Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in our bodies, found predominantly in the skin, connective tissues, and bones. It plays a crucial role in providing structure, elasticity, and strength to these tissues.
Taking collagen supplements may offer a number of benefits, including improved joint health, increased bone density, and smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Additionally, collagen supplements may help support overall gut health and may even aid in weight loss efforts. Overall, incorporating collagen supplements into a healthy lifestyle can be a great way to support overall health and well-being as we age.
But which form of collagen is best for your specific needs? We’ve already had a look at the differences between collagen powder and pills. Today, let’s see how collagen powder compares to liquid collagen.
What is Collagen Powder?
Collagen powder is a type of collagen supplement that comes in a dry, powdered form. It is made from collagen protein, which is found in the connective tissues, skin, and bones of animals. It is usually sourced from animals such as cows (beef collagen), fish (marine collagen), or chickens (chicken collagen). The powder can be easily mixed with liquids like water, juice, or smoothies, or incorporated into recipes such as protein bars, baked goods, or soups. Some collagen powders are unflavored, while others come in various flavors to suit individual preferences.
What is Liquid Collagen?
Liquid collagen is simply collagen powder that has been pre-mixed with water or other liquids, or as a concentrated liquid that can be mixed with beverages.
Since the primary goal of liquid collagen is to provide convenience and ease of use, it is generally sold to be consumed on the go. That’s why, in addition to collagen, it may contain the following ingredients:
- Artificial sweeteners and/or flavors
- Artificial colors
- Vitamins (which you may or may not need)
- Preservatives and other additives
What are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen peptides, also known as hydrolyzed collagen, are small chains of amino acids derived from collagen protein. To create collagen peptides, the long collagen protein chains undergo a process called hydrolysis, which breaks them down into smaller, more easily absorbed molecules. These smaller chains of amino acids, or peptides, can be better absorbed by the body, increasing their bioavailability.
Both collagen powder and liquid collagen supplements are commonly made of collagen peptides. Be sure to check the package to be sure that this is also the case for your collagen supplement of choice!
Is Liquid Collagen more effective than Collagen Powder?
The effectiveness of liquid collagen versus collagen powder largely depends on factors such as the specific formulation, the hydrolyzation process, the bioavailability of the collagen, and individual absorption rates.
Some studies suggest that liquid collagen may be more easily absorbed by the body due to its hydrolyzed form, which means the collagen is broken down into smaller peptides. This can potentially make it more bioavailable and effective. However, many collagen powders also come in a hydrolyzed form, which should have similar absorption rates.
Liquid Collagen vs Collagen Powder - Conclusion
Now that we’ve taking a deep look into the intricacies of these two different forms of collagen, let’s break it all down to three simple differences when it comes to practical use:
- Convenience - If you’re just looking to get a quick collagen while you’re on the go and haven’t the time to prepare a collagen shake or coffee, then liquid collagen is the way to go.
- Purity - depending on the exact ingredients, liquid collagen might not be the ideal choice for regular use when it comes to your health, particularly if it includes more additives than actual collagen.
- Price - since collagen powder comes in bigger packages and contains nothing but collagen, it most often provides a much better bang for your buck than liquid collagen!
Ultimately, the choice between liquid collagen and collagen powder comes down to personal preference and convenience. Both forms can be effective in providing the benefits of collagen supplementation, so it's essential to find the one that works best for your lifestyle.
Consume Only High Quality Collagen Supplements
If you’ve decided to go with collagen powder due to its superior value and purity, there are two key things you need to keep in made when determining the quality of collagen powder:
- No additives - collagen is a great supplement on its own and should not be packaged with additional sweeteners, flavors, artificial colors or any other additives
- Quality source - make sure the hydrolyzed collagen comes from grass fed and pasture raised cows (if you're taking Beef Collagen) or from wild caught fish (if you're taking Marine Collagen)
Zen Principle® Collagen is sourced only from the best ingredients - North Atlantic Cod in the case of Marine Collagen, and cattle from Argentina and Brazil in the case of Beef Collagen. It includes no additives, fillers or additional flavors - the only ingredients present in our products are high quality hydrolyzed collagen peptides that your body needs.
