People are increasingly becoming aware of the numerous documented benefits of incorporating collagen powder into their daily routine, especially for its anti-aging effects, including reducing wrinkles, improving skin thickness, alleviating joint pain, and improving digestive problems[16]. Additionally, collagen is amazing for enhancing wound recovery. Collagen is crucial for the optimal functioning of various bodily systems.

What is Collagen?

Collagen comprising approximately 30% of the body's total protein content. It serves as the building block for various tissues, including bones, tendons, skin, fascia, and ligaments. This protein consists of amino acid chains that include mostly proline, hydroxyproline and glycine, among others.

As we age, our bodies gradually produce less collagen, leading to a noticeable decline in its levels. This decrease in collagen is a primary factor contributing to the visible signs of aging, as well as the physical discomforts like aches and pains that often accompany the aging process.

What are the benefits of collagen powder?

I have outlined research-backed benefits of collagen powder supplements. Each benefit is substantiated by scientific studies, and you can find the corresponding references marked throughout this information for easy verification. The references are provided at the end for your convenience.

It's essential to emphasize that not all collagen powder brands are created equal.  Unfortunately, many top-selling collagen brands, including some well-known ones, use subpar collagen that may contain contaminants or have an off taste, and dissolve poorly. These brands operate by putting profits ahead of customer well-being.

"We prioritize your well-being over profits"

That's where Yonder Collagen comes in. We are two women who healed ourselves own severe health issues with high-quality collagen, we've spent over five years sourcing the cleanest, most effective collagen available. We prioritize your well-being over profits because, to us, you're not just a customer, you're part of our family and we are your "mama bears". Trust in Yonder as a brand that puts your health first. We use the cleanest, highest quality and most pure collagen. Our advanced enzymatic hydrolysis process that breaks down the collagen fiber molecule creates a 97% pure blend of 19 amino acids in the form of peptides, optimizing the bioavailability and absorption of our collagen supplement.

1. Better Skin

One of the most celebrated advantages of collagen powder is its ability to rejuvenate and firm up the skin from the inside out. As we age and collagen depletes, skin tends to become thinner and more prone to wrinkling, while also losing its natural moisture and vibrancy. This condition is sometimes referred to as "crepey skin".

By supplementing with collagen, you can replenish the lost collagen, resulting in a subtle lift and tightening of the skin, which in turn diminishes the visibility of wrinkles[4] and cellulite. Collagen also aids in skin hydration, helping to maintain its moisture levels and thereby contributing to a more youthful, glowing appearance[5][6].

"By supplementing with collagen, you can replenish the lost collagen, resulting in a subtle lift and tightening of the skin, which in turn diminishes the visibility of wrinkles and cellulite."

There is a wealth of evidence accumulated over the past two decades supporting the use of collagen supplements for anti-aging skin benefits. A 2020 study involving women between 45 and 54 years old demonstrated significant improvements in skin elasticity, wrinkle reduction, enhanced hydration, radiance, and firmness[4].

Further studies carried out in March and June of 2021 corroborated these findings. These studies concluded that collagen supplements significantly lessened wrinkle depth and confirmed that "collagen induces noticeable improvements in both skin elasticity and hydration"[6][3].

2. Strong Bones

While calcium is often the first supplement people consider for bone health, there's compelling evidence to suggest that collagen powder also plays a key role in maintaining strong and healthy bones. Recent research indicates that collagen supplementation can not only stave off bone deterioration but may even reverse bone loss.

"Collagen supplements could serve as an effective measure for both preventing and treating bone loss."

A study conducted in January 2018 focused on post-menopausal women experiencing age-related decreases in bone mineral density (BMD), a condition known as osteopenia. The research found that collagen supplementation led to "a favorable shift in bone markers, signifying increased bone formation and decreased bone degradation." This implies that collagen supplements could serve as an effective measure for both preventing and treating bone loss, particularly in individuals with conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis.

3. Thicker Hair

Involutional alopecia refers to the natural hair thinning that comes with aging. As we get older, a greater number of hair follicles enter and remain in a "resting" phase for extended periods compared to earlier life stages. The silver lining is that these "resting" follicles can potentially be reactivated.

