When to Choose Whey Protein, Collagen Protein or Bone Broth Protein

Aug 16, 2023

Whether you are looking to boost muscle recovery, improve gut health, build stronger bones, increase collagen production for your skin or injury prevention, or boost immunity, the blend and dosage of amino acids, along with the cofactors, compounds and micronutrients unique to each one makes a noticeable difference towards seeing results or not. 

Whey Protein

Whey, a water-soluble protein complex derived from milk, is a highly functional food with many of health benefits. Whey protein is one of the two proteins found in milk, with the other being casein.

When a coagulant (usually renin) is added to milk, the curds (casein) and whey separate. 

What is the difference between whey concentrate and whey protein isolate?

There are three main types: whey concentrate, whey protein isolate and hydrolysate. Whey concentrate is the most popular and least expensive and is popular amongst athletes and bodybuilders. 

Whey protein concentrate contains low levels of fat and low levels of carbohydrates. Protein percentages range from 30% to 90%.

  • Whey protein isolate is more processed than whey protein concentrate to remove all fat and lactose, and offers 90% protein.
  • Whey protein hydroxylate is considered “predigested” in that it has already undergone partial hydrolosis- a process necessary for the body to absorb protein. It requires the least amount of digestion of the three types.

What are the health benefits of whey?

  • Includes lactoferrin, beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, glycomacropeptide, and immunoglobulins, demonstrate a veritable rainbow of immune-enhancing properties.
  • Contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein that is absorbed quickly into the gut. 
  • Whey is rich in a branch-chained amino acid called leucine, which promotes muscle growth.
  • Acts as an antioxidant, as well as an antihypertensive, antitumor, hypolipidemic, antiviral, antibacterial, and chelating agent. It is believed that whey protein supplementation works its magic by converting the amino acid cysteine to glutathione, a potent intracellular antioxidant.
  • Lowers blood pressure in individuals with high blood pressure, due to bioactive peptides called lactokinins. A number of clinical trials have successfully been performed using whey in the treatment of HIV, cancer, hepatitis B, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and as an antimicrobial agent.
  • Boosts exercise performance and enhancement useful for hitting targeted daily protein goals for athletes.
  • Whey is absorbed faster than other forms of protein, which means it also increases muscle protein synthesis used to break a fasted state. 
  • Provides a large dose of the amino acid L-cysteine, which can alleviate deficiencies that occur during aging and diabetes, as well as other conditions.

Caution

Whey does not harm the kidneys or liver, but it can magnify pre-existing damage. People with damaged livers or kidneys, or kidney stones should exercise caution when increasing protein intake quickly and without a physician’s guidance. Caution is also advised in people with low blood pressure or in those taking drugs or herbs and supplements that lower blood pressure.

Collagen Protein 

Collagen is naturally found in bone broth and beef hide. Collagen protein powder is derived from beef hide. It contains 19 amino acids. Collagen is the key structural protein that ensures the cohesion, elasticity, and regeneration of all of our connective tissues; it’s the essential glue holding our bodies together.

The peptides in collagen, when digested, are quickly drawn to cells called fibroblasts that synthesize collagen in the human body. New collagen fibers grow in both density and diameter, potentially improving the strength, elasticity, and moisture of the skin.

What are collagen peptides?

Collagen peptides are small bioactive peptides created by breaking down the molecular bonds between individual collagen strands to peptides, or hydrolysis. Collagen peptides are a cold-soluble, easily digestible and highly bioactive form of collagen.

Bovine collagen provides significant doses of types I and III collagen, the major components of nails, skin, tendons, ligaments, bones, gums, eyes, hair, teeth, blood vessels and nails.

The absorption rate of hydrolyzed collagen is said to be over 90% compared to only 27% or less in food. 

The arrival of collagen peptides on the scene also stimulates osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. Bones are living tissues, and collagen helps contribute to their continued strength and flexibility.

What are the differences between the types of collagen?

