Add collagen to your diet daily for a naturally youthful appearance!* Collagen enjoys a well-earned reputation within the world of skincare. Adding collagen supplements to your daily diet can keep YOU looking younger, naturally!*

Research shows that the results of consuming collagen greatly surpass topical applications. You can improve your skin, hair, and joint health with quality collagen products — helping you look YOUNGER from top to bottom! [1][2]*

Related posts:

• How To Maximize Your Collagen Benefits
• 9 Ways to Use Yonder Collagen
• 10 Proven Benefits of Collagen Peptides

Hi, we're Sheri and Gina, the dynamic duo behind Yonder. As passionate health enthusiasts, we are dedicated to promoting natural wellness rooted in our faith. We believe that our bodies are beautifully designed by God, and by nurturing them with the best nature has to offer, we can honor His creation. We created Yonder to provide top-quality collagen products that support vibrant, youthful living. Our mission is to help others achieve radiant health from the inside out.

First off — What Is Collagen?

Collagen is a complex protein with an astounding amount of amino acids. Not all of the essential amino acids are in collagen; however, the amino acids that make up collagen are very important and are often lacking in your daily diet. While your body can produce non-essential amino acids, consuming them through your diet ensures you get an adequate supply to support overall health.

The specific amino acids in collagen are vital for maintaining the strength and flexibility of skin, hair, nails, bones, and joints [3]. These unique amino acids are also very beneficial to your gut flora. [4] By adding collagen peptides to your diet, you can help fill the gaps that are often present in typical protein sources, promoting overall well-being and healthy aging.

When under stress, your body creates fewer non-essential (or conditional) amino acids. Unfortunately, many of us are chronically stressed. This can lead to a depletion of these conditional amino acids (as well as a host of other problems!).

So, keep yourself healthy and looking young with collagen supplements — like our collagen peptides in flavorless, vanilla with MCT or chocolate. You’ll see the difference in your skin, hair, and nails; you’ll also feel the difference in your joints and gut!*

What's the difference between collagen and collagen peptides?

Collagen is a large protein molecule, which can be somewhat challenging for the human body to digest and absorb in its whole form.

This is where collagen peptides come into play. Collagen peptides are simply collagen proteins that have been hydrolyzed — that is, broken down into smaller, more easily digestible, and absorbable forms.

This process maintains all the beneficial properties of collagen while making it more user-friendly for your body.

The key benefit of collagen peptides lies in their enhanced higher bioavailability.

Because they are smaller and more easily absorbed, your body can effectively use them to support healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints [5].

This means you can enjoy all the health benefits of collagen more efficiently.

Think of collagen peptides as a highly accessible form of collagen, delivering all-important amino acids directly to where your body needs them most.

What's the difference between collagen hydrolysate and collagen peptides

In essence, collagen hydrolysate (also called hydrolyzed collagen) and collagen peptides are terms often used interchangeably. Both refer to collagen that has undergone the hydrolysis process to break down the proteins into more bioavailable peptides.

The main difference lies in the terminology; while "collagen peptides" highlights the focus on the smaller peptide chains, "collagen hydrolysate" emphasizes the process - hydrolysis - that transforms whole collagen into these readily absorbable forms.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids. These shorter chains of amino acids make it easier for your body to digest and absorb the collagen.

Unhydrolyzed collagen, on the other hand, is the whole form of collagen and is often used in topical products. While it can still provide some benefits to the skin, consuming hydrolyzed forms - such as collagen peptides - allows for better utilization by the body.

 

What’s in Hydrolyzed Collagen?

To truly understand the benefits of collagen, it's essential to comprehend the role of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Amino acids are vital for various body functions, including muscle building, hormone production, and tissue repair.

Once the traveling peptides and amino acids reach your skin, they assemble to form collagen. To form the complex helix of the collagen compound, every amino acid in the molecular chain must be present.

Trace amounts of certain amino acids, as well as a few major players, make up the complete sequence in the collagen chain.

