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What is hydrolysis? Peptides? Collagen? Don't worry, we won't be quizzing you on chemistry or biology. We'll help you choose which collagen to buy when you're looking for the best ally for great shape and good health.
Collagen is fuel for youth and health
Collagen makes up 30% of the total protein in our body. It builds up, and then declines after the age of 25. To slow down the aging process and keep our skin radiant, our joints and bones healthy, and our hair shiny, it's important to help our body produce it by also taking collagen through supplements. Bovine collagen is the most widespread, and once processed through hydrolysis, it multiplies the effect of this valuable protein.
Hydrolyzed collagen is better absorbed. Why?
Hydrolyzed collagen from animal cartilage and bones (type 1 – one of the most common in the human body) is extracted from gelatin protein through hydrolysis. During this process – through demineralization, extraction of the collagen from gelatin, enzymatic hydrolysis, ion exchange, filtration, evaporation, sterilization, and finally drying – the amino acid chains are shortened, reducing them to shorter peptide compounds in a form that is much better absorbed by the body. The result – collagen hydrolysate, also known as „collagen peptides“ – contains 18 amino acids, 9 of which are essential, such as lysine, valine, and methionine. During hydrolysis, their concentration increases, the protein dissolves more easily in water or in other hot or cold drinks, has no smell or taste, and is absorbed more quickly by the bloodstream and the skin.
The benefits multiply
Several benefits of this valuable protein are scientifically proven:
Results from a study among 114 women who took collagen hydrolysate for 8 weeks show a significant reduction in wrinkles around the eyes and an increase in skin elasticity. However, experts warn that using cosmetic products containing collagen can create unrealistic expectations, which is why taking collagen directly has more advantages.
For healthy bones and joints: there are more than 60 studies on the effectiveness of hydrolyzed collagen in fighting osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. It is recommended for long-term use, especially for women in peri- and post-menopause. Data from a study among 51 postmenopausal women diagnosed with osteopenia (reduced bone density) show that taking the protein together with supplements rich in calcium and vitamin D strengthens bones. After a 6-month intake of 10 grams of hydrolysate among 250 patients with knee osteoarthritis, the results were more than positive – a significant improvement in their condition and a reduction in pain, according to https://www.verywellhealth.com.
For wound healing and injury recovery: Dr. Lily Mills, a spokesperson for the British Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, says that people take hydrolysate to achieve certain goals, but the body has its own priorities, and if that priority is recovering from a wound or injury, it will direct the valuable protein exactly there. „We may take collagen for glowing skin, but once our body absorbs it, it becomes part of a pool of amino acids that are used wherever they're needed.“
Tasty and beneficial
One of the undeniable advantages of hydrolysate is that it comes in powder form, has no taste or smell, and dissolves easily in water, coffee, or tea. It's also available in different flavors, so you can mix it into your morning smoothie or add it to a dessert recipe, for example. CafeGena – coffee with hydrolyzed collagen – makes for a wonderful wake-up or pick-me-up, doesn't it? This way, the valuable protein becomes part of our healthy diet, and the question „Which collagen should I take?“ turns into „Which is the best collagen on the market?“
