Different Forms Of Collagen: Peptides vs. Hydrolyzed vs. Gelatin vs. Bone Broth
The Many Sources Of Collagen
Collagen is a structural protein utilized throughout our bodies. Without it, we’d be in a literal slump. It supports our skin, joints, bones, and other connective tissue so we can move smoothly and bend easily (at least in the areas we’re supposed to!). You’ve probably heard about collagen supplements and how they can help maintain and improve overall health and wellness, but do you know which sources provides the most effective, bioavailable collagen? In this post, we’ll discuss the various forms of consumable collagen so that you can choose to supplement in the way that best suits your lifestyle!
Heivy liquid collagen supplements are rated #1 on Amazon, and we offer three formulas depending on the benefits you wish to achieve. After you’ve finished reading, check out our shop to learn more about our collagen supplement varieties for added energy, increased immunity, and support for your specific areas of concern.
Collagen Peptides
Collagen peptides result from the breakdown of full-length collagen molecules. Collagen in its natural state is a long chain of amino acids that the body cannot easily absorb. Through a process called hydrolysis, the collagen is reduced to shorter amino acid chains that are more bioavailable. After they are absorbed into the bloodstream, collagen peptides begin their journey repairing and improving the connective tissue throughout your body. Collagen peptides can come in liquid, pill, tablet, or powder form. Heivy chooses to offer liquid collagen for its high bioavailability.
Helpful Tip
Hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides are essentially the same thing. You can think of it this way: collagen that has undergone hydrolysis (and is thus hydrolyzed) becomes collagen peptides. When choosing a collagen supplement, you can confidently pick a product labeled as “hydrolyzed collagen” or “collagen peptides.”
Gelatin
Gelatin is formed by cooking collagen, aka boiling it in water. This process is also known as partial hydrolysis. Gelatin stops just short of completing hydrolysis, and thus does not become collagen peptides. Because it retains more length in its amino acid chains, gelatin is able to hold more water than a collagen peptide; this is why is exhibits its well-loved jiggly form.
You can buy gelatin premade or as a mix from the store in both flavored and unflavored varieties. Add gelatin to your drinks and favorite recipes for a boost of collagen (and protein), or simply enjoy it on its own. Choose a brand that utilizes minimal added ingredients and avoids artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors. Gelatin-based treats are a great way to incorporate the benefits of collage into the diets of picky eaters (aka our kids).
Bone Broth
Bone broth is made by boiling animal bones and cartilage in water until the collagen inside them undergoes partial hydrolysis, moving into the water in the form of gelatin. The gelatin dissolves into the water, at which point you are left with bone broth. In most cases you will want to add seasonings, spices, salt, and pepper to improve the taste and add more flavor. You can also include cooked vegetables in the broth for a more filling meal, or take the broth in a heat-safe travel cup for sipping on the go. Bone broth is a great base for heartier soups if the broth alone isn’t quite enough for you.
Keep in mind that, like gelatin, bone broth contains longer collagen chains than those of collagen peptides. It’s not going to be the most bioavailable form of collagen, but it can add variety to the ways in which you consume it. If you’re feeling unwell, bone broth can feel more comfortable to consume than chewy gelatin or collagen peptides mixed into a cold drink. To reap the full benefits of collagen peptides while still enjoying the warming, comforting effects of bone broth, consider mixing Heivy liquid collagen peptides into your favorite soup, or add it to actual bone broth for an even greater collagen intake.
A Quick Breakdown Of Collagen Forms
- Collagen peptides form when full-length collagen undergoes hydrolysis. The resulting amino acid chains are short and highly bioavailable, meaning the body can easily break down and absorb them.
- Hydrolyzed collagen is the same as collagen peptides — hydrolyzing collagen produces collagen peptides.
- Gelatin is collagen that has undergone partial hydrolysis and thus contains longer amino acid chains. These longer chains enable it to hold more water, giving it its firm but jiggly nature. It is less bioavailable than collagen peptides due to these longer chains.
- Bone broth is a mixture of water and dissolved gelatin from the collagen of boiled animal bones and cartilage. Like gelatin alone, it contains longer amino acid chains that are harder for the body to utilize.
Why Heivy Liquid Collagen Is The Most Bioavailable Collagen Supplement
If you’re choosing the best way to consume collagen based on bioavailability alone, collagen peptides are the clear winner. Heivy liquid collagen takes the bioavailability of collagen peptides even further by offering it in a convenient liquid form. Unlike collagen pills, tablets, and powders that must be taken or mixed with liquids anyway, our collagen comes ready-to-drink in individual serving bottles. Take your collagen on the go or simply enjoy it without the need for cleanup.
Heivy liquid collagen can be used in your favorite drinks, recipes, and even in bone broth. You can add our liquid collagen to gelatin mix, too, or use it alone for a simple, tasteless collagen boost any time of day. We offer three collagen formulas that each include a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and/or nutrients for added benefits:
- Heivy Skin, Hair, and Nail Formula with CoQ 10 and biotin to smooth and improve your skin and strengthen and increase the growth of your hair and nails
- Heivy Skin and Health Formula with vitamin C, added nutrients (lycopene, beetroot, spinach, olive, and black tea), and Synergene® Energy Boost Blend to promote stamina, immunity, and full-body wellness
- Heivy Skin, Joint and Bone Formula with vitamin D and calcium blend, and Synergene® Energy Boost Blend to help promote bone health and increase energy
If you’re looking for a different way to experience the benefits of collagen, try one of our collagen masks. If you have questions regarding Heivy liquid collagen supplements, their benefits, or which product to order for your needs, contact us today!