Collagen is a long-chain amino acid and makes up around 30% of the protein in the human body. It is found in our skin, bones and connective tissue. It’s essentially the ‘glue’ that holds us together. Once boiled, heated or cooked, it turns to gelatin.
So you’re probably thinking…. why should I care?
There are many benefits of introducing more collagen supplements (or gelatin) into your diet. These include:
- Stronger nails and smoother skin. I really notice how smooth and clear my skin is when having collagen regularly and my nails seem to break less;
- Healthier joints and stronger bones. Collagen has been found to be particularly good for helping to decrease joint pain and be beneficial in treating osteoarthritis and other joint disorders;
- Better recovery after exercise;
- Helps to regulate hormones;
- Improves sleep (when collagen or gelatin is taken just before bed); and
- Helps boost your metabolism and improve digestion.
Our bodies produce less collagen as we age – leading to saggy skin, wrinkles and lines, and weaker joints. You’ve most likely heard about celebrities using collagen injections to make themselves look younger. For me, I think I’ll stick with the cheaper (and far safer) way of having it in my daily diet.
So where can I get some of this stuff?
I buy Great Lakes Collagen Hydrolysate; which is a tasteless powder made from the skin of grass-fed cattle (sounds gross I know but it honestly has no flavour!). It is great as it dissolves into cold or hot liquids. Dave Asprey also makes a Collagen Powder and Collagelatin Powder (which is a mixture of collagen and gelatin).
My favourite ways to supplement with collagen:
1. Bone Broth
Broth made with grass-fed beef bones is a great source of gelatin. I usually have a cup of bone broth with my morning breakfast. I also use it when making slow-cooked meals (e.g. beef cheeks), sautéing vegetables and making soups.
2. Add a Collagen Supplement to Bulletproof Coffee (or Hot Chocolate)
I add 1 to 2 tablespoons of Collagen Powder to my Bulletproof coffee or hot chocolate. I also sometimes add the powder to my bone broth for a super collagen boost!
3. Desserts
I’ve used collagen powder when making Bulletproof Fudge and Bulletproof Chocolate Truffle Pudding. More dessert recipes can be found on the Bulletproof Executive site and Sarah Wilson has some delicious recipes for using gelatin to make gummies.
There are countless ways to add more collagen to your diet, and it goes well with many foods/drinks! From coffee and hot chocolate to healthy baked treats and fudge, it’s a great addition! What’s your favourite way to use collagen supplements? Please leave a comment below.