The collagen family comprises 28 members numbered with Roman numerals (I–XXVIII), with I-IV being the most studied. Approximately 90% of collagen in the body is Type I and found in bovine collagen as well as Type III. Vitamin C, zinc and copper are all co-factors.

Type I collagen is found in the skin, tendons, corneas and in 95% of bone.

Type II collagen is mainly found in cartilage, protecting your joints.

Type III is found in skin, blood vessels, the aorta (main artery that carries blood away from your heart) and 10% of cartilage.

Type IV collagen is a type of collagen found primarily in the skin and helps expedite wound healing.

Bovine collagen provides significant doses of types I and III collagen, the major components of nails, skin, tendons, ligaments, bones, gums, eyes, hair, teeth, blood vessels and nails.

What are the health benefits of collagen protein?

  • Collagen is composed of 3 chains to form a triple helix and iis very high in proline and glycine, and glycine combines with glutamine and cysteine to support the production of glutathione, your body’s most powerful antioxidant. 
  • Glycine stimulates stomach acid production, which leads to better digestion. This is what makes bone broth so healing to the gut along with the naturally occurring gelatin in bone broth protein. 
  • Collagen, however, only has 8 out of the 9 essential amino acids whereas whey has all the essential amino acids. Whey also has a higher level of the BCAA’s leucine, isoleucine, and valine for building muscle.
  • Collagen is high in glycine, which is crucial to building healthy DNA and RNA strands and is the only amino acid found to increase creatine. 
  • Collagen provides proline, an amino acid which promotes joint and cardiovascular health.
  • Collagen makes up to 90% of bone mass, and taking it can improve bone metabolism.
  • Collagen as the key component for regenerating strength and flexibility in torn joints, muscles, and ligaments.
  • Collagen synthesis rates in connective tissue and muscles during healing of an injury have been shown to be significantly higher during the first three weeks immediately following injury.
  • Collagen is an appetite suppressant and may assist fat loss. One clinical trial found collagen to be 40% more filling than the same quantity of whey, casein or soy. Another study among obese and diabetic patients found intake of hydrolyzed collagen stimulated the release of satiating hormones into the blood. Individuals who supplemented with collagen consumed 20% less at their next meal than those who consumed other types of protein.
  • Clinical studies have shown collagen peptides improve mobility and flexibility in both arthritic patients and in athletes. After collagen supplementation, subjects have been able to exercise for longer durations before experiencing joint pain.
  • One trial demonstrated a 70% response rate for significant or noticeable improvement in joint pain among patients who supplemented with collagen, and in another study, collagen proved 25% more effective in reducing osteoarthritis pain and stiffness compared to other anti-inflammatory supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
  • One study that measured effects of daily intake of collagen peptides on the structure of the Achilles tendon found a significant increase in collagen fiber diameter, suggesting improved strength of the tendon as a result of collagen supplementation.
  • Collagen is also an important component in the process of repairing lesions in the intestinal lining. Proper intestinal healing requires an increased collagen supply, and studies have found decreased collagen levels in individuals with digestive imbalances. Additionally, glutamine, one of the amino acids in collagen, has been recognized as the key amino acid in preventing inflammation in the gut lining and healing leaky gut syndrome.
  • Supplementation with collagen has been shown to increase skin flexibility and hydration and reduce the depth of facial wrinkles. In a study among women ages 40 to 60, supplementation with collagen for eight weeks showed a 28% average increase in skin moisture levels, and 91% of subjects reported less dry skin after supplementation.
  • Collagen is essential for healthy nail growth and the major structural component of teeth and the connection between teeth and gums. Collagen loss with age can cause increased tooth sensitivity and decreased tooth strength.

Caution

The most commonly reported side effects of collagen supplements are hypercalcemia – too much calcium in the body (this occurs primarily with marine sources, however), constipation, bone pain, abnormal heart rhythms and allergic reactions.

