Want a firm and younger-looking skin or those beautiful, manageable locks that would make heads turn? Well, many are trying out new and innovative ways of looking evergreen and are introducing collagen in their diets as one of the tricks. Collagen dietary supplements are one of the most abundantly used anti-ageing beauty ingredients and have recently flooded the market with an updated version of this called marine collagen.
All About Collagen and Marine Collagen
Collagen is a form of protein. Our body needs protein for its overall development, growth and well-being. Collagen is believed to be one of the primary building blocks of skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles and blood vessels. Research says about 28 types of collagen in the body. Due to ageing and other factors, our body starts losing significant amounts of collagen, contributing to sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles. Thus, replacing that lost collagen from the skin supporting structures from external sources is quite plausible.
So, what is marine collagen? It is a new form of collagen which varies from traditional collagen. They are usually available in the form of powders derived from bovine sources, whereas marine collagen comes exclusively from fish components. Since most people are conscious about not having red meat, people are shifting towards fish products as it is healthier. However, whether marine collagen is any better than the traditional ones is still under scrutiny as the basic structure of collagen remains the same irrespective of the derived source. Evidence suggests that different forms can act on different types of collagen in the body. For instance, bovine collagen increases collagen types 1 and 3 (skin) while marine collagen make up types 1 and 2 (cartilages).
Benefits of Marine Collagen
The benefits of marine collagen are basically aimed at skincare. Topical collagen treatments are usually not done as the molecules are large enough to penetrate the skin. Hence, it is found in formulations appropriate for oral consumption. Many use collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen in their formulations which are partially broken down. This enhances their metabolism and breaks down into amino acids entering blood circulation, which helps signalling the skin to renew the process of collagen formation.
Several studies have found collagen peptides act as antioxidants that help in fighting free radicals and inflammations in skin cells. A pilot study with 50 women aged between 45 and 60 showed that by including 10 grams of marine collagen in their diets, there was a 35 % reduction in wrinkles compared to the control group. An increase in skin elasticity, firmness and hydration was also noticed. In another clinical trial, 120 people took marine collagen supplement and showed an increase in skin elasticity by 40 %. In addition to this, a 43% reduction in joint pain and 39 % better joint mobility was reported from a study. In spite of these outcomes, there is a lack of evidence regarding the role of marine collagen in joint health and arthritis, and it is also difficult to say whether fish collagen was solely responsible for the changes.
Apart from the health point of view, marine collagen also has a few other advantages. It is considered to be one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly sources of collagen. Marine collagen may also appeal to most people who avoid meat for religious, cultural or moral values.
Supplements to look Out for
Collagen supplements are expensive though readily available in the markets. One can opt for marine collagens, considering their sustainable nature. Supplements can offer something beneficial that one might lack in food. They are available mainly in collagen powder forms that can be added in liquids of choice or capsules. It is always suggested to look for hydrolyzed forms that will be easily digestible by the body.
Korean Marine Collagen Peptides for Multi-Dimensional health Benefits:
- This formulation of Pre Korean marine Collagen is a scientifically proven one which provides a potent anti-ageing solution. It uses an advanced nanoscience formula that converts Marine collagen from Korea into the purest form of collagen. It consists of pure multi collagen type 1 and 3 peptides that help rejuvenate skin, give it a healthy glow and even improve hair quality. It is also said to strengthen joints, muscles and bones. This collagen is 100% bio-available. It is available in powder form.
- Another in the list is Everpure Life Korean Hydrolyzed marine collagen powder. It contains type 1 collagen peptides and helps in achieving healthy skin, hair and nails.
- Korea Best fish collagen peptide powder, which contains 100 % fish collagen, also promises to give good results.
Apart from these, a few more endorse Korean marine collagen supplements, mostly in powder forms.
Marine collagen supplements serve differently from eating fish for collagen intake as most fish parts like scales, bones or heads are discarded off while eating, except when consuming small whole fish. It is always good to include whole food in the diet to provide all sorts of nutrients needed by the body, supplements help to a certain extent. However, more research is necessary to judge the superiority of collagen supplements over a well-balanced diet.