Beyond its essential amino acids, hydrolyzed collagen is also comprised of:

• Proline / Hydroxyproline — 25%
• Glycine — 20%
• Glutamic Acid — 11%
• Alanine — 8%
• Arginine — 8%
• Others in trace amounts

Read this post to learn more about amino acids glycine: A Deep Dive into Glycine: The Underestimated Amino Acid for Graceful Aging

These components combine to form an incredibly abundant protein. Think of these as powerhouses of activity; their properties extend well beyond your skin.

Your joints, your gut, muscle growth, mental health, sleep quality, hormones, and your immune system all improve with these types of amino acids. [6]* Collagen even helps those with leaky gut — a common issue in the digestive tract that can lead to chronic health challenges.*

Looking young doesn’t end with your skin care regimen. Collagen, in any form, is beneficial for you.* Hydrolyzed collagen, however, ups the absorption rate from 27% to over 90%!

Take care of your ENTIRE body with Yonder hydrolyzed collagen.

Is Collagen a complete protein?

While collagen is packed with numerous amino acids, it is not considered a complete protein. A complete protein contains all nine essential amino acids in adequate amounts necessary for our dietary needs. Collagen notably lacks tryptophan, one of the essential amino acids. Tryptophan is one of the 9 essential amino acids that form complete proteins.

If the goal is to achieve a complete protein profile with collagen, this can be effortlessly accomplished by incorporating foods rich in tryptophan into one's diet, thereby completing the essential amino acid profile.

The primary objective of consuming collagen regularly is typically to elevate collagen levels back to a more youthful state, and it’s important to note that supplementing with tryptophan is not necessary to achieve this objective.

However, ensuring your diet includes foods that are complete proteins or contain tryptophan does guarantee a sufficient intake of complete proteins. By consuming these foods on a daily basis, you would automatically create a complete protein when taking your collagen.

This approach assures a balanced and abundant intake of essential amino acids. Foods abundant in tryptophan include nuts and seeds, a variety of fruits and vegetables, seafood, dairy products, grains, eggs, pea protein powder, and poultry, such as turkey and chicken.

Consuming a diet rich in these wholesome foods is a practical and simple way to ensure all essential amino acid intake, making collagen a part of a well-rounded, protein-rich diet.

Yonder Creamy Vanilla Collagen Protein with MCTs includes Pea Protein powder, making it a complete protein formula. Try it to get your complete protein fix!

What is Collagen's Main Role?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, acting as the primary structural component of connective tissues [7].

It plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and integrity of our skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage.* 

Essentially, collagen is the "glue" that holds our bodies together, providing elasticity and firmness to our skin and ensuring the flexibility and resilience of our joints and bones.*

Not only does it support physical structure, but it also aids in tissue regeneration and repair, allowing the body to repair wounds and maintain overall health.* 


Our natural collagen production declines as we age, underscoring the importance of incorporating collagen-rich foods or supplements into our daily routines to support our body's foundational framework.

Health Benefits of Collagen and Collagen Peptides

Collagen and collagen peptides offer various health benefits, promoting overall wellness through their powerful properties.

Regular intake can significantly improve your skin's elasticity and hydration, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines [8]. It can also strengthen hair and nails, making them less prone to breakage and damage [9].* 

Furthermore, collagen supports joint health by maintaining your cartilage's integrity, aiding in healthier and more comfortable movement.* 

For those dealing with gut health issues, collagen can help by supporting our natural ability to repair and seal the gut lining, potentially easing symptoms of discomfort and promoting better digestion.*


By incorporating collagen or collagen peptides into your daily routine, you invest in a more radiant, youthful appearance and enhance your overall health.
Remember, the journey to wellness is a continuous process, and nourishing your body with essential proteins like collagen is a step toward a vibrant, healthy life.

Read this post on other benefits of collagen peptides: Benefits of Collagen for Heart Health: More Than Just Skin Deep

Type of Collagen (1, 2, and 3)

The term “collagen” actually refers to an entire family of proteins. There are 28 members in the family of proteins, claiming roughly 25-35% of ALL protein mass in our bodies.

Each member of this protein family differs slightly. The most common collagen proteins are, not surprisingly, Type 1 and 3.

