What Are Collagen Peptides? Separating Fact From Fiction

There are 28 different collagen types, and they make up around 1/3 of the human body’s protein.

The increasingly popular family of proteins, collagen, is often referred to as the glue that holds our bodies together. It’s an integral component of our connective tissues, like cartilage and skin.

However, after age 20, we produce 1% less collagen in our skin each year. Thus, our skin becomes more fragile, thinner, and we develop wrinkles.

Collagen peptides can help combat that aging process, though. To learn more about what are collagen peptides, keep reading!

What Do Collagen Peptides Do?

Collagen peptides are an excellent source of protein. They’re small proteins derived from animal products.

Taking collagen peptides may help hydrate the skin and increase collagen density. In addition to aging skin, collagen peptides benefits can help with osteoporosis. They can also help with muscle strength, brittle nails, and a variety of other conditions.

Collagen peptides are used in a variety of foods. They’re also used in beverages, cosmetics, and dietary supplements. They are becoming increasingly popular to combat the aging process.

What’s the Difference Between Collagen and Gelatin?

Collagen peptides and gelatin both come from native collagen protein. They possess different physical and functional characteristics, though.

For example, collagen peptides have a lower molecular weight. The low weight enables them to absorb easily in the digestive tract. They deliver amino acids and significant concentrations of dipeptides.

They enhance joint, bone, and skin health.

Collagen peptides have no gel strength, whereas gelatin has significant gel strength. You’ll find gelatin in products, such as thickened beverages, gummies, and gelled desserts. You’ll find collagen peptides in anything from powders to beverages to protein bars.

Collagen Peptides Side Effects

When taken by mouth, collagen peptides are considered possibly safe. Side effects are rare. Doctors recommend avoiding collagen peptides during pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Some people claim to have mild digestive symptoms or a foul taste in the mouth after taking collagen supplements. Plus, those who suffer from shellfish, eggs, or fish allergies should carefully avoid or read collagen peptide products. Many of them contain those specific ingredients.

Most collagen supplements aren’t vegan. However, there are some manufacturers that are beginning to make vegan collagen peptides. If you’re vegan, it’s essential to check the label and look for vegan certifications before trying out a collagen supplement.

Companies like Umbrella Labs provide a Certification of Analysis report. It’s easily accessible to their customers so they know exactly what they’re getting and what their purchase contains.

What Are Collagen Peptides?

Knowing what are collagen peptides can help you better understand if they’re right for you. Collagen peptides are protein supplements that may help slow down the aging process. They give the skin more elasticity and luster.

Many people use collagen peptides to help with things like aging skin. They also use collagen peptides to help brittle nails, osteoporosis, heart health, and low muscle mass. It’s proven that as we age, our bodies stop producing as much collagen.

Many doctors and scientists alike feel that supplementation offers excellent benefits.

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