Collagen: How much is needed daily and why

Chiefly known as the component that constitutes bones and skin, collagen has now gained the status of a must-have supplement. This protein is mainly responsible for keeping our joints healthy and our skin firm and elastic. In fact, three-quarters of the human skin and one-third of the protein in your body is made up of this essential component.

As we age, our body produces less and less.... and less of it.

Collagen is a Unique Protein

Did you know that collagen protein has a totally unique amino acid profile? There is really no other type of protein like it found in nature. For this reason, collagen deficiency is quite common. Replacing collagen nutritionally is the best way to supply the body with the building block it needs to keep generating this vital protein.

Why Collagen is Important in Nutrition

Given below are some of the most common benefits of collagen and its supplements:

An excessive amount of collagen in the body can allow you to enjoy the benefits of firm skin, strong nails and healthy hair for a long time.
It enhances skin elasticity, diminishes wrinkles and hydrates your skin.
Collagen is often prescribed by gastroenterologists to improve gut health.
Collagen, along with another compound called MCTs, can help in healthy weight loss.
It can help your body burn calories quickly and prevents the signals in your brain that make you want to binge.
Hydrolyzed collagen is a clean and ketogenic source of energy that boosts performance during a workout.
Collagen aids in speedy workout recovery as it repairs the wear and tears in the connective and muscular tissues that lead to DOMS (Delayed Onset of Muscular Soreness)

Which Collagen Supplements are Best?

Clean, hydrolyzed sources of collagen are the best form for nutrition. If your skin has started losing its firmness, and you notice other significant signs of aging, a hydrolyzed powder collagen can be used and assimilated by your body almost immediately. It's very efficient. In contrast, whole forms of collagen, or vaguely sourced supplements should be avoided. The great news is that it's easy to incorporate these powders with your regular diet and reap its benefits.

Here are some examples of valuable collage-based products that you can add to your list:

Collagen Creamer + MCT Oil (Vanilla): Made from pasture-raised, grass fed, hydrolyzed beef collagen, it is an excellent substitute for coffee creamer. Adding this delicious vanilla-flavored creamer to your morning coffee will help you kick start your day. Made from 100% clean ingredients, this product will enhance your mental clarity and sharpness. You can also consume it before an intense workout session for better performance and endurance.
Amino Collagen C + Hyaluronic Acid (2): Per scoop of this supplement contains about 5 grams of hydrolyzed marine collagen, plus the added benefit of hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C to boost total body hydration. It is sugar and gluten-free and acts as an excellent energy booster—additionally, it's easy to mix and super versatile because it's unflavored. Mix with almost everything- tea, coffee, yogurt, etc.

Elavonne® offers clean sources of collagen which are versatile for any diet.

What is the Minimum Collagen Intake Per Day?

We like to say that every person needs at least 5 grams of supplemental collagen in their diet per day to help maintain good skin regeneration. But before determining your minimum collagen intake, it's best to factor in your age, exercise, and diet regimen. Generally, our belief is that your total protein intake should be about half as many grams as your weight is in pounds and your collagen intake should comprise about 20% of it.

For example, a 120lb woman should intake roughly 60 grams of total protein per day with 12 grams being collagen protein. But as with any diet change, start low and gradually increase. Amino Collagen C makes serving up collagen easy with each scoop delivering 5 grams of pure marine collagen.

Related: What is Collagen Nutrition