Type 1 and 3 collagen is responsible for 90% of the organic bone mass in animals and humans. Type 1’s territory extends to tendons, ligaments, the cornea, and more. The inner layer of the skin — the dermis — also falls within the domain of this dominant collagen: 80% of human skin is Type 1 collagen.

Type 2 collagen focuses on cartilage, rather than skin. Cartilage is a type of connective tissue found in our joints. Type 2 collagen is so effective at building cartilage that healthcare professionals frequently recommend it for those with joint discomfort.*

Type 3 collagen dabbles a bit in both worlds. It joins Type 1 and adds an extra 15% of collagen to our skin. Type 3 collagen is also found with Type 2 in our cartilage. It finds a home in your heart, forming essential tissues and blood vessels. Type 3 collagen serves as a structural component of cartilage in the extracellular matrix. Although your joints are not the primary area of concentration of type 3 collagen, type 3 collagen is an integral part of the bone and joint matrix that has a lot to do with supporting joint health.

Type 3 plays a very important role is supporting healthy flexible joints.* Where the bones meet at the synovial joints are covered with a thin layer of cartilage known as articular cartilage. (Aricular simple means “having to do with joints”).

People with damage to the cartilage in a joint (articular cartilage damage) will experience: Inflammation – the area swells, becomes warmer than other parts of the body, and is tender, sore, and painful. Type 3 collagen plays a vital role in supporting the natural healing process of joints from aging or injury [10}.*

Hydrolyzed collagen is pre-digested, reduced to shorter peptide chains to enhance digestion, absorption, and assimilation. The body then uses these peptides to reform collagen as needed. The body determines where the collagen is most needed and converts it into the necessary 'type.' The natural design of the body ensures it makes the right decision. Hence, there are numerous positive studies on Bovine Collagen Peptides (BCP), which is Type 1 & 3, being beneficial for joint health as well.*

 

Why We Lose Collagen

As we age, our collagen production decreases. When we reach 30, our bodies stop producing collagen entirely. Our body’s existing collagen begins breaking down; we lose roughly 1-2% each and every year. (Wrinkles and loosening skin are clear evidence of diminishing collagen!) Stress, diet, and gut-health all impact how much collagen our bodies maintain.

Luckily, you can RAMP UP your collagen levels with smart choices and a healthy lifestyle. There are two main methods: amino acid supplements and hydrolyzed collagen supplements. Amino acid supplements supply our body with the building blocks to produce more collagen.

Hydrolyzed collagen, on the other hand, already IS collagen.

Hydrolyzed collagen is more effective than amino acid supplements. Consuming ​collagen peptide supplements, rather than amino acid supplements, provides you with the exact ratio of amino acids needed to build a complete collagen compound.

What Type Of Collagen Is Best?

When choosing the best type of collagen for your needs, it’s important to consider your specific health goals.

If your primary focus is on enhancing the health and appearance of your skin, hair, and nails, Type 1 and 3 collagen are your best allies. These types, predominant in the dermis, help maintain skin elasticity and skin hydration, reduce wrinkles, and promote stronger hair and nails.

For those with joint or cartilage concerns, Type 2 collagen is most beneficial. It specifically supports cartilage structure and joint health, contributing to more flexible and pain-free movement [11].*

Interestingly, when you take Type 1 and 3 collagen peptides, your body breaks them down into amino acids. These amino acids can then be used to support the production of various types of collagen, including Type 2, based on the body’s needs. This makes Type 1 and 3 collagen peptides a versatile choice for overall health.

While we realize there are a lot of multi-type collagen supplements out there, from all that we have researched, many multi-type collagen brands do not have enough of each type to truly make a difference. That is why we recommend a collagen peptide formula that focuses on types 1 & 3.

Ultimately, the best collagen supplement for you depends on your individual health priorities.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable option for your dietary needs and health objectives.

Regular intake, alongside a balanced diet and active lifestyle, can help you enjoy the multitude of benefits collagen offers.

Do collagen peptides actually work?

Absolutely, collagen peptides have been widely researched and have shown promising results in various studies.

