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I am very excited to share this post with you today! I get questions all the time about collagen since I am always using it o Instagram.
So, what is the function of collagen? Why should you take it as a supplement?
Since this is part of the chemist solutions series, let’s check out the chemistry of it first. Collagen is a protein found in the human body. The function of collagen is to provide structural support and strength in the skin, bones, and connective tissues. It also replaces and restores dead skin cells. You have probably heard about collagen for years in skin creams or face products.
As we get older, our body produces less collagen, which is why we get wrinkles and the skin loses elasticity. Collagen is very popular to use topically, like with these under eye pads I love to use!
Function of Collagen & Why You Should Take It
But, what about taking collagen as a supplement?
Most of you know, I have had Rheumatoid Arthritis for 20 years now. There have been some rough years, dealing with pain, fatigue, and all the things that go along with an auto-immune disease. RA will damage your joints, causing the cartilage and tissues to deteriorate. This causes additional mechanical joint pain, on top of the usual inflammatory arthritic pain.
Many years ago, I started doing some chemical research about supplements to take that were proven to restore, repair, and soothe bad joints. I spent time learning about each supplement claim, researching the science behind it, and also testing it on myself.
I shared this supplement and vitamin list a few months back about all my proven items that have really helped me over the years.
The biggest one for me has been collagen.
Collagen is scientifically proven to help lubricate and rebuild the tissues around your joints, which is why I wanted to test it out.
Does collagen actually work as a supplement?
There are many scientific articles testing out collagen. This one published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology proved oral collagen was highly effective for the skin. Also, the highly respected Dr. Axe swears by using collagen supplements.
What have collagen supplements done for me?
If I skip a dose of collagen, I experience joint pains and aches within a few days. It has helped me that much! A bonus of taking this supplement is my skin looks amazing too! My nails are healthy and so is my hair.
Another benefit of collagen, is the huge difference in my skin health. My skin looks healthier and more hydrated using collagen.
The most important thing to learn from this post is HOW to actually take collagen as a supplement and what type of collagen to use. There are hundreds of collagen supplements on the market in all different forms. I have tested dozens and tried many methods.
How to Use Collagen to Make it MOST Effective?
Chemically, collagen needs vitamin c to work properly. Vitamin C is a carrier in the body and many nutrients need Vitamin C to be absorbed correctly. I studied this in biochemistry in college and found it incredibly interesting! Oregon State has a great article on the science behind this you can check out.
Since collagen needs vitamin C to be absorbed efficiently, first you need to make sure you take the supplement with some type of vitamin C. Many articles talk about using orange juice or something like that. I do not drink juice since it usually is processed and full of sugar, so I like to use the addition of fresh lemon juice (read this article on why I LOVE lemon and it is so good for you).
What Type of Collagen to Take?
This leads me to my next topic, what type of collagen to take. There are pill forms, powder forms, and even liquid forms of collagen. Pills, as with any supplement, aren’t necessarily as effective. The body doesn’t absorb them as well. Liquid is effective, but can get pricey. Powder form has been the most efficient for me and is easily added to drinks.
Dissolving collagen in a liquid can be tricky. I get questions from readers all the time on how do I get it to dissolve? Does it have a taste?
I created the Chemistry Cachet Collagen Concoction which is basically the ultimate energy boosting, health filled, joint support supplement. I just fill so much better when I have it every morning. It took a while for me to get it down just right so that it’s enjoyable, refreshing, and gives you all the anti-inflammatory, tissue building benefits in one drink.
Find the recipe to my Collagen Concoction here.
The last part of my post today is what brand is best for you.
I have tried many different ones, the expensive ones everyone raves about, and the cheap ones found at the store. I have been using this brand for awhile now. I actually prefer it to some expensive ones. It has been the most effective for me, and I even notice more of a difference with my skin taking this particular brand.
If you want to try out other ones, just make sure it is organic and non-gmo. There are many cheap brands out there that aren’t good for you because they contain fillers or unnecessary ingredients that take away from the collagen.
Chemist Tip: What is gelatin?
I have had this question from readers too, what is gelatin? Gelatin is actually from cooking collagen, so it is similar. I also take it as a supplement, but usually only when I am making a smoothie for added protein. It has quit a bit of protein in it and also is great for joint support. Collagen has been more helpful for my joints, so I take it every day. The gelatin supplement I prefer I take about once a week in a smoothie.
Since taking collagen, I have experienced so much less joint pain. I can walk and exercise more without having that bone on bone pain. Plus, my skin is so much healthier looking too!
Feel free to contact me with any questions!
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I have never heard of this product, but don’t mind the sound of it
It has so many wonderful benefits!
Wow so good to know Collagen has helped you in such a great way to deal with RA! Being a Chemist surely is useful for finding the right mix of “ingredients” that help to alleviate your pain and make life easier
Collagen is such an awesome chemical! It is fun mixing up different things and seeing what works 🙂 Thanks girl!
You share the coolest stuff. I always learn something! Love this
Thank you! I am so happy to hear you learn something, that is awesome!
