Last year I stumbled upon an article from the Wellness Mama when I was pregnant that touched on the benefits and uses of gelatin and collagen. I immediately purchased a container of Great Lakes gelatin but it sat in the back of my pantry for months and I completely forgot about it until I started seeing it pop up everywhere again in recent months.
After reading more and more about the positive benefits of gelatin and collagen, I figured it was time to start incorporating it into my diet. I promised you guys a blog post all about collagen and today I’m going to address the most common questions I’ve received and touch on the benefits of collagen, changes I’ve seen, how it tastes and how I incorporate it into my diet.
Heeeere we go!
What is the difference between gelatin and collagen?
Collagen hydrolysate is not the exact same thing as gelatin but they both have the same amino acids. Collagen in the hydrolyzed form is processed more, breaking down the proteins into smaller pieces. True gelatin only dissolves in HOT water and causes liquids to gel but collagen hydrolysate is water soluble in both cold and hot water. Collage hydrolysate will not congeal because it has been hydrolyzed for quick assimilation and improved hydration to the connective tissue. I prefer collagen hydrolysate for its easy dissolvability in coffee and smoothies.
What are the benefits of collagen?
Though a myriad of benefits surrounding collagen can be found, below you will find the three rockstar benefits of collagen that jumped out at me and encouraged me to begin incorporating it into my daily diet.
Skin/Hair/Nail Health: Collagen consumption can help reverse signs of aging and increases skin elasticity and moisture. Aging, sun exposure and poor health choices can cause a decrease in collagen levels in the skin and collagen can help increase the firmness of the dermis (the bottom layer of your skin), reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Structural changes in the skin, including weakened collagen, can make the appearance of cellulite more prevalent. When skin loses shape, elasticity and firmness, the appearance of cellulite is more visible because the skin is thinner and less able to conceal irregularities. Collagen can improve skin texture by increasing firmness and aid nail and hair growth.
Improved Digestion: The amino acids in collagen provide reparative and soothing properties that aid in digestion and improve the assimilation of nutrients. Collagen supports the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and helps repair stomach lining. Collagen may also help coat the digestive tract to improve digestion and help heal intestinal permeability.
Joint and Bone Health: Collagen is essential for mobility and provides the infrastructure of the musculoskeletal system. Bone is a living tissue that supports our muscles, protects vital internal organs, and stores most of the body’s calcium. It consists mainly of a framework of tough, elastic fibers of collagen and crystals of calcium phosphate mineral that harden and strengthen the framework. The combination of collagen and calcium phosphate makes bones strong yet flexible to hold up under stress. The consumption of collagen helps with elasticity and regeneration of tendons, cartilage, bones, joints and skin and may improve bone and joint health over time. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends collagen to help promote faster healing. Collagen may also help with joint and bone comfort and alleviate some of the pain for those who experience joint and bone discomfort and pain.
What kind of collagen do you use?
I initially purchased Great Lakes gelatin in the orange container and used it for a little more than a month. I was able to get it to dissolve in hot coffee by stirring vigorously but it would often congeal a bit. After switching to Great Lakes collagen hydrolysate, a water soluble form of collagen that dissolves instantly in hot or cold liquids, I was much happier since I could easily add a tablespoon of the collagen into my morning cup of coffee without worrying about it turning into a gel.
Though I prefer the dissolvable form of collagen, there are collagen gummies and gel capsules also available for those who prefer a quick and easy way to add collagen into their daily routine.
How do you use it? What does it taste like?
I add a tablespoon of collagen hydrolysate to my morning cup of coffee every day (and a second tablespoon to my second cup of coffee). It dissolves instantly and has absolutely no taste.
I have added it to cold water once and felt like I could slightly taste something but it was very faint and probably more in my head than anything.
Still, I prefer adding collagen to more flavorful beverages because then I don’t feel like I’m trying to figure out if I can taste it or not. (Totally a mental thing, I know.)
I will also add collagen to smoothies for an unflavored punch of protein. Two tablespoons of collagen have 43 calories and 11 grams of protein, so it’s a great way to amp up the protein in a fruity smoothie without altering the flavor at all.
Have you noticed any changes since you began incorporating collagen into your diet?
I held off on writing this post for a little while because I wanted to be able to share something with you guys beyond a post about the supposed benefits of collagen and report back with my personal findings.
