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Collagen is a buzzword these days in the world of wellness and supplements. It's a protein found in the connective tissue of humans and animals, and it supports skin, joints, and muscles. While the body naturally produces collagen, the amount decreases over time. This is one reason why supplements like collagen powder have become so popular.
But with so many of these powders on the market, it can be tricky to figure out what the best ones are, and if they actually work. We got in touch with two registered dietician nutritionists to get their take on collagen powders. Maya Feller MS, RD, CDN of Maya Feller Nutrition and Kacie Barnes MCN, RDN, LD of Mama Knows Nutrition were happy to tell about their top picks. Jump to the bottom of the article to learn more about collagen and what to consider when buying collagen powders. And if you're looking for beverages to add your collagen powder to, look no further than these 35 smoothie recipes and 25 easy coffee recipes.
Our Top Picks
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder with Hyaluronic Acid
Pros
- Added hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
- Non-GMO, paleo-friendly
- Dissolves in hot or cold liquids
Cons
"Vital Proteins is a reputable brand that uses clean, high-quality ingredients and has a straightforward collagen protein powder without additives," said Barnes. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder with Hyaluronic Acid has 20 grams of grass-fed collagen, 80 mg of hyaluronic acid to support skin, and vitamin C, which the brand claims can help promote collagen production. The powder dissolves in hot or cold liquids and foods, making it an easy addition to anything from coffee and smoothies to oatmeal.
The brand also sells marine collagen powder made from wild-caught fish.
Pros
- Contains three types of collagen
- Non-GMO, keto-friendly, and free of nuts, eggs, and soy
Cons
A go-to collagen powder for Feller is NOW Foods Multi Collagen Protein. It has types I, II, and III of collagen sourced from beef, chicken bone broth, and fish, along with vitamin C and grade seed extract. It's made to be mixed into beverages.
MindBodyGreen Beauty & Gut Collagen+
Pros
- Includes added nutrients
- Can mix in hot and cold liquids and foods
- Free of GMOs, gluten, dairy, soy, and sugar
Cons
- Expensive
Feller recommends MindBodyGreen Beauty & Gut Collagen+, which includes a variety of beauty- and gut-supporting nutrients like hyaluronic acid, biotin, vitamins C and E, L-glutamine, turmeric, and sulforaphane. Types I and III collagen are used and sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised Brazilian cows.
Pros
- Has the Informed-Sport seal
- Non-GMO and paleo and keto-friendly
- Can be added to drinks or food
Cons
For athletes, Barnes recommends NOW Sports Beef Bone Broth Powder. It has the Informed-Sport seal, which means it was tested for banned substances by LGC, which is an assurance program for anti-doping in sports nutrition. Made of beef bone extract, it has a whopping 28 grams of protein per serving.
What Is Collagen Powder?
"Collagen powder is made predominantly from collagen," said Feller. "Collagen peptides are a type of collagen powder that is bio-available as the proteins have been broken down for use within the body."
Types Of Collagen
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are 28 types of collagen that have been identified. Most of the collagen found in collagen powders are types I, II, and III. Type I makes up most of the body's collagen, type II is found in cartilage, and type III is found in muscles, arteries, and organs.
What To Consider When Purchasing Collagen Powders
Quality Ingredients
"As with any supplements, quality, purity, and ingredients are important," said Feller. "Hydrolyzed collagen is the most easily absorbable form as it is broken down into small peptides which is easy for the body to digest."
Third Party Certification
Both RDNs recommend looking for collagen powders that have a third-party certification. Supplements don't have the same regulations as food, so brands utilize third-party testing to help to verify ingredients, according to Barnes. "Reputable brands also use a third-party lab to certify that the product is tested for heavy metals and microbiological components," she said.
Informed-Sport Seal For Athletes
"If you’re an athlete, you’ll want to look for the Informed-Sport Seal, which ensures every production run of the product has been tested for banned substances by LGC, a globally recognized assurance program for anti-doping in sports-nutrition products," said Barnes. She recommends using Informed Sport to find approved products.
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