High-dose isolated collagen from hides may actually increase oxalates in the body, while lower doses as found in broth reduce oxalates. If you are prone to oxalate-related kidney stones or other issues with oxalates, low-dose collagen products are recommended. 

What is the difference between collagen protein and bone broth protein?

As mentioned earlier, collagen protein is made from the hides and bone broth protein is essentially dehydrated stock. Bone broth protein is going to have collagen, gelation, glucosamine, chondroitin, and act as a multi-mineral. 

The Best Whey Protein, Bone Broth Protein and Collagen Products

Choose the type that is going to align best with your goals. Are you trying to build muscle, increase glutathione and immunity? Then whey protein is the best choice. 

Want to improve your digestion, joint health, hair (collagen and gelatin), bone health, get a multi-mineral, and are sensitive to oxalates? Choose bone broth protein. 

Are you trying to improve collagen production, skin, hair, gums, joint pain or expedite muscle injury recovery? Then hydrolyzed collagen protein is the best choice.

1. Promix Whey Protein

Promix is grass-fed, cold-processed, antibiotic free, hormone free, no artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors, preservatives and tested exceedingly low in heavy metals. This is your checklist when choosing a whey protein. You can see a longer list of whey protein options here.

2. Grass-Fed Bone Broth Protein Powder (15% off with this link)

Price: $50.99 (before discount) for 30 servings of the bones instead of the hide.

What research is showing is that many of the benefits of broth come not only from collagen, but mucopolysaccharides (glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid), and numerous trace minerals.  PaleoValley does testing for over 40 pesticides, ensuring a clean, truly grass-fed product. 

3. Vital Proteins Pastured-Raised Collagen Peptides (Type I and Type II)

Price: $43.00 for 28 servings of 20g of collagen and 80mg of hyaluronic acid

Vital proteins use high quality, grass-fed beef collagen from Brazil and New Zealand that also contains hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is synergistic with collagen, and has been found to help retain moisture in the skin, improving the appearance and healthy glow of the skin.

A 2015 study found that collagen, hyaluronic acid, vitamins and minerals lead to a significant improvement in wrinkle depth and noticeable improvements in elasticity and hydration of the skin.

4. Great Lakes Grass-Fed Collagen (Type I Collagen)

Price: $28.99 for 38 servings of 12g of collagen

Great Lakes Gelatin Co. is a company that has been around since 1922 and are the original pioneers of collagen hydrolysate. This is actually the first collagen product I remember carrying in our nutrition practice before other companies also jumped on the bandwagon of collagen products. I have used this product off and on and continue to go back to it because it is a good deal.

5. Xymogen Synovx

This product contains mucopolysaccharides and type I collagen. It took this product to help me recover from an Achilles injury and noticed it took down inflammation and assisted my physical therapy. 

6. Vital Proteins Marine Collagen (Type I and Type III)

This collagen is from wild fish and almost 3x lower in glutamic acid while still giving an excellent dose of glycine and proline. This makes it a great choice for people who have a slow conversion of glutamate (stimulating neurotransmitter) to GABA (calming neurotransmitter) as found in the Nutrition Genome Report. You can read more about glutamate and GABA here.

If you have multiple food sensitivities and/or fish allergies, I do not recommend this product.

Citations:

