When it comes to health and wellness, collagen comes up time and time again. An essential protein, it provides structure and support to our skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues. But unfortunately, our bodies produce less and less over time which is why people commonly turn to supplements to boost their levels.
We’ve all heard about the benefits of collagen supplements but with multiple options available, where do you begin? Rest assured that we have you covered. Bovine collagen vs. marine collagen: what’s better? There are key differences that you might want to consider. Continue reading to find out.
Understanding the Types of Collagen
There are three main types of collagen found in supplements, and bovine and marine collagen differ in the types of collagen that they provide. Let’s begin by understanding each type.
Type 1
This is the most common collagen type found in the body. It aids elasticity, providing benefits such as stronger nails, healthier hair and firmer skin.
Type 2
This is commonly found in cartilage and is great for joint and skeletal health. It helps us to move effectively and recover well.
Type 3
Collagen type 3 works to keep our muscles, organs and arteries working optimally, contributing to our overall health and wellbeing.
Bovine Collagen
Bovine collagen is a protein that is found in connective tissue, bones, cartilage and the hides of cows. It’s the most common type of collagen that you’ll come across in supplement form. If you see products labelled as simply ‘collagen’, they are most likely bovine. You’ll usually find this collagen available in powder, tablet or liquid format.
Containing primarily type 1 and type 3 collagen, bovine collagen provides you with a range of benefits including:
- Improved skin hydration, firmness and texture
- Strengthened hair and nails that are less prone to breakage
- Improved bone and joint health
- Improved digestion and gut health
It’s also more widely available and therefore more affordable than marine collagen, making it the more popular choice of supplement.
Marine Collagen
On the contrary, marine collagen is derived from fish skin and scales, making them a popular choice among pescatarians and those who do not consume beef products. This collagen is extremely rich in type 1 collagen which is great for skin health but lacks in types 2 and 3. As a result, many people choose marine collagen for beauty and anti-wrinkle purposes. Other benefits include:
- Enhanced skin hydration, elasticity and smoothness
- Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
- Efficient skin repair and regeneration due to quick absorption rates
A more sustainable and eco-friendly choice, marine collagen is often considered a more ethical supplement than bovine. This does, however, make it a more expensive choice.
Which Collagen Should You Choose?
As both offer huge benefits, it can be hard to decide on which collagen to choose. If you are having trouble deciding, consider your primary goal. If you are looking to support skin health, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and boost your skin hydration levels, then marine collagen is the one to choose. If you are looking for a collagen that contributes to your overall health and wellbeing as well, bovine is the better option. Depending on the dosage that you take, you could even incorporate both into your routine. But do seek the advice of a professional to ensure that you are taking the right dose of each for your needs.
Source High-Quality Supplements
No matter whether you opt for bovine or marine collagen, ensure that you are purchasing quality supplements. Choose grass-fed bovine collagen for joint health and enhanced overall wellbeing, and ethically sourced marine collagen for maximum skin health. From the sourcing to the manufacturing, every step impacts the quality of collagen that you are getting so you must do your research.
Learn More at IKKARI
If you want to learn more about the benefits of collagen and the best type for your needs, get in touch with our friendly team. We are experts in our field, providing a comprehensive range of natural products that will enhance your overall health and wellbeing. We look forward to hearing from you soon.