The benefits of marine collagen

First of all, you need to know that there is no such thing as plant collagen. When you read this name on a product, it acts to boost the synthesis of collagen naturally present in your body, but does not provide collagen as such. All sources of collagen are animal-based. They may come from bovine or marine sources. Collagen is also found in bone broths recommended by naturopaths. These broths can be made from cattle or chicken bones.

Marine collagen, on the other hand, is usually derived from a virtuous process that consists of 'up-cycling' or reusing 'by-products' from fishing, such as scales, skin and cartilage from fish and shellfish. To make it easier for the body to assimilate this collagen, it is hydrolysed into collagen peptides. This form of hydrolysed collagen makes it more bio-available to the body thanks to its low molecular weight.

Marine collagen is highly concentrated in the amino acids proline, glycine and hydroxyproline. It is reputed to plump, firm and smooth the skin, while reducing the appearance of deep wrinkles. Ideal as an anti-ageing active ingredient, it delays skin ageing. Marine collagen is available in powder or capsule form. To mask its sometimes iodised taste, it is often accompanied by natural fruit or vegetable flavours, making it easier to take orally.

Supplementing with marine collagen, as part of a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet, helps to compensate in part for the natural loss of collagen. It slows down its reduction, prevents its degradation and stimulates collagen synthesis. No food supplement can prevent ageing (which is a normal process!), but collagen food supplements canhelp tosupport these processes, so that we age beautifully, improve skin elasticity, and contribute to strong hair and more supple joints (depending on the type of collagen chosen).

Marine collagen is reputed to be one of the most easily assimilated by our bodies, due to its structure and amino acid composition, which is close to that of human collagen. Marine collagen acts in the same way as type I and II collagen in the human body.

Numerous studies suggest that supplementing with marine collagen is beneficial for relieving joint and tendon discomfort and improving joint mobility.

Thanks to its protein content of over 95%, collagen helps to increase muscle mass and maintain normal bone structure. Marine collagen is therefore an ideal food supplement for athletes. It supports the proper function of muscles, joints, tendons and cartilage, and helps reduce post-training discomfort.

We saw above how a diet rich in sources of vitamin C, zinc and sulphur can naturally stimulate collagen synthesis. To reinforce the benefits of such a diet, you can opt for a marine collagen-based supplement, in particular by choosing organic collagen. In powder, capsule or drink form: it's up to you to choose according to your tastes, desires and lifestyle habits.

Collagen powders are made from collagen peptides of marine origin. The powder form ensures high bioavailability, optimal digestibility and absorption, and lends itself to a number of uses. It can be added to a smoothie, taken in the form of collagen sticks for infusion, or diluted in a juice, yoghurt, soup or simple glass of water. There are 100% pure collagen peptide powders, like the one from Aroma-Zone, or powders that combine collagen hydrolysate and dehydrated fruit or vegetable powders.

For marine collagen powder: the usual dosage is around 5 to 10 grams a day, diluted in a glass of water or fruit juice. It is advisable to follow the specific instructions on the product packaging or consult a health professional for personalised advice.

There are marine collagen food supplements in the form of encapsulated capsules. The shell of these capsules is most often of plant origin. In this form, the capsules can be swallowed with a large glass of water at mealtimes. Many of these capsules combine marine collagen with vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium.

For marine collagen capsules: the dosage generally varies between 2 and 6 capsules a day, to be taken with a glass of water, preferably before meals. Once again, it is important to refer to the manufacturer's specific recommendations or seek the advice of a health professional.

Collagen stick drinks are available for a mobile collagen cure. These sticks come in a range of flavours, including vegetable broth, chocolate, Mocha and Matcha tea. The collagen drinks range also includes collagen-enriched fruit water drinks and liquid collagen cures in bottles, to be taken with a dosette.

Dosages may vary according to brand and formulation. It is advisable to follow the instructions on the product packaging or consult a specialist to determine the appropriate amount to consume per day.