I haven’t been taking collagen long enough to share any long-term amazing results, but here are some things I have noticed after several months of daily use:
Less achiness in the morning. For some reason, whenever I get out of bed first thing in the morning, my feet are often achy. (Oh the joys of getting older!) The achy feeling dissipates after a few minutes but I have noticed that it is less intense and seems to go away faster now that I am regularly taking collagen.
Reduced cellulite. Please do not mistake this statement for me saying I have found the cure for cellulite. Nope! But have I noticed less cellulite on the back of my legs and my butt since I started taking collagen? Yes. Is it dramatic? No. But it is something and I’ll take it!
Faster growing and stronger nails. This is a great thing for me since I still occasionally bite my nails (but not so great when I notice my toenails growing faster, too, and have to paint them more regularly)! I also feel like my fingernails are less brittle which is always a good thing!
Healthier looking skin. This is, without a doubt, the best thing I’ve noticed! I truly feel like my skin looks brighter and more youthful since incorporating collagen into my diet. It’s not the fountain of youth, but if it can help me feel better in my skin, I’m all for it.
My current natural beauty anti-aging routine includes the daily use of collagen, rose hip seed oil and Beautycounter Rejuvenating Radiance Serum and I’ve been very happy with this trio!
Additional Information
Curious to learn more about collagen? Check out the resources below!
- Effects of Oral Ingestion of Hydrolyzed Gelatin
- Collagen as a Supplement for Athletes with Activity-Related Joint Pain
- Annual Review of Food Science and Technology: Gelatin and Collagen
- All About Gelatin and Collagen
- Do Collagen Supplements Work Better Than Anti-Wrinkle Creams
***
Disclaimer: This blog post contains information gathered from my personal research and experience with collagen. Please do your own research and consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or supplement routine. As with most supplements, even the most natural, some people may experience side effects. While this post is not sponsored in any way, affiliate links are included and I greatly appreciate your support!
![\"Quantcast\"/](\"//pixel.quantserve.com/pixel/p-1e3-7hOJ_U8Bg.gif\")
Thank you for introducing this to me! I always saw collagen on my lotion bottles, but never thought to INGEST it. I have minor digestive issues, and I have felt a difference since taking collagen daily for a little more than a month.
This is why I love your blog! Fun AND informative ?
I’m so glad you’ve seen positive changes, too!!
Collagen for the win! I have been using collagen daily for about 2 years. It has helped to calm digestive flare ups for me on many occasions. There have been times when my stomach was so irritated that the only thing I was able to eat without repercussions was collagen mixed with coconut oil (sounds weird but it worked). I would definitely recommend anyone who is interested in gut healing give collagen a try.
https://thedogtribe.com/2016/07/27/bloating-rescue/
Yay! I’m so happy you posted this! I’m pregnant right now and I’ve been looking for ways to get extra protein as well as help prevent stretch marks. How often did you take collagen during your pregnancy? Thanks for sharing! 🙂
How do apply the RoseHip Seed Oil? I purchased it a while ago but it’s been sitting in the back of my counter for quite some time now.. Haha! Do you use a cotton ball or just apply it with your fingers? I purposely got it too because I’m 8 months pregnant and am (slowly) switching to all natural products!
Morgan – I use RoseHip seed oil everyday! Use it just like you would lotion.
Put 3-4 drops onto your hands, rub together and rub on your face. If there is any excess oil on your hands, just rub it in like lotion! It absorbs so quickly which I love because I know my skin is “eating it up”! I rub on my neck and chest sometimes as well.
I do the same!
Awesome thank you both!
I have been using Rosehip Seed Oil for a long while (thanks Julie) and I use way more than a few drops. I use almost a dropper full at night and just a few drops in the morning. At night I put it on my face, chest, shoulders, and arms. I love the way that it moisturizes and because it absorbs so quickly there’s no greasy feeling. My skin looks so great since I started using this oi. We recently started with the collagen too and I’m noticing further improvements and a lot of nail growth.
Thanks for the info! I should really consider this for the joint health. Bad knees run in my family. 🙁
I have seen collagen EVERYWHERE lately and it is certainly something I am interested in to help support my joints and to support my skin. I have had so many issues with my skin (acne wise) so I think this would help to reverse some of the damage that acne has caused to my skin. Even better that you don’t even taste it in coffee– I can totally get on board with that!
I’ve been hearing about people taking collagen, but I didn’t know why. Thanks for all the info!
