Ingredient Spotlight: Collagen

Collagen is easily one of our favorite ingredients, so much so that it stars in two of our popular products. We love shining the spotlight on this valuable nutrient as often as we can, so this week, we’re refreshing one of our previous collagen spotlights with everything you need to know.

What is collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. The word collagen comes from the word for “glue” in Greek. It is found in all animals and acts as the “glue” that helps hold together our tissues, organs, muscles, and bones.

There are over 25 forms of collagen in the human body. Type I, II, and III are the most prominent in humans. In fact, Type I accounts for 80-90% of the collagen in our bodies, which is why it is commonly found in most collagen supplements.

Your body naturally produces collagen, but collagen synthesis and the quality of the collagen in our cells declines as we age, decreasing around 1-2% each year. On the outside, we typically see it in the form of fine lines, wrinkles, skin dryness, and sagging skin. Inside our bodies, collagen reduction becomes noticeable in the decreased mobility and strength of bones and joints.

What does “hydrolyzed” mean, and why does it matter?

Hydrolyzed collagen, also referred to as collagen peptides or collagen hydrolysate, refers to a form of collagen in which proteins are broken down into smaller particles. These particles are more easily and quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. When the body better absorbs nutrients, it helps maximize their benefits.

Collagen Benefits

From bones to skin, collagen impacts many areas of the body. These peptides support longevity and provide elasticity in our skin that gives it that youthful, vibrant glow. Collagen also supports healthy aging by promoting bone and joint health.

Collagen has been shown to support digestive functions by helping maintain the delicate lining of the digestive tract. Research also suggests collagen can help support cognitive health and support healthy weight and metabolism.

How to support collagen production with your diet

According to recent studies, less than half of adults receive enough protein from their food, and the proteins they do get can often be difficult to digest and may not be in a healthy form. That’s why it is important to consider supplementing with quality collagen protein.

There are numerous ways you can keep your collagen production up to par. As with anything health-related, your diet plays a key role. Give your body what it needs to produce collagen effectively by getting your daily dose of vitamin C, primarily found in citrus fruits and berries. In addition, glycine and proline help give your body what it needs to build collagen. Glycine and proline are mostly derived from animals, but there are also plant sources. You can find glycine in plants like spinach, cauliflower, kale, pumpkin, banana, and beans. Proline can come from asparagus, cucumber, watercress, and chives.

How to support collagen production with supplements

In the past, it was common for Western societies to consume a lot of collagen naturally in their diets from foods like bone broths and organ meats, but most people don’t eat these foods daily. That’s where collagen protein supplements come into play.

One of the most important factors in choosing a collagen protein is to ensure it is hydrolyzed. Hydrolyzed collagen, also referred to as collagen peptides, breaks down into shorter fibers that the body can better digest and utilize.

Kyäni and hydrolyzed collagen protein

It can be challenging to get the daily nutrition we need to function at our best and promote healthy aging, especially with our busy lifestyles and various dietary preferences. That’s why we have not just one, but two featured products that contain hydrolyzed collagen.

Kyäni HL5®

A simple, delicious way to tackle your daily demands while keeping your health in mind. Available in a convenient pouch, Kyäni HL5 is also perfect on the go. Each pouch delivers five grams of type 1 and type 3 hydrolyzed collagen protein to optimize fat metabolism; support healthy joints, skin, and hair; promote long-lasting energy; build lean muscle, and support strength and flexibility.

Kyäni FIT20®

This all-natural protein blend features grass-fed whey protein and grass-fed hydrolyzed collagen, plus MCTs and amino acids. It is specially designed for easy absorption to deliver nutrients that support your active lifestyle. Among its many benefits, FIT20 promotes lean muscle building, faster workout recovery, and long-term Nitric Oxide production.

DISCLAIMER: This information relies upon scientific research on certain ingredients in Kyäni products. None of the studies examined Kyäni products specifically, and there is not necessarily a relationship between the results of these studies and any Kyäni product. Neither the studies nor the statements and products referenced here have been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Kyäni products are not intended to, and do not, diagnose, treat, cure, prevent, or mitigate any disease or condition.