If you're like me, you’re probably already supplementing with some form of collagen, whether it's marine-based or bovine-based. Collagen has become a household name in the world of wellness, especially for those focused on skin health, joint mobility, and gut integrity. But did you know that not all collagen powders are created equal? In fact, most of the collagen powders on the market today may not even be benefiting your gut lining as much as you think.
I personally add Perfect Supplements bovine collagen to my smoothies and yogurt daily. But more recently, I’ve switched to incorporating PaleoValley’s unflavoured bone broth powder into my routine. Wondering why? Stick around, and I’ll share the inside scoop on this change and what it means for your health—specifically when it comes to gut health and skin elasticity.
Katie's Recommendation: PaleoValley Unflavoured Bone Broth Protein Powder
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Collagen: The Body’s Framework
Let’s start with the basics. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It’s found everywhere: in your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. In a way, collagen is the framework that holds everything together, much like the beams and support structures in a building. This protein is responsible for maintaining your body’s elasticity and strength, which is why it's so heavily marketed for improving skin texture, bone density, joint health, and even gut health.
As we age, however, collagen production naturally decreases, leading to issues like sagging skin, joint discomfort, and weakened digestive function. That’s why collagen supplementation has become such a popular solution.
But here’s the catch: Not all collagen supplements deliver the same benefits. Most collagen powders on the market today are highly processed, and many come with hidden downsides that could affect your overall health—especially if you’re looking to nourish your gut lining.
The Dark Side of Collagen Powders
When shopping for collagen, many of us are looking for a quick fix without realizing the potential downsides lurking in some of the more widely available powders. The majority of collagen supplements you find on store shelves today are processed from grain-finished cowhides. These hides are often subjected to high heat and strong chemicals during processing, which can degrade the collagen's natural benefits. And while some brands claim their collagen is “grass-fed,” that may not always be the case.
In fact, the term “grass-fed” can be misleading, as some cows are still finished on grain before they’re slaughtered, even though they’re raised on grass for most of their lives.
This processing issue is a huge concern because high heat and harsh chemicals can strip collagen of its bioavailability, meaning your body may not be able to fully absorb or benefit from it. And let’s not forget that the quality of the collagen matters too. So, it's essential to research the sourcing and manufacturing process to ensure you’re getting the most nutrient-dense and effective collagen for your body.
A Closer Look at Bone Collagen vs. Skin Collagen
This is where bone collagen really stands out. Over the past few months, I’ve made a conscious shift toward using bone broth powder, specifically from PaleoValley, and I’m excited to share why I think it’s a superior choice.
Bone Collagen: The Full Spectrum
Bone collagen—found in bone broth—is far superior to the skin collagen that’s typically sourced from cowhides. Bone collagen contains a mix of Type I, II, and III collagen, which are incredibly beneficial for your skin, joints, bones, and gut health. These collagen types support the structure and function of your skin and bones, but they also play a significant role in joint health and gut integrity.
What makes bone collagen even more impressive is the presence of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are key for bone density and muscle function. Not to mention, bone collagen contains fewer contaminants compared to skin collagen, which can be impacted by the processing methods used on cow hides.
In addition to the variety of collagen types, bone broth collagen contains a broader range of amino acids, which are vital for tissue repair and overall body function. The amino acids found in bone broth are often easier for the body to absorb and use effectively, making it a better option for those looking to optimize their wellness from the inside out.
Skin Collagen: Limited but Effective
On the other hand, skin collagen (like the bovine collagen I currently use in my smoothies) is rich in Type I collagen, which is great for improving skin elasticity, promoting skin healing, and reducing wrinkles. But that’s pretty much where its benefits end. Skin collagen lacks the broader nutrient profile and mineral content that bone collagen provides, which makes it a less complete option for supporting overall health.
While skin collagen is still great for improving skin appearance, why settle for just the skin benefits when you can get Type I collagen (for skin) along with Type II (for joints) and Type III (for gut health) from bone collagen? Plus, bone broth collagen also brings along that bonus of essential minerals and a greater variety of amino acids—making it a more well-rounded supplement.
The Case for Bone Broth Powder
Now, you might be thinking, "But Katie, aren’t people who make bone broth already getting the benefits of bone collagen?" You’re absolutely right! People who make bone broth at home or regularly drink it are undoubtedly reaping the rewards of this nutrient-packed elixir. However, I’ll admit—drinking bone broth isn't always practical or appealing, especially during the hot summer months. I’m personally not in the mood to sip on a warm cup of broth when it’s 30 degrees celsius outside, and frankly, I’m just not that into the flavour of traditional bone broth every day.
That’s where a product like PaleoValley’s unflavored bone broth powder comes in. It offers a convenient and easy way to get all the benefits of bone broth without the hassle of boiling bones and making broth yourself. It’s the perfect solution for those looking to up their collagen intake while maintaining a busy lifestyle, and it’s super easy to add to smoothies, soups, or even just water.
I also continue to eat animal proteins regularly to support my collagen intake, but bone broth powder has become a game-changer when I want to add more collagen to my diet in a simple, convenient form.
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your collagen supplement, consider switching to bone broth collagen. It’s a high-quality, nutrient-dense option that supports multiple areas of your health—skin, bones, joints, and gut. And if drinking traditional bone broth isn’t your thing, bone broth powder is a fantastic and convenient alternative that makes it easier to stay consistent with your supplementation.
Remember, always do your own research and consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your supplement routine. I’m just sharing my personal experience and why I’ve made the shift toward bone broth collagen for my own wellness.
I hope you find this information useful and that it helps you make an informed decision about your collagen supplementation. As always, feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
Cheers,
Katie McKersie
Holistico Inc.
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