When you consume collagen peptides, your body breaks them down into smaller units that can be easily absorbed and utilized. This bioavailability makes collagen peptides exceptionally effective in supporting skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and promoting joint health.* 

Users often report noticeable improvements in the texture and appearance of their skin, as well as reduced joint discomfort.*

Moreover, collagen peptides support gut health by helping to fortify the gut lining, improving digestion, and reducing symptoms of a leaky gut.* They also contribute to muscle mass and strength, making them a valuable supplement for athletes and those engaged in regular physical activity. By integrating collagen peptides into your daily regimen, you're fostering a holistic approach to health that benefits various bodily functions.

It’s worth noting that consistency is key.
Regular consumption over an extended period is necessary to observe the full range of benefits. As always, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to tailor the dosage and type of collagen to your specific needs.

Collagen peptides are not just a trend; they are a scientifically-backed supplement that can make a significant difference in your overall wellness.

Read this blog to learn more: Scientifically Backed Benefits of Collagen for Hair Health

What we Noticed After Taking Collagen Powder?

 

Sheri's Testimony
In 1999 at 30 years old, with a newborn baby, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, the same cancer that had claimed my brother's life at 27. Terrified but determined, I underwent harsh chemotherapy and radiation treatments, which took a toll on my body. As a new mom, I knew I had to be strong for my children. This led me to research natural ways to heal and nourish my body. I changed my diet, started eating clean, and made homemade bone broth rich in natural collagen and added clean hydrolyzed collagen peptides. Adding high-quality, clean collagen peptides into my daily routine led to remarkable improvements in rebuilding my body from the inside out. My joints were feeling better and I was just starting to feel stronger. My hair grew back lush and healthy, my nails grew strong and long. I know it helped to strengthen my bones and help me regain muscle. It helped turn back the clock and look youthful which was an added benefit! 

Gina's Testimony
My health journey began with a lifelong battle with chronic bladder infections caused by interstitial cystitis, a painful bladder condition. Antibiotics were the only solution provided by doctors, but they wreaked havoc on my gut health. Over time, I discovered that collagen significantly contributed to healing my gut and strengthening my bladder. I initially started taking collagen on the advice of a friend for my hair and nails. At the time, I had no idea what collagen was or how it worked—I just blindly took it. (I wasn’t the researcher that I am now, that’s for sure!) But what I discovered was how it helped to heal my gut and soothed my bladder. My bloating was reduced, and so was the pain and discomfort that I always had in my gut.

I had been taking collagen for about 3-4 months when I finally saw my sister, and she asked me if I was using a new skincare product. I hadn't changed a thing besides adding collagen to my daily routine—religiously!

I then dove into learning all I could about collagen. It was reassuring to discover that everything I was experiencing was well-documented. This experience opened my eyes to the multiple benefits of collagen beyond just hair and nail health. Collagen is truly an amazing supplement. One that I will never go without.

To learn more about our story, visit our page about our story.

How Long Before I Start Seeing Results

For most, this will depend on what you are using it for and the current state of your health. Many people start to see results within 30-90 days, sometimes sooner. As with most supplements, results are dependent on consistency.*

Best Collagen Supplements - What to look for

Finding the best form of collagen for your needs can significantly enhance the benefits of this powerful supplement.

When incorporating collagen into your diet, it’s important to note: not all collagen supplements are created equal.

Collagen hydrolysate is a hydrolyzed form of collagen — meaning the protein is broken down into smaller molecular chains called collagen peptides. Uptake of these smaller peptides is much easier for your body than the original large protein.

Collagen supplements that aren’t hydrolyzed are too big to be absorbed effectively. However, if collagen is hydrolyzed, your small intestine easily absorbs the smaller collagen peptides and amino acids into the bloodstream.

Studies show that when hydrolyzed, the collagen absorption process can take place within an hour [12]! Once in the bloodstream, it’s distributed exactly where it needs to go!

Read the blog: How We Source and Make Our Collagen: Our Commitment to Quality

Why don't you add Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, multi-types of collagen, or tryptophan to your formula?