According to a double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in 2012, collagen powder supplements were found to "safely and effectively promote significant hair growth"[10]. The study's participants experienced enhancements in hair volume, scalp coverage, and hair thickness. Additional benefits included increased hair shine as well as improved skin moisture retention and smoothness[10].

Another research study observed increases in both total hair count and hair density among participants. The study also reported that, after beginning a regimen with collagen powder, hairs were less prone to shedding and were more securely anchored, making them harder to pull out[9].

4. Stronger Nails

Brittle nail syndrome is a common issue, particularly among women, characterized by nails that are rough, uneven in thickness, discolored, and prone to peeling. While the condition can be attributed to various factors like imbalanced moisture levels, a frequent underlying cause is a lack of sufficient collagen needed for healthy nail growth.

A study involving individuals with brittle nails revealed that collagen powder supplementation led to a 12% increase in the rate of nail growth and a 42% reduction in the occurrence of broken nails[11]. Impressively, 88% of the study participants experienced improvements in their nail condition after incorporating collagen powder into their routine, and 80% reported being fully satisfied with the results[11].

 

5. Healthy Heart

Despite the global health crisis caused by the pandemic in 2020, heart disease remained and increased as the leading cause of death, accounting for approximately 21% of adult fatalities that year[21]. The challenges of modern life, such as unhealthy diets and chronic stress, only add to the risk factors that contribute to the growing incidence of heart disease.

A study released in June of 2022 examined the impact of collagen supplementation on markers of cardiovascular health. It found that taking collagen supplements led to a significant reduction in levels of "bad cholesterol," or low-density lipoprotein (LDL)[12]. Elevated LDL levels are widely recognized as a major risk factor for developing heart disease.

This recent research also revealed that collagen supplementation can help lower blood pressure, which is essential for stroke prevention and overall heart health. Additionally, the study found that collagen could reduce fat accumulation and increase fat-free mass, such as bone and muscle[12].

 

6. Faster Recovery & Stronger Fascia

Collagen is vital for injury recovery, whether it's the typical soreness experienced after intense exercise or acute injuries like burns, cuts, and surgical wounds. The body relies on ample collagen to repair worn-out muscle tissue and facilitate wound healing through scar tissue formation and the strengthening of fascia. Fascia, which comprises 90% collagen, serves as a protective mesh around your internal organs and muscles. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, making wound recovery more challenging and time-consuming.

"Hydrolyzed collagen supplements could dramatically accelerate wound healing."

A 2019 study involving patients with severe burns showed promising results. Patients were administered either a placebo or a collagen supplement, and those receiving collagen experienced a wound healing rate that was 3.7 times faster compared to the placebo group. The study concluded that hydrolyzed (powdered) collagen supplements could dramatically accelerate wound healing and significantly reduce the duration of hospital stays for burn patients.[19]

Another research study examined recovery following strenuous exercise and found that collagen peptide supplements might offer a performance advantage the day after a high-impact workout session.[20]

7. Healthy Joints

As we age, joint pain is almost an inevitable issue to confront.  The cartilage in our joints, which contains collagen, starts to deteriorate. Our bodies struggle to replenish this collagen and repair the damaged cartilage, leading to reduced joint cushioning, inflammation, and discomfort.

Several research studies have illuminated the positive impact collagen supplements can have on joint health, especially as we age. One study found compelling evidence supporting the use of collagen supplements for treating and preventing joint-related issues in both athletic individuals and those at higher risk due to aging. The researchers noted that patients who took collagen experienced a notable reduction in joint pain, both while at rest and in motion[15].

Another study specifically aimed to assess the effects of collagen peptide powder on symptoms of osteoarthritis and other joint disorders. The research concluded that collagen does accumulate beneficially in joints and found that "collagen [supplementation] is safe and improves measures of pain and function in men and women with osteoarthritis or other arthritic conditions"[17].