Amazing! And love how much collagen has helped you, definitely a win-win <3
Green Fashionista
I can’t live without it now! It has done too many wonderful things 🙂
My nutritionist put me on collagen and it is amazing. My nails grow now, and they never did before. You are right, my joints no longer ache. Th part about vitamin c is new to me, but I often put it in my yogurt with an orange.
Collagen really is such an amazing supplement, it has helped the arthritic pain so much for me. Using it with vitamin C really enhances the absorption, so that is great you have it with orange too! 🙂
Lots of great information about collagen, so good that it has helped your joints. That must be a huge relief for you.
Kathleen
Bloggers Pit Stop
It has been such a wonderful relief! I am so grateful it works so well!
Just started using collagen , was pleased to find your post. Have was diagnosed with RA 5 years ago. Having to take medications daily to halt the disease process. I’m always looking for something to try to alleviate pain. Looking forward to trying the drink recipe.
I am sorry to hear you were diagnosed with RA, but I am so happy you found my post! I have had it 20 years now, and all my tips and tricks have made such a difference. This collagen drink has been such a lifesaver for me. I hope you enjoy it too!
So what type of collagen do you recommend to take?? My sister suffers from R A Arthritis and I would like for her to have some relief. Thank you for your information.
I have the link in this post. It is my favorite brand and has been the most effective! You can also see how I use it on this post with my collagen drink. Let me know if you have any more questions! 🙂
I too use this particular brand of collagen. I simply use water, teaspoon of vit. C and an immerisible blender stick to mix. Knee pain is a problem. But, cutting back on ” night shade veggies” tomatoes, potatoes, lessens my pain. Thank You for your wonderful hints, advice and eagerness to share. Looking forward to more.
Best of the Best,
Stella
I stay away from night shades too, it has helped arthritic pain along with no dairy. Thanks!! 🙂
Just wondering what brand u use
The last paragraph has on the details on the brand I use plus a link to where I buy it on Amazon 🙂 It is the one in the photos
Do you use bovine or marine collagen and is there a difference or preference?
This brand listed is bovine collagen. I prefer it and it works better for my joint issues. I have also tested different marine collagens, but I always go back to this brand for the effectiveness.
So hard to buy tgis brand in Australia.
Is it available online? I have readers from some other countries who have found it online pretty well
Hello! First off I want to say great article. Second I do have a question. With collagen + vit c dietary supplements do u think it is OK to throw those in a blender (dry) to create a powder out of them to use as an additive in meals and drinks, or even dig skincare? I ask because I also make my own skincare products… But I’m barely starting off. Would just like your opinion.
Thanks! I would be cautious using vitamin c tablets in skincare. It is very potent, and you only want a very small amount. You can use a little vitamin c powder to mix with an oil, but it works bet if you can let it sit awhile to extract the vitamin c out of the powder. You can definitely try adding it to your food, but you only need so much of both so just use the recommended amount of each 🙂
I just started the collegen pill with vit c when i turned 45 but i feel like I’m gaining weight.?and it says 2 tablet per intake hmmmm if this will finidh i’ll try the powder but it makes my nail grow n hair nice?????
It shouldn’t make you gain weight…but I definitely recommend the powder. Much easier for the body to absorb properly. It contains 25 calories per scoop and no carbohydrates, so it is just from the collagen. Hope this helps 🙂
I just bought this and can already see a difference in my skin! Wow!
It is so amazing for skin! I love it!
My ushual routine is I drink this every night and it’s the last thing I drink or eat before going to bed. The combination drink is cranberry juice, apple cider vinegar, and collagen. My question is this, should I change up the combination ( because chemically it wouldn’t work) or can I keep it the same ? I deal with gut issues so I’ve experienced so much food from this drink.
I think that combo should be fine!
Alexis,
Hope your having a great day! I started taking HA and Chondroitin Sulfate and Aloe Vera because of the GAG affects for my bladder, they thought I might have IC while receiving IV Ketamine for Fibromyalgia. So far so good, no signs.
Anyway, I have leftover Chondroitin Sulfate 660 mg capsules, would it hurt to pour that in your drink?
Thank you for your time.
I think that would be fine, but it might not dissolve too well. If it doesn’t, you could try it in a smoothie
I’ve just found this article. (I’m not very good with computers lol)
Should I be taking gelatin also? you mentioned you took it once a week in a smoothie.. What brand?
Maybe you could email me…I’m not sure I’ll be able to find this post again. Lol
Hi Denise, I will send you a personal email with some links 🙂
Would this be helpful for bone on bone osteoarthritis pain as well?
Yes, this is probably what is would be most helpful for. Here is a recent article with some feedback from readers about using it for osteo and other pain.
I wonder if collagen powder would have any benefit in a beauty formulation such as a creme or hair gel. I make my own cosmetics and happen to have a jar of collagen powder that i have no idea what to do with.
I have tried out a few little DIY with regular collagen powder, and saw no results. The collagen you might see in store-bought products is in a different state, so it is absorbed topically. Collagen powder does not absorb topically well after all the testing I have tried. I just stick to adding collagen powder to foods and smoothies for the added benefit. Hope this helps!