The choice not to add Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, other types of collagen, or tryptophan to our formula is a deliberate one, rooted in a commitment to provide you with the highest quality and most effective supplement. Here are the key reasons behind this decision:

• Harming Bioavailability: The addition of Vitamin C & Hyaluronic Acid can act as a pro-oxidant and oxidize the collagen’s amino acids during storage, potentially damaging the bioavailability of the amino acids.

• Vitamin C: Most people are not deficient in Vitamin C and a daily value of 90 mg can be achieved through dietary sources such as an orange. Consuming real food that is rich in Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and other vitamins and minerals is the best way to enrich the body with essential vitamins and minerals. Collagen synthesis requires nearly every vitamin we have, not just C. Eating real food for your Vitamin C gives you other vitamins and minerals to aid in collagen synthesis. Bone Broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, an orange, and sweet potatoes are just a few examples of real food to incorporate in your daily diet to maximize your collagen supplementation.

• Diluting Potency: Type I & III collagen make up 90% of our body’s collagen and are the most potent types for increasing youthful levels. Adding other, less effective types dilutes the potency of the top two.

• Tryptophan: As previously stated, the primary objective of consuming collagen regularly is typically to elevate collagen levels back to a more youthful state, and it’s important to note that supplementing with tryptophan is not necessary to achieve this objective. However, ensuring your diet includes foods that are complete proteins or contain tryptophan does guarantee a sufficient intake of complete proteins. Adding tryptophan to collagen supplements is possible, but it may not be the best choice. Here are the key reasons why we choose not to do this:

• Effectiveness and Safety: Tryptophan is a fragile amino acid, and the process of integrating it into a collagen powder can often destroy it. This not only reduces its effectiveness but also creates potentially harmful toxins. This concern is similar to why we avoid adding vitamin C to our collagen products. In essence, mixing tryptophan with collagen compromises both efficacy and safety.

• Sufficient Dietary Intake: Most people get enough tryptophan from their diet. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for tryptophan in adults is 250mg to 425mg. Here’s how much tryptophan is in some common foods:
• 6 oz chicken breast: 687mg
• 6 oz steak: 636mg
• 3 oz hamburger patty: 114mg
• 1 cup of firm tofu: 592mg
• 6 oz salmon fillet: 570mg
• 16 oz milk: 211mg
• 1 large egg: 77mg

As you can see, meeting your daily tryptophan needs is pretty easily achieved with a balanced diet. Therefore, adding tryptophan to collagen supplements is unnecessary and redundant.

• Unnecessary Cost & Less Potent: Avoiding marketing gimmicks and extra costs from other brands that include ingredients that are unnecessary, which can dilute the potency of the collagen and reduce its effectiveness.

 Our flavorless collagen peptides are a great choice for daily collagen update.

Is Bovine Bone Broth Better?

One of the most recommended sources for hydrolyzed collagen supplementation is bone broth. Beef, chicken, and fish are optimal for obtaining beneficial bone broth. Depending on the animal sources you choose, you’ll receive different types of collagen (Type 1, Type 2, etc…) when consuming your bone broth.

Check out our recipe here! Gelatin Beef Bone Broth Recipe

Bovine collagen peptides found in bovine (beef) bone broth is rich in Type 1 and 3 collagen. These same two collagen types make up the overwhelming majority of collagen in your skin. Chicken, however, largely contains Type 2 collagen. Fishbone broth mainly remains with Type 1 and boasts an enhanced bioavailability when compared to other bone broths.

All mindfully-sourced animal bone broths provide beneficial collagen. If your focus is on skin health, however, bovine bone broth may be the most suitable for you.

Skincare Studies show that by consuming 5-15 grams of collagen daily, you can receive the benefits of stronger hair, nails, smoother skin, healthier joints, and so much more. Benefits can include improved skin elasticity and moisture — as well as reduced wrinkles and fine lines!*

Incorporating Collagen into Your Daily Diet

In most modern households, collagen consumption rates are drastically low. We no longer spend hours in the kitchen crafting gravy and stock from unaltered animal parts. Unfortunately, many great amino acids from hydrolyzed collagen are ONLY available through particular protein sources.

