The best collagen supplements contain hydrolyzed collagen in the form of highly absorbable peptides. These peptides are broken down into smaller molecules (2–5 kDa), which allows them to be absorbed more easily by the body.
Key characteristics:
- Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides)
- Sourced from pasture-raised animals or wild-caught fish
- No sugar, flavorings or fillers
- Neutral taste and good solubility
- Daily dose of around 10g
Comparison:
| Type | Absorbability | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed collagen | High | Skin, joints, hair |
| Gelatin | Medium | Cooking |
| Natural collagen | Low | Limited |
An example of a pure product with this composition is the RealFood collagens, which contain only collagen peptides with no additives.