8. Increased Muscle Mass

Boosting muscle mass might seem like a concern exclusive to bodybuilders and athletes, but it's an important consideration for everyone especially as we age. Enhanced muscle mass contributes to greater strength and stability, reducing the likelihood of falls. Furthermore, muscles serve as protective layers for our bones and organs; hence, a higher muscle mass can reduce the risk of organ damage or bone fractures in case of a fall. Also the more muscle mass, the faster our metabolism.

A 2021 study found that middle-aged men who were not athletes experienced significant benefits from taking collagen powder. Those who supplemented with collagen saw a notable increase in fat-free mass (essentially muscle) and a decrease in body fat. The control group, which received a different form of protein—whey—did not experience the same advantages[1]. This suggests that merely increasing protein intake is not sufficient; the type of protein matters. Another study involving elderly men yielded similar results[2].

 

9. Reduced Bloating & Digestive Issues

Bloating is a widespread issue that often results in discomfort and pain, particularly after consuming foods that irritate the digestive tract lining. Modern diets can make it challenging for our bodies to efficiently digest food, leading to a range of digestive complications like bloating, cramps, fluctuating episodes of constipation and diarrhea, and inflammation. Some theories also propose that "leaky gut"—a condition where the intestinal lining is compromised, allowing toxins to enter the bloodstream—can have broad-ranging impacts on overall health.

"Remarkably, 93% of the women who took collagen and completed the study reported a significant reduction in digestive symptoms, including bloating."

A study published in May 2022 examined whether collagen could alleviate bloating and other digestive concerns in healthy women. Remarkably, 93% of the women who took collagen and completed the study reported a significant reduction in digestive symptoms, including bloating, without making any other changes to their diet or lifestyle. Interestingly, the study also revealed that only about one-third of participants were aware that collagen could be used to improve digestive health[18]. 

10. Manageable Weight

We're all aware that carrying excess weight can lead to a myriad of health problems. While there's no magic solution to weight loss—effort is always required—you can optimize your chances of success by taking advantage of available tools. Collagen is one such tool that can assist in your weight loss journey.

As previously mentioned, collagen supplements have been found to not only reduce fat accumulation but also to increase fat-free mass[12]. Another study indicated that individuals who took collagen supplements experienced a significant improvement in body fat percentage and overall body fat mass compared to those who didn't[13]. Additionally, research suggests that collagen supplements may be helpful in targeting and reducing stubborn visceral (belly) fat[14].

 

Are all collagen powder supplements the same?

Not all collagen supplements are made the same! The quality, price, purity, and efficacy can vary widely among brands.

Many companies source their collagen from unreliable sources around the world for the cheapest price and prioritizing profits over consumer well-being. Some collagen products may be stale due to improper storage or are past their expiration date. We specifically avoid adding vitamin C in our formulas because, while vitamin C is crucial for collagen production optimization, mixing it with collagen peptides in a container can potentially oxidize and degrade the amino acids. Instead, we recommend incorporating whole-food sources of vitamin C into your diet. For instance, starting your day with a glass of lemon-infused water is a great way to naturally get your vitamin C. You do not have to consume vitamin C the same time you take your collagen either.

When it comes to bioavailability and effectiveness, hydrolyzed bovine collagen tops the list. Ensure that it's 100% grass-fed and finished and Glyphosate is never used on the grass pasture.  Yonder collagen meets these high standards. Many brands have “grass-fed” on their label but are only partial grass-fed and the rest grain fed loaded with contaminants. While there are other collagen types derived from eggs, fish, and chicken, these can be more expensive, less effective, and it's challenging to find clean sources for them.

Remember, collagen is not an instant fix; it takes time to work. Most people report noticeable improvements within 3 to 6 weeks. If you discontinue taking collagen, you'll likely notice a regression in the benefits—like achier joints or thinner nails and hair.

So, be patient and give collagen the time it needs to work its wonders. It's likely that the issues you're trying to address didn't develop overnight, so you can't expect instantaneous results. Stay committed, and give your body the time it needs to reap the benefits of collagen.

For your convenience we offer bundle deals in all 3 flavors, so that you can stay consistent. Yonder Collagen Peptides comes in Flavorless, Chocolate, and Vanilla w/MCT's

References