer to any ocean source, and it’s rare that you actually know the kind of fish used in your supplements. Reports have found that shellfish, jellyfish and sharks have been used to make marine collagen supplements. What’s more, farmed tilapia is one of the most common marine collagen sources, but because of its large scales it isn’t easily absorbed into your body.

In addition, some studies have shown reports of a strong aftertaste, bloating, and digestive issues after consuming marine collagen.

Bovine Collagen

Bovine collagen, or grass-fed collagen, is made from the tissue, bones, cartilage, and hides of cows. Because it’s made up of both type 1 and type 3 collagen, bovine collagen can support your health in many different ways, such as improving skin texture, and supporting muscle growth.

Unfortunately, it isn’t as easily digested as marine collagen. Bovine has much larger peptides, meaning your body has a tough time absorbing it. On top of that - some reports have shown it can cause nausea, heartburn, constipation, and indigestion.

It’s also important to consider where your supplement is coming from. Because bovine collagen is derived from cows, it has the potential to not only be unhealthy, but unsafe to consume. Oftentimes cows are given antibiotics, fed GMO grains, and exposed to dangerous diseases. So if your goal is to improve your health with collagen, bovine may do more harm than good.

Written by Reigna