Collagen 101: What Is Collagen – Types & Benefits Explained
What is collagen, and why does it matter in your daily wellness routine?
Collagen is one of those wellness buzzwords that’s earned its place in the spotlight – but it’s more than just a trend. If you’re curious about what collagen actually does, why it matters, and how to choose between hydrolysed and marine collagen, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down in a simple, no-fluff way.
What is collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It’s like the scaffolding that helps hold everything together – from your skin and bones to your muscles and connective tissue.
But here’s the thing: as we age, our natural collagen production starts to slow down (sigh). And lifestyle habits like poor nutrition, smoking, and too much sun exposure can accelerate the process. That’s where collagen-boosting foods or supplements may come in handy – especially when used consistently as part of a balanced routine.
Why do people take collagen?
While your body does make its own collagen, many people choose to supplement with it to support:
- Skin elasticity and hydration
- Joint and bone health
- Hair and nail strength
- General recovery and vitality
It’s easy to add collagen powder to smoothies, coffee, oats or even a glass of water — making it a simple habit with potential benefits for overall wellbeing.
The most common types of collagen in the body:
There are many types of collagen, but here are the top three you’ll hear about:
- Type I: Found in skin, bones, tendons – this is the most abundant and commonly targeted in beauty supplements.
- Type II: Found in cartilage – often linked to joint health.
- Type III: Found in skin, muscles and blood vessels – often found alongside Type I.
Hydrolysed collagen (aka collagen peptides)
Hydrolysed collagen is collagen that’s been broken down into smaller units (peptides) for easier absorption. It’s usually sourced from cows (bovine) or pigs (porcine).
Why it’s popular:
- Easily dissolves in hot or cold liquids
- Often contains a mix of Type I and III collagen
- Neutral in taste — perfect for adding to smoothies or oats
Marine collagen
Marine collagen is sourced from fish (usually fish skin or scales) and contains mainly Type I collagen — the kind that supports skin structure and elasticity.
Why it’s loved:
- Suitable for pescatarians
- Smaller particle size for easy absorption
- Often preferred for skin and beauty routines
Which collagen is right for you?
The right collagen for you really depends on your preferences, dietary needs, and how you plan to use it. Hydrolysed collagen, which usually comes from bovine or porcine sources, is rich in type I and III collagen. It’s a great option for supporting skin, joints, and muscles, making it one of the most versatile choices.
Marine collagen, on the other hand, is derived from fish and is a concentrated source of type I collagen. This type is often favoured in skincare and anti-aging routines thanks to its role in maintaining skin elasticity and hydration.
When choosing between them, you might also want to consider other factors like taste, how easily the collagen dissolves, or whether you’re avoiding certain animal products.
Lifestyle Food Collagen: Simple, Clean, Convenient
At Lifestyle Food, we keep things straightforward. Our Collagen Powder is:
- Easy to use in your daily routine
- Free from added sugars or artificial ingredients
- Designed to support your wellness journey – no gimmicks
- Just one scoop a day can go a long way in supporting your skin, joints and overall vitality.
Friendly reminder: Always speak to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have underlying health conditions.
Find Your Fit
Explore the Lifestyle Food Collagen Range – available at Dis-Chem and Dis-Chem Food stores nationwide.