  1. “Age-related Changes in the Collagen Network and Toughness of Bone.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine.  <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12110404>.
    2. Anderson, By Stephanie Selene. “Cancer: A Collagen Disease, Secondary to a Nutritional Deficiency? – Selene River Press.” Selene River Press. <https://www.seleneriverpress.com/historical/cancer-a-collagen-disease-secondary-to-a-nutritional-deficiency/>
    3. Asseran J, Elian L, Toshiaki S, Prawitt, P (2015). The effect of oral collagen peptide supplementation on skin moisture and the dermal collagen network: evidence from an ex vivo model and randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, (In press)
    4. Campbell, B. et al., 2007, International society of sports nutrition position stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 4:8 doi:10.1186/1550-2783-4-8
    5. Clark, KL. 24-Week Study on the Use of Collagen Hydrolysate as a Dietary Supplement in Athletes with Activity-related Joint Pain. National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18416885>.
    6. “Collagen Analysis in Human Tooth Germ Papillae.” Collagen Analysis in Human Tooth Germ Papillae. Brazilian Dental Journal <http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0103-64402006000300006>.
    7. “Collagen Hydrolysate for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis and Other Joint Disorders: A Review of the Literature.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 10 Oct. 2006. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17076983>.
    8. Elam, R.P., 1989, Effect of arginine and ornithine on strength, lean body mass and urinary hydroxyproline in adult males. Journal of Sports Nutrition. 29:52-56.
    9. Graham, MF. Collagen Synthesis by Human Intestinal Smooth Muscle Cells in Culture. National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3792777>.
    10. Koutroubakis, IE. Serum Laminin and Collagen IV in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14600124>.
    11. Lin, M. L-Glutamate Supplementation Improves Small Intestinal Architecture and Enhances the Expressions of Jejunal Mucosa Amino Acid Receptors and Transporters in Weaning Piglets.National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine<http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25368996>.
    12. Tanaka, M. “Effects of Collagen Peptide Ingestion on UV-B-induced Skin Damage.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19352014>.
    13. “Osteoblast-related Gene Expression of Bone Marrow Cells during the Osteoblastic Differentiation Induced by Type I Collagen.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11134967>.
    14. Proksch, E., and M. Schunck. “Oral Intake of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Increases Dermal Matrix Synthesis.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
    15.  “Safety and Efficacy of Undenatured Type II Collagen in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Clinical Trial.” International Journal of Medical Sciences. Ivyspring International Publisher <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2764342/>.
    16. Tanaka, M. “Effects of Collagen Peptide Ingestion on UV-B-induced Skin Damage.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19352014>.
    17. “Undenatured Type II Collagen (UC-II®) for Joint Support: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study in Healthy Volunteers.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine,<http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24153020>.
    18. T, Hurme, Kalimo H, Sandberg M, Lehto M, and Vuorio E. Department of Pathology, Paavo Nurmi Center, University of Turku, Finland.Localization of Type I and III Collagen and Fibronectin Production in Injured Gastrocnemius Muscle.
    19. Varani, J. “Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin: Roles of Age-Dependent Alteration in Fibroblast Function and Defective Mechanical Stimulation.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine,.
    20. Wienicke E., 2011. In: Performance Explosion in Sports – an anti-doping concept. Meyer&Meyer Fachverlag und Buchhandel GmbH., ISBN-10: 1841263303
    21. Zague, Vivian, Vanessa Freitas De, Marina Rosa Da Costa, Geórgia Castro Álvares De, Ruy Jaeger G., and Gláucia Machado-Santelli M. “Collagen Hydrolysate Intake Increases Skin Collagen Expression and Suppresses Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 Activity.” Journal of Medicinal Food 14.6 (2011): 618-24. Web.
    22. “24-Week Study on the Use of Collagen Hydrolysate as a Dietary Supplement in Athletes with Activity-related Joint Pain.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18416885>.

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48 Comments

  1. Chango

    Love the new look and name of the website.

    I was wondering about this Collagen stuff, I might give it a shot, since I heard its great for everyone.

    I read on other forums that you should drink it on empty stomach with warm water an hour or two before a meal. Could I drink this right after workout and then eat a meal and hour and half later?

    Could I drink this right before bed or right went waking up?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Chango,

      Thanks! Sorry for the late reply. I didn’t get a notification of your comment and just saw it.

      Drinking collagen before or during a meal can help with digestion. You could absolutely use it post-workout and have your meal later. I would drink it when you wake versus at bed so you keep your body in the fasting state at night longer.

      Reply
  2. Jan

    It sounds like both Whey and collagen have very good results and some bad as well. Which would you recommend to a 65 year old female with osteopenia?