Two rounded tablespoons (12g) has 43 calories and 11g protein… not one tablespoon
Oops! You’re right! Just edited the post to say two tbsp instead of one. Thanks!!
I’ve recently started on the collagen train as well! I love that I can get some super easy protein first thing in the morning with my coffee. I definitely feel like I see a difference in my nails. I’m dreaming that it will help me get through a future pregnancy without any stretch marks… dream big right? 😉
Hi Julie! I know a Doctor’s opinion is best but I’m wondering if you’ve heard anything about collagen affecting blood clot risk etc. while you did your own research. I started looking for a type of collagen to buy and came across some of this info but not sure about it.
Hi Julie! I’ve recently started taking collagen per your suggestion for early onset joint problems. Loving it so far! Tried to turn my mom onto it and she is concerned about possible lead in the ingredients. I can’t find the ingredient list on the canister, any thoughts?
Thank you for all of this info! I’ve interested in buying collagen pills for the skin benefits but I think I like the idea of mixing it into drinks better. I’m also super excited to hear it is a good source of protein, I had no idea! My hair and nails already grow at exponential rates so that part should be interesting!
I started adding collagen into my morning coffee, too. It has only been a few weeks, so I cannot report on major changes, but I know it is great for my gut, which is so important to overall health.
I’ve always been super picky about my protein powders and had a hard time finding one I love. I’ve been incorporating collagen into my smoothies for a protein source and it’s the best! You only taste the smoothie, but you get all the protein. Love collagen 😀
Exactly!! It’s so great for people who typically hate the taste of most protein powders.
When I was first doing research into collagen what I found was very interesting. The point was the amino acid profile helped to round out the typical Amino acids we get from eating only the meat of the animal. It helps boost your overall protein intake and I most often recommend it for thyroid health. However, the research is still preliminary on that!
Interesting!
Hi Julie! Thanks for sharing, I’ve had collagen in my Amazon cart for a while now. Have you seen any negative side effects?
I have not noticed any negative changes/side effects 🙂
I absolutely LOVE collagen, it is insane how quickly my nails grow and they are definitely stronger! I just hope the anti-aging benefits are working and I am wrinkle free when I get older!
Haha! You and me both!
Hi all! Does anyone know of any vegetarian alternatives to collagen and gelatin? Just curious! Thanks.
Hi Alison,
I’m a vegan and I get mine from wheat germ flakes. I sprinkle them on salads! I believe wheat germ oil is a good source too. iherb.com is a good source for vegan/vegetarian supplements. Just add vegan to whatever your searching for.
Hope this helps!
Thank you for sharing. I had the same question about a vegan alternative and even Google didn’t help me much!
Did you incorporate collagen into your diet while you were pregnant? I am so very interested in trying it, but I am currently 6 months pregnant.
I actually bought it when I was pregnant but didn’t take it until after Chase was born. Most research I read made it sound safe for use during pregnancy, but of course I’d absolutely check with your doctor!
I was going to ask if it was safe while breastfeeding, but it sounds like you started while breastfeeding so it should be safe. I’m very intrigued and wanted to try but am still breastfeeding my 8-month old.
Collagen and gelatin are derived from animal parts (bones, connective tissues, skin). Cattle, pigs, and chickens are obvious sources, but horses and sheep are also used if that makes a difference to you (I’m not sure if horse collagen can be sold for human consumption in the U.S, but it is sold here for animal consumption). If you’re not a vegetarian this is probably no big deal. There is grass-fed collagen available on the market too. Totally not on a soapbox here either way, I just wasn’t aware of all this when I first heard about collagen and gelatin so I wanted to just send out an FYI.
So interesting! I’ve heard so much about collagen lately, but don’t know anyone that’s personally taken it as a supplement. Love hearing your results.
And girlfriend, I hear you. Anything that can help me take care of the skin of this outdoors lover is a win in my book.
For face product, I love natural moisturizer and makeup, but would be really interested in your morning and night face routine since you seem to use a lot of products different than myself. Always love hearing about other’s routines to get some ideas. Just a post idea since I know we’re always on the look out. 😉
Thanks for sharing!
XO, Jessica
http://www.semisweettooth.com
I love, love, love collagen! The biggest change I have seen has been in my hair. I had a baby last May (2015), and post-pregnancy hair loss left my hair in a mess. I can’t believe the re-growth I have seen since taking collagen in January. My hair is shiny and thick(er) than it has ever been. Of course, I have all the “baby hairs” but I will take it;-).
oh my goshhh YES to the post-pregnancy hair loss! crazy!!!
