The FAQs of Collagen Peptides

The FAQs of Collagen Peptides

Alex Brecher

Have you been hearing about the benefits of collagen? Are you considering taking it? Then you may have a lot of questions about it! Here are some collagen FAQs that can help. Then head over to the BariatricPal Store and see which collagen supplements may be best for you. Be sure to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement. 

  • What is collagen?
  • Collagen is a protein in your body. It’s the most abundant one. It’s found in connective tissue such as ligaments and tendons, blood vessels, the heart and other organs, and bones. It’s also in hair and skin. It’s even in the lining of the gut!

  • What are the different types of collagen? 
  • There are many different types of collagen, but Types I, II, and III are most common. 

  • Is collagen a complete protein?
  • Actually, it’s not a complete protein because it doesn’t have all of the essential amino acids. It doesn’t have tryptophan. However, it has some that are often in shorter supply, including the other 8 amino acids. It has the branch chain amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine, for example.

  • Can your body make collagen?
  • Yes, your body can make collagen. However, it needs building blocks. It needs certain amino acids, as well as vitamin C. Your body only makes a certain amount of collagen. If you take collagen supplements, you will be providing your body with ready-made collagen in higher amounts than your body may make.

  • What are the best food sources of collagen?
  • Since collagen is a protein found in the body, it’s found in many animal-based foods. For example, it’s in beef, eggshell membranes, bone broth, chicken, and fish.

  • Are collagen peptides different from hydrolyzed collagen?
  • Hydrolyzed collagen is the result of a process called hydrolysis. The products of hydrolyzed collagen are collagen peptides. Collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen is easier for your body to absorb and use.

  • Who might be low in collagen?
  • People whose bodies may be a little deficient in collagen include the following.

    • People with a vitamin C deficiency.
    • People who spend a lot of time in the sun without sunscreen.
    • People who drink alcohol in excess.
    • People who smoke.
    • People who are exposed to a lot of pollution, such as in the air or food.
  • How much collagen do I need per day?
  • There’s no daily value or specific recommended amount of collagen per day. It’s not an essential nutrient. However, you might consider getting about 10 to 40 grams of collagen per day. To put that in perspective, each scoop of Obvi Super Collagen Protein Powder has 10 grams, a 2-scoop serving of BariatricPal Collagen and MCT Creamer has 10 grams, and a scoop of BariatricPal Collagen Peptides Powder has 20 grams.

  • Which forms of collagen supplements are there?
  • The BariatricPal Store has collagen supplements in flavored and unflavored powders, as well as capsules, shots, liquids, and even creamers. We also sell LonoLife Grass-Fed Beef Bone Broth. Flavors of powders include Fruity Cereal, Birthday Cupcakes, Cinnamon Cereal, Cocoa Cereal, and many more. Flavors of BariatricPal Protein Collagen Shots include Pink Lemonade, Tropical Orange, Apple, Orange, and more. Whatever your lifestyle, we are sure to have a collagen supplement that fits into it.

  • Is it true that you need vitamin C to absorb and use collagen? 
  • Vitamin C is necessary for your body to absorb and use collagen, but you don’t necessarily need to take a vitamin C supplement. The amount you get from your diet is most likely enough, and it doesn’t have to be taken at the same time as your collagen supplement. You just need to have enough vitamin C in your body.

  • When will I see the effects of taking collagen?
  • Taking collagen is a long-term investment in your health. The goal is to maintain the structures you have and to allow them to renew and regenerate in their strongest possible form. 

  • Are there risks or side effects from supplements? 
  • Side effects are possible, but are extremely rare. An upset stomach could happen. If it does, there’s a good chance that switching to a different source of collagen, such as bovine collagen, could help. 

  • How do I know if the collagen supplement I use is pure? 
  • Unfortunately, dietary supplements aren’t well regulated and it’s possible to end up with impure supplements. The best way to protect yourself is to use collagen from a well-known brand and to purchase it at a trusted store that offers satisfaction guarantees, such as the BariatricPal Store

  • Can I take collagen if I’m pregnant or nursing? 
  • There aren’t known risks of collagen for women who are pregnant or nursing, but this is a sensitive time of life. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider about any supplements you are considering, as well as any health concerns you may have. 

  • What are the sources of collagen in supplements?
  • Collagen in supplements is often bovine. In that case, you might want to look for grass-fed bovine sources. Other possible types of collagen in supplements are marine collagen and egg collagen. There is also vegan collagen, such as in Obvi Collagen Booster Pills, which are plant-based.

  • Should I take collagen with or without food?
  • Actually, it doesn’t really matter whether you take collagen with food or on an empty stomach. If you do want to maximize absorption, though, you might want to consider taking it right after a workout.

  • Is it okay to mix collagen with coffee or another hot beverage? 
  • It absolutely is okay to mix collagen with hot or cold foods or beverages. In fact, BariatricPal Collagen and MCT Powder Creamer is specifically designed to go into your morning (or anytime) coffee. It has no added sugar and it tastes great. Also, Bone Broth can be eaten hot without worrying about destroying the collagen.

    *The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements. BariatricPal products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Anyone with a medical condition should seek the advice of a licensed medical practitioner. Individual results may vary.

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