    Reply
  3. Jenelle mason

    I’ve had cancer plus I’m 66 is it okay to take it without fears

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jenelle,

      Research has shown that whey protein lowers cancer cell glutathione levels while raising healthy cells glutathione. The type of protein that may have concerns is isolated casein protein powder.

      Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Thao,

      Looks good! Nice find.

      Reply
      • Thao Le

        Thanks Alex. Another concern, is Collagen Peptides safe for pregnancy?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Thao Le,

          I can’t see why it would be a concern. If you are worried, you could use bone broth or chicken broth for collagen and gelatin during pregnancy.

          Reply
  4. David

    I have been taking collagen protein powder in my “buttered coffee” with xct oil every morning and whey protein in the afternoon. Is it ok to take both? Seems like a lot of amino acids. I am a diabetic but all my numbers have improved drastically.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi David,

      As long as you aren’t overdoing it with the rest of your dietary protein intake, it should be fine. Too much protein can push your glucose up. If your biomarkers are improving, then you don’t need to change anything. Keep up the good work.

      Reply
  5. Fon

    How on earth does whey cause heart arrythmia’s?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Fon,

      If whey is heated, contains “natural flavors” that is actually MSG, or the person has an allergy or sensitivity, heart arrhythmias can occur in certain individuals or those using high amounts of whey like bodybuilders.

      Reply
  6. Pat

    I ordered Collagen protein to mix in my smoothies as a protein supplement as was advertised. However after I was taking the regimen one day I sat around reading the fine print and it said “Not to be intended as a protein supplement”. My question is so which is it? A protein supplement or not?

    Reply
    • Pat

      BTW it was by Sports Research.

      Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Pat,

      Technically, collagen is a protein supplement due to its amino acid profile, but it is not considered a complete protein because of it has 8 out of the 9 essential amino acids (missing tryptophan). That may be why that stated that it is not a protein supplement. Whey is higher in the BCAA’s for muscle, while collagen is higher in the amino acids for producing collagen. Using whey (or eating adequate meat and eggs) and collagen gives you the best of both worlds.

      Reply
  7. Michelle

    I am purchasing the Vital Protein’s Collagen Peptides today as I want to see if he helps with many things, specifically arthritis issues in my knees. I also have a container of whey protein I bought recently to use for morning shakes. I saw your comment that using both has benefits. Do you have any suggestioins on how to spread out my use so I don’t take it too much?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Michelle,

      I think one serving of the whey and one serving of the collagen per day is fine. You could split it by having whey in the morning and collagen in the afternoon. Keep us updated on how it works for your arthritis!

      Reply
  8. Eddy

    I get kidneys stones,do you think this will increase the chance of having more?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Eddy,

      The caution comes from taking in too much protein. If you are prone to kidney stones, it is probably best to play it safe and avoid whey protein. I would check with your doctor because he or she will have more access to the type of stones and other relevant biomarkers.

      Reply
  9. Bonnie

    Can I give both whey protein and collagen peptides to my 13 year old son? He’s got terrible nasal allergies, recently did some blood tests that show he’s got high levels of heavy metals and hasn’t grown in the last 3 years. I’m worried about his physical health and development.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Bonnie,

      Yes, both are safe for a 13-year-old. However, dairy may not be the best idea if he has terrible nasal allergies. I would monitor how he does with whey. The collagen would likely be a better fit. I’m sorry to hear about your son and I hope you are working with a good practitioner.

      Reply
  10. Tiffany O

    I haven’t eaten beef or pork since I was 8-9 years old and I’ll be 35 at the end of this month. I’ve heard great things about the vital proteins but as mentioned in the article the collagen is bovine. I stopped eating beef simply because I did not like it, and not for any other reason. I’ve noticed if I accidentally ingest beef fat (was in a package of turkey crumbles I consumed) I get excruciating stomach pain a few hours later. Do you think this would be fine to try? Or is there another collagen that would be better for me? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Tiffany,

      There is actually a marine-based collagen that you may be better off trying first. It is now listed as #3 on this list.