The struggle with post-pregnancy hair loss is REAL! AH! 🙂
You got me hooked on Rosehip Seed Oil (which is amazing and incredible results) so I just ordered this!
It sounds super easy to add into your daily routine! Thanks for the review!
I am in lovvvve with rosehip seed oil. So glad you like it, too!
My mom just bought a big container of collagen and ever since then, I’ve been wanting to incorporating collagen into my diet. I’m now more convinced than ever! Thank you for the info Julie!
I have all of these items in my cart to purchase… can’t wait to try! Thanks for all the helpful info!
Thank you for this post! Looking forward to trying it 🙂 Speaking of aging though, I’d love to see an updated post about your anti-aging/beauty routine! Thanks again for your blog! I really enjoy hearing about your adventures! 🙂
Thanks for the in-depth and thought out post! I appreciate that you waited to post until you felt like you could give an honest opinion. 🙂 I really had no idea about collagen until you started talking about it awhile ago, but it sounds like something I should take a closer look at. Brighter skin and less cellulite? Yes, please!
I just got a sample of the vital proteins collagen, I might try putting it in my coffee or smoothie after I workout. Glad you said you couldn’t really taste it, because I was a little nervous about that.
I haven’t tried that brand yet but have only heard good things! Please report back!
I’ve been using Rose Hip Seed Oil for about a month now and I love it! Just purchased this collagen yesterday! Can’t wait to start using it!
Isn’t it amazing!? LOVE it! I honestly feel like my skin craves it now!
Thanks for sharing this! I use Vital Proteins collagen and my digestion is so much better now. I’ve often struggled with constipation but get less and less of it now.
So glad to hear this!
When the collagen craze first started last year, I reviewed a protein powder made from collagen, and it was AWFUL! It totally turned me off of the subject. However, I think the products have advanced since then, and I actually have two tubs of Vital Proteins Collagen in my pantry from BlogFest that I need to break into. I’m going to try putting it into tea, because I don’t drink coffee. ehehehe. I’ll report back. Great post, Julie. Thank you for sharing! 🙂
I’ve been using the Vital Proteins brand of beef gelatin for a little over a month and love it! I also add a scoop into my morning smoothies and it’s completely undetectable. The health benefits are so amazing and I feel like I’m already noticing improvements in my skin 🙂
I had never even heard of using collagen until I read about it on your blog! Thanks for sharing all of this info! I’m going to dive back into it later and maybe try some out soon!
Julie, you had me at the reduced cellulite comment!!!
Do you have a source for this statement? “The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends collagen to help promote faster healing.” I’ve been looking around the internet but can’t seem to find a statement to confirm it. I’m having surgery on my hip in about a month and am not opposed to adding something to help with healing. (Will chat with my surgeon as well.) Thanks!
Hi Julie! Thanks for sharing, I’m all for trying collagen. This is kind of random but while we’re on the subject of wellness…I recently had a visit with my doctor and he recommended taking prenatal vitamins since I am a woman “of reproductive age” and am getting married this fall. Did you take prenatal vitamins, and if so did you start before you tried conceiving? We probably won’t start trying for a year or so, but just curious if anyone else did this!
WE did!!! It def doesn’t hurt too, has great benefits, just like a regular vitamin.
Thanks Bethany! Good to know, I’ll have to look into it!
Hi!! I actually started taking prenatal vitamins six months before I became pregnant. They are very similar to a regular multi, with the addition of some good for baby components ? Because we had decided to start trying for a baby, and because you don’t know you’re pregnant immediately, I figured it couldn’t hurt to start supplying my body/baby with those things! I’m breastfeeding and I actually still take my prenatal.
I think it would be wise to incorporate this into my diet for the skin benefits + the digestive benefits! Thanks for such an insightful post!
Recently posted -> “Where Does Happiness Come From?”
https://poweredbysass.com/2016/07/27/where-does-happiness-come-from/
Whaaat? I had no idea it had protein in it! (I mean, it makes sense now, but it didn’t immediately occur to me). I am SO EXCITED about that! I do indeed dislike a lot of protein powders, and whenever I use one, I feel like it has to be a whole “big show” where I have to incorporate it into a smoothie (when I don’t feel like a smoothie. Example: sometimes I don’t WANT to drink something cold!)
