The Difference Between Collagen And Protein Powder: How To Pick What’s Best For You
Over the past several years, both collagen and protein powder have steadily gained popularity as nutritional supplements. Protein has long been understood to be an important macronutrient, particularly for those looking to gain muscle mass. But the importance of collagen for healthy bones, tendons, muscles, skin, and hair has become more and more clear in recent years. So it’s understandable if you might be wondering what exactly is the difference between collagen and protein powder. And which one is best for you.
While there are some similarities between collagen and protein powder, there are some important differences, too. Depending on your health and fitness goals, one or the other might be a better choice for you. So, let’s take a closer look at each of these health supplements.
The Difference Between Collagen And Protein Powder
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body. It makes up the main component of the connective tissue found throughout the body. Without it, skin would lose its elasticity and hang from your body, muscles would become weak and flabby, cartilage and tendons would become loose… you get the picture.
It’s also found in many of our other body parts, including blood vessels, teeth, and corneas. The problem is, by the time we hit 20 years old, we start losing collagen by about one percent a year. And while you can find collagen in food sources, it can be difficult for the body to actually digest and use it properly in that form. Which is why supplementing with Collagen Peptides is beneficial.
Collagen Peptides are broken down into much shorter chains of amino acids than collagen, making them easier for your body to absorb. Supplementing with Collagen Peptides has been shown to help maintain bone strength, increase muscle mass, maintain skin elasticity and hydration, and grow thicker, healthy hair and nails.
What Is Protein Powder?
OK, this may seem like a silly question. But it’s still helpful to fully understand what protein powder actually is before tossing it into your smoothie.
In their simplest form, protein powders are powdered forms of animal- or plant-based protein sources. Animal sources include casein/whey, milk, and eggs. Plant sources include hemp, soybeans, peas, rice, and potatoes.
In addition to helping build muscle mass mentioned above, protein is essential for repairing tissue and making enzymes and hormones in the body.
Collagen Peptides vs. Protein Powder
Now that you’re clear on what collagen peptides and protein powder are, let’s list some of the additional pros and cons of each.
Ease Of Use
Both supplements are generally very easy to add into your daily routine. They can be added to smoothies, oats, or even baked goods. However, some protein powders have an off-putting, chalky taste. Collagen Peptides, on the other hand, are completely flavorless and dissolve easily in any liquid.
Digestion
Some protein powders can cause digestive issues, especially for those with sensitivities to milk or egg products. Even some plant-based protein powders can be tricky for people dealing with sensitive digestion.
Collagen Peptides are incredibly easy for the body to digest and are perfect for people with dairy, gluten, and/or egg sensitivities. In addition, Collagen Peptides actually promote gut health by helping to repair the intestinal and stomach lining. This also helps with immunity.
Hidden Additives
There are some protein powders that have zero additives. However, many protein powders on the market have added sweeteners and flavors to make them more palatable. Some even have as much as 23 grams of sugar per scoop!
Because Collagen Peptides are flavorless and dissolve completely, there’s no need to add anything to them to make them more palatable. And one scoop only has about 70 calories!
Why Supplement With Protein Powder?
Protein powder can be a good option if your main goal is to bulk up your muscle mass while working out. It can also be helpful for older adults who might not be getting enough protein in their diet due to poor appetite or difficulty metabolizing protein properly.
However, for many people, it’s relatively easy to get the protein you need through your diet. Simply increasing your intake of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, or tofu.
Why Supplement With Collagen
As mentioned, your body slowly produces less and less collagen as it ages. This results in sagging skin, weakening muscles, loss of flexibility, and discomfort in your joints. Supplementing with Collagen Peptides can help slow and support these signs of aging.
Supplementing with collagen has shown to improve markers of healthy joint function and comfort. It’s been shown to reduce the appearance of cellulite AND has a positive impact on skin health. It supports your body’s production of keratin, promoting stronger, thicker hair. *
On top of all of that, it can even help you get a better night’s sleep, support healthy digestion, and help maintain normal blood sugar levels. *
How To Choose The Right Collagen
Of course, all collagen sources are not created equal. Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides sourced from 100-percent grass-fed bovine collagen is the most ideal for maximum benefits of collagen because it’s closer to your body chemistry. In fact, bovine collagen is the only type of collagen chock full of glycine and proline — 2 anti-aging amino acids. *
Plus, these Collagen Peptides are gluten-free, dairy-free, and contain zero additives—no antibiotics, no artificial coloring or flavoring, no added sugar, no rBGH or rBST.
If you’re ready for healthier joints, radiant skin, stronger hair, and a happier gut, click the link below to give Collagen Peptides a try!
Shop Collagen Peptides Here!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.