      Reply
  11. Lark shriver

    What does bcaa stand for?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Lark,

      BCAA (branch chain amino acids).

      Reply
  12. Jeje

    I’m 30 years old , which one you recomend ??

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jeje,

      What are your goals?

      Reply
  13. Curt Thomas

    I’m looking at a nutrition plan that calls for both whey and casein proteins and prescribes that they be used at different times (e.g. around workout schedules and bedtime, etc.) based on the understanding that whey is quicker to absorb than casein. I’d like to incorporate collagen protein into my diet. Which would be best to substitute the collagen for, the whey or casein? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Curt,

      This would depend on your goals. What are you trying to achieve with the whey, casein, and collagen?

      Reply
  14. Virginia

    Hi,

    Protein vs Collagen Peptides is confusing me. Currently I am using Perfotek and the label says Collagen Peptides = 11g and above the line it says Protein = 10g. I am 66 and trying to increase my protein intake (I am 5’4″ and weigh about 115) and have started exercising to get in shape. I bought the Perfotek in the hope it would help with sarcopenia and crepe skin and generally increase my health. The question I have is: If I take 2 scoops (servings) of the Perfotek (one in AM, one in PM) does that mean I have enough protein for the day? Does it count toward the 46 recommended daily amount of protein or do I need another product of just protein powder? I also take a multivitamin and wheat germ oil. Please help. Thank you, Virginia

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Virginia,

      If your goal is 46 grams of protein, then yes, you would be getting 44 grams of protein with 4 scoops daily. However, you would still want other sources of protein to balance out the amino acid profile. Collagen is missing tryptophan, so focusing on tryptophan-rich foods would be important.

      Reply
      • Virginia

        Thank you so much for your quick reply.

        Have a very good day,
        Virginia

        Reply
  15. Cindy

    So I am so confused on which is best the whey protein powder or a collagen powder. I am 62 and am looking to add the extra protein to my diet. I do a smoothie in the mornings and have been using the whey protein powder. But am seeing a lot of talk about collagen. I am also osteopenia. So which is better and how much grams per day?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Cindy,

      Ultimately it comes down to your goals. If you are trying to increase protein intake, lean muscle and antioxidant support, my opinion is that whey protein is going to the best choice. If you are trying to increase collagen and the health of your skin, hair, nails, bones and digestive tract, collagen is a better choice. There is nothing wrong with rotating both as well.

      Since you have osteopenia, rotating in some collagen would be something to consider. The typical dose is 12-20 grams. This is from the article: “Collagen makes up to 90% of bone mass, and taking it can improve bone metabolism. The arrival of collagen peptides on the scene also stimulates osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. Bones are living tissues, and collagen helps contribute to their continued strength and flexibility.”

      Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Vivi,

      The quality of the product looks good. I think the main difference to point out is that the full dose (6 capsules) yields 6 grams of collagen. There are 250 capsules for $19.40, which would yield about 41 servings. The Vital Proteins product contains 10g per scoop (serving size is 2 scoops), which would yield 56 servings for 4 grams more of collagen at $43.00. Neocell is 47 cents per serving for 6 grams, while Vital Proteins costs 76 cents per scoop for 10 grams. Not a whole lot of savings when you factor the dosage difference. However, I saw a Neocell buy one get 50% off deal on Walgreens here: https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/neocell-super-collagen—c-type-1-&-3-tablets/ID=prod6156843-product

      Vital proteins also contains hyaluronic acid, which is synergistic with collagen and very beneficial for skin health if that is the goal. The question is if the Neocell dosage is high enough for you to get results. The clinical study was done by the company, so I would take that result with a grain of salt.

      I have also added another collagen product to the article that I have been using.