This is exciting. I would have never considered this product without your commentary and review. “A whole new world” – singing. Thanks for your interesting update.
Btw, re: foot pain in the morning. Have you considered plantar fasciitis (and your footwear, and whether or not you have proper arch support). I say this because I’ve been extremely active as an adult and then suddenly…..my feet started to hurt when I got up in the morning. Found out it’s because overuse/training/aging/improper arch support (and a few other things) lead to plantar fasciitis. But especially, improper support in shoes (read: all women’s dress/fancy shoes/sandals – basically anything pretty we wear for “fun”). I started to wear vionic slippers around my house and it changed everything. Also, plantar f is also a problem when you don’t stretch your calf muscles enough. Just thought I’d share because treating it really helped me! In my situation, I had already been wearing custom made orthotics for years, but as I aged, I needed proper arch support everywhere, not just in my gym shoes!! Vionics makes some cute shoes too (but they’re not all created equal. Each style fits COMPLETELY differently, and I’ve kept as many as I’ve sent back for improper fit, but people rave bout their thong sandals.) Expensive, but worth it!
I hope that helps! 🙂 Great post!
I agree about the tight calves and stretching them! However, a great addition to optimal lower leg proper functioning is myofascial release (through rolling) and then some gentle strength work on the calves (barefoot if you can). Then a good stretching routine to compliment the above.
Hey Julie! Thank you for this post, and your personal account of the experience. Have you noticed any other side effects such as weight gain or bloating? A lot of the reader comments in the wellness mama post report these.
Thanks!
I’m SO glad you wrote this post. I’ve noticed that Tina (CNC) and yourself have been adding collagen to your coffee and always wondered the benefits / what started you guys on the collagen train! I definitely have this on my ‘to buy / start using’ list.
Do you believe your use of collagen was the sole reason for reduced cellulite or your burn bootcamp workouts and nutrition? I’ve noticed a change in your eating patterns or what you’ve posted. I love working out and am mindful of nutrition but still have some sad cellulite on the backs of my legs.
I am thinking about adding collagen to my diet. What benefits have you seen? Also, on the brands…..Great Lakes vs. Vital Proteins? Thoughts?
Is the Great Lakes Collagen Hydrolysate organic? Would love to try it, but have been trying to stick to an organic diet these days. 🙂
Hi Julie, I love your blog and am a long time reader and fan. I have to admit, I was quite excited and interested to read this post about collagen, but I was also skeptical, as I think we all should be when new things like this hit the mainstream. I looked into it a little on my own, and the research is definitely conflicting–most scientific articles agree that there is no evidence (other than anecdotal) that orally ingesting collagen does anything but boost your protein intake since the collagen breaks down into amino acids just like a steak would, upon ingestion. I did find one scientific article that mentioned it may help with collagen breakdown but the jury is still out. I think it’s important as a beautiful blogger such as yourself to also present the other facts, since virtually all of your readers will now go out and purchase collagen (who wouldn’t after the ‘facts’ that you presented?!). I think it’s your job to also inform readers that the facts you presented above were likely taken from a site that promotes the purchase of collagen, yes? Thanks, Julie. Looking forward to the post on Chase’s first birthday–I know it will be epic!
Thanks for the detailed review! I am super interested in testing this out. As a recovering long distance runner, I do everything I can to help my joints out 🙂
Great information! I’m definitely going to try it in my coffee and I may attempt some home made gummies for my daughters too!
I have lupus so I was very interested in collagen for my joint pain as well as for my brittle, thinning hair. However, I’m not a meat eater (other than fish) so I assumed I was out of luck until my dermatologist suggested marine collagen. Six months later and I can honestly see a huge improvement in my hair and nail health. I don’t think it has helped my joint pain as much but will continue using it daily. I also think it has helped me recover with less soreness from my workouts. I only take 6 grams a day due to the very high cost but may double that if it may help cellulite. ? I also but my marine collagen from Vital Proteins, and mix it with coffee or chai tea. I think it tastes bad but is covered up with stevia and a little coconut milk.
really cool, informative post. i’m excited to try this and know the benefits are malarky.
also…happy birthday to your little boy! its been so neat to read this past year and wish all the happiness to you guys 🙂
I have been hearing about this lately! I see the benefits that you posted but do you know if there are any side effects or down sides to taking collagen?