Collagen peptides vs hydrolyzed collagen: What is the difference?

Confused about hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides? In the booming industry of collagen supplements, these two terms can be puzzling. But worry no more! This article will clarify the differences and similarities between hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides to help you decide when to use or purchase these products.

A Quick Overview of Collagen

Before we delve into the specifics, let’s review what collagen is all about.

The Importance of Collagen in Our Bodies

Collagen is a vital protein crucial in maintaining our skin, bones, joints, tendons, and blood vessels’ integrity. As we age or experience life stressors, our natural production of collagen decreases. Consequently, we may start noticing wrinkles on our skin or feel discomfort in our joints.

What is the difference Between Hydrolyzed Collagen and Collagen Peptides?

There is no difference between hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides. Both terms refer to the same thing, which is the result of breaking down full-length collagen into smaller peptide chains through hydrolysis. This process makes the collagen more bioavailable and easier for the body to absorb, and it is often used in supplements, cosmetic products, and functional foods.

So whether you see a product labeled as hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides, they are essentially the same thing with no significant differences in their properties or benefits.

What is Hydrolyzed Collagen?

Hydrolyzed collagen is derived from animal connective tissues such as bovine (cattle) or marine (fish). It undergoes hydrolysis to break down the long amino acid chains into smaller ones. These smaller chains are easier for our bodies to absorb and utilize.

Collagen Peptides

You may be surprised to discover that collagen peptides are essentially another name for hydrolyzed collagen. Both terms refer to a highly bioavailable supplement from animal-derived sources processed through hydrolysis.

So they aren’t different – just two names for the same product!

Is hydrolyzed or peptide collagen better?

Hydrolyzed and peptide collagen are great forms of collagen supplementation, but they serve different purposes. Hydrolyzed collagen has been broken down into small peptides, making it easier to digest and absorb, while peptide collagen is already in a smaller form and quickly absorbed by the body. Hydrolyzed collagen supports joint health, bone density, and skin elasticity. In contrast, peptide collagen is considered the best form for ingestion and is often used in functional foods or cosmetic products. The choice between these two types depends on your specific needs and goals.

Why is hydrolyzed collagen better?

Hydrolyzed collagen is a better option for supplementation because the hydrolyzation process breaks down the collagen protein into smaller peptide chains, making it easier and faster to digest. This means that your body can absorb all the essential nutrients such as arginine, proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline more efficiently.

Moreover, hydrolyzed collagen has greater bioavailability than other forms of collagen, which means that a larger quantity of collagen gets absorbed by your body when you consume it.

Is hydrolyzed collagen more effective?

According to a meta-analysis of studies, hydrolyzed collagen supplementation has shown favorable results compared to placebo regarding skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkles. The study also found that collagen improved skin hydration and elasticity. These results suggest that hydrolyzed collagen is an effective supplement for supporting skin health and reducing signs of aging.

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of collagen supplements may vary depending on individual factors such as age, diet, lifestyle habits, and overall health.

Is hydrolyzed collagen safe for kidneys?

For most people, hydrolyzed collagen is safe for kidneys when consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. However, people at high risk of developing kidney stones should avoid collagen supplements.

While there is not enough evidence to suggest that collagen supplementation causes kidney stones, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement or making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have a pre-existing health condition.

Does hydrolyzed collagen have side effects?

Hydrolyzed collagen is considered well-tolerated and generally safe for consumption with no major side effects reported. However, some people may experience minor side effects such as a feeling of heaviness in the stomach or mild diarrhea.

These side effects are typically mild and short-lived, and they can often be avoided by carefully consuming hydrolyzed collagen in moderation and following dosage instructions.

What type of collagen is hydrolyzed collagen?

Hydrolyzed collagen is a type of collagen that has been broken down into smaller peptides with low molecular weight (3–6 KDa) through enzymatic action in acid or alkaline media at a specific incubation temperature. It can be extracted from different sources, such as bovine or porcine, and it is commonly used in supplements, functional foods, and cosmetic products due to its high bioavailability and ease of absorption by the body.

What are other names for hydrolyzed collagen?

Hydrolyzed collagen, broken down into short chains of amino acids around 3-6 kilodaltons, is also known as collagen peptides. These terms are often used interchangeably to refer to the same type of collagen commonly used in supplements, functional foods, and cosmetic products due to its high bioavailability and ease of absorption by the body.

So if you see a product labeled as hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides, they essentially refer to the same thing.

Conclusion

In summary, hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides are two terms used interchangeably for the same type of supplement – a highly digestible formula made from animal sources that makes it easier for our bodies to absorb this essential protein. Whether you opt for one term over the other, incorporating these supplements into your diet can lead to numerous health benefits related to skin vitality, joint support, and overall wellness. Here’s to boosting your body’s natural supply of collagen!

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