      Reply
  16. Jon

    Hey Alex,

    I wanted to get your thoughts on the different types of collagen and which type is the most researched and best. I notice some collagens have type I and III and the one below has more types. In addition to what types do you consider most researched and best what are your thoughts on the below type compared to vital proteins in which you listed above? Do you still feel Vital Proteins as the best?

    https://www.amazon.com/Ancient-Nutrition-Collagen-Protein-Powder/dp/B01LXADO9Z

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jon,

      Great question. Type I (90% of the collagen in the body), II and III collagen are the most researched. Type I and III are often paired together, but I’m also not aware of any research showing that Type III is superior to Type I. Type II may be superior for cartilage-related issues, but Type I and Type II appear to accomplish the same effect in terms of reducing pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis studies. I’ve updated this article so you know which products contain each type.

      In terms of the Ancient Nutrition product, I see a product that is trying to differentiate itself from other collagen products, but I’m not convinced it is superior and may be more of a marketing approach. My main concern would be the allergy potential of this combination. Anecdotally, I haven’t seen any feedback that people are getting better results with this product than Type I collagen products. I think one of the biggest benefits comes from increasing the glycine pool in relation to methionine from muscle meat, which can be accomplished with Type I collagen. I’ve continued to use Great Lakes because I don’t see any measurable difference for my goals from other collagen products, and it is a better price.

      Reply
  17. Jon

    Thank you Alex. Based on the above collagens is there one you feel is better than the other? I did notice Promix has a collagen as well. I plan on using both a whey and a collagen. I plan on using the Promix Whey Isolate and then one of those 3 collagens. Any thoughts? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hey Jon,

      Honestly, I really couldn’t tell a difference. But I’ve talked to people swear by hyaluronic acid in combination with collagen for the skin benefits. My purpose is strictly athletic, and Great Lakes does the job with the best price.

      Reply
  18. Charlie

    Nice article! I take CB Supplements Multi-Collagen daily and combine it Ascent Whey protein after workouts. Makes the perfect shake – muscle growth and recovery. Also, CB Supplements Multi-Collagen is all these vital proteins you recommend in one product. Check them out!

    Reply
  19. Donald

    Thanks for the informative article. Would you please send me the link to the following study. “One study that measured effects of daily intake of collagen peptides on the structure of the Achilles tendon found a significant increase in collagen fiber diameter, suggesting improved strength of the tendon as a result of collagen supplementation.”
    I recently rupture my Achilles Tendon and would appreciate it. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Donald,

      I’m not sure what happened to the study link. I just added the hyperlink back to the article. You can find it here.

      Reply
  20. Cosmin

    Hello Alex! Thank you for the article. I saw you recommended products from Vital Proteins which is owned by Nestle. How come you trust this company? Besides the fact that they are known for scandals involving unethical laboring and toxicity they are known(as almost every other multibillion dollar company like Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Colgate-Palmolive, etc.) for buying good, quality brands and ruining them by “cutting corners” and lowering production costs resulting in lower quality and sourcing of ingredients resulting in lower quality products.

    I’m trying to buy a quality collagen supplement for my mother(49) and I was wondering if it can interfere in some way with her gallstones? Not sure if this matter but she is vegetarian.

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Cosmin,

      I was actually not aware that Nestle bought Vital Proteins. They are purchasing so many companies it’s hard to keep up. Thank you for letting me know. From what I’ve seen, some supplements remain the same and the supply chain doesn’t change, but some definitely do get modified for cheaper ingredients and become worse quality. I’ll look deeper into the Vital Proteins supply chain and make adjustments to this recommendation if needed. As you will see from many of my articles, I seek out many smaller, independent companies that focus on higher-quality ingredients, more extensive purity testing, and full transparency.

      I’m not aware of issues with collagen powder and gallstones. Patients with gallstones have been found to have low levels of glycine and cysteine due to the drain on glutathione. Depending on the foods included in her vegetarian diet, she could have very low levels of each amino acid.

      Reply

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