It is SO important that we also replace the collagen our ancestors obtained through their cooking habits. Studies show that by consuming 5-15 grams of collagen daily, you can receive the benefits of stronger hair, nails, smoother skin, healthier joints, and so much more. Begin with a smaller amount and gradually increase. 

The amount of collagen you need depends on various factors such as age, degree of pain, stress levels, etc. Here is a recommended daily amount based on desired effects:

• 5-10 grams of collagen each day Increases glycine and proline production which supports your body in making collagen.
• 10-20 grams per day: Boosts energy, promotes weight management, reduces inflammation, improves gut health and digestion, and enhances skin, hair, and nail health.*
• 20-40 grams per day: Promotes overall healing, joint health, cellular replenishment, digestive lining repair, weight loss, and muscle building.*

 

What is the downside of taking collagen

As with anything, some people may experience mild digestive discomfort when trying new supplements, including collagen. The upside is that collagen has amino acids that help to feed the good bacteria in your gut, which aids in the overall health of your gut flora. In particular, collagen contains glycine, proline, and glutamine—amino acids known to support gut health by strengthening the gut lining and reducing inflammation. These benefits can help improve digestion and promote a balanced microbiome over time.

If you are sensitive, you may want to begin with a smaller dose and gradually increase, to the suggested amount. That being said, collagen is generally well tolerated with few reported side effects.*

Is it better to take collagen in the morning or at night?

Whether you take collagen in the morning or at night largely depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences. For some, starting the day with a collagen-infused coffee or smoothie provides an energizing boost and ensures they don't forget to take their supplement. Morning intake can also coincide with the body's natural rhythm of repair and regeneration, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.

On the other hand, taking collagen at night can be beneficial for those who prefer a calming, bedtime routine. Collagen peptides taken before sleep can assist with the body's overnight repair processes, such as skin regeneration and muscle recovery.* Night-time intake may also promote better sleep quality, as collagen contains glycine, an amino acid known for its calming and sleep-enhancing properties.


Ultimately, the best time to take collagen is the time that fits seamlessly into your daily routine, ensuring consistent usage. Regular, sustained intake is the key to reaping the full benefits of this powerful supplement, whether your preference is for a morning boost or a restful night's nourishment.

Can I drink coffee after collagen?

Absolutely! You can enjoy your coffee right after taking collagen. In fact, combining collagen with your morning coffee is a popular way to incorporate this supplement into your daily routine.

The heat from the coffee does not affect the benefits of collagen, making it an effortless addition to your beverage.

Have you tried our Organic Mushroom Coffee?
Check out this post for brewing tips: How to Brew & Use our Organic Coffee

Many people find that adding collagen peptides to their coffee enhances the drink with a creamy texture, without altering the taste.

Now, let's talk about the added benefits of incorporating Yonder's collagen into your coffee.

Whether you opt for the Flavorless Collagen, which enhances your coffee with a creamy texture and a subtle umami undertone, or you indulge in the delicious flavors of Yonder's Chocolate or Creamy Vanilla collagen, you're not just sweetening your cup, you're also introducing the benefits of collagen protein.

Whether you prefer a traditional black coffee, a frothy latte, or a nutritious smoothie, collagen can seamlessly blend in, encouraging a habit of daily consumption. This method boosts your collagen intake and makes your morning ritual even more nourishing.

So go ahead, sip your coffee, and soak up the goodness of collagen!

Ready to Elevate Your Wellness Routine?

There's never been a better time to prioritize your health and beauty from within. With Yonder's clean collagen products, you can effortlessly enhance your daily rituals with the nourishing benefits of premium, mindfully sourced collagen.

Whether you blend it into your morning coffee, mix it into a smoothie, or simply stir it into a glass of water, our collagen products are designed to support your skin, hair, nails, joints, and overall well-being.* 

Shop Yonder Clean Collagen Products Delicious Chocolate, Vanilla and Flavorless Collagens. Now and take the first step towards a healthier, more radiant you!