What Is Collagen and Why Does It Matter?

From smoothies to skincare conversations, collagen is everywhere – but understanding what it actually does can make all the difference.

What is collagen?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and a major building block of our connective tissues. Think of it as the body’s internal scaffolding or “glue” that helps hold everything together – skin, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even the lining of the gut. Collagen forms strong, rope‑like structures that gives tissues both strength and flexibility.

Collagen and aging

As we age, our body’s collagen production naturally declines—by age 80, researchers estimate it may drop by about 75%—which can contribute to changes in skin integrity and joint mobility. Evidence from human clinical studies and a 2023 Nutrients systematic review suggests orally consumed hydrolyzed collagen peptides (smaller, more readily absorbed peptides) may help support the body’s collagen synthesis.

Food, Supplements, or Both?

Collagen is found in foods like bone broth and connective tissue from meat and fish. However, collagen from food isn’t always easy to absorb. That’s where hydrolyzed collagen peptides come in. Hydrolyzed collagen peptides have been broken down into smaller units, making them easier for the body to absorb and use. They’re also tasteless, odorless, and dissolve easily in hot or cold liquids.

How Do You Choose a Collagen You Can Trust?

Not all collagen products are created equal. In Canada, collagen supplements must follow Health Canada regulations, meaning any health claim on the label must be truthful and supported by evidence. Be wary of products promising exaggerated or “too‑good‑to‑be‑true” results. Collagen isn’t a miracle cure, and it can’t reverse aging—but it can be a supportive part of a balanced lifestyle.

Read labels carefully. Products marketed as “plant‑based” or “vegan collagen” don’t actually contain collagen peptides. Instead, they usually provide nutrients that support your body’s own collagen production, like vitamin C and amino acids.

Does Collagen Help My Skin?

Your body needs supportive nutrients to help maintain healthy skin structure. This is where Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Peptides stand out. In addition to hydrolyzed collagen peptides, the Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Peptides formula includes vitamin C, biotin, and hyaluronic acid – ingredients with science‑backed roles in skin health.

• Vitamin C is a critical co‑factor in collagen synthesis, meaning your body needs it to effectively produce its own collagen.
• Biotin supports the maintenance of healthy hair and nails.
• Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the skin and plays a role in hydration and skin comfort.

How can I incorporate collagen into my daily routine?

Adding collagen into your routine is easier than you think! Meet the Classic Collagen Latte — a creamy twist on your favorite latte that adds a boost of collagen to your routine. Here’s how to make your own!

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp instant coffee
• 1/2 tbsp white sugar
• 4 tbsp hot water
• 1 cup milk of choice
• 1 scoop (10 g) Vital Proteins Bovine Collagen Peptides

Method:

1. Scoop instant coffee into a mug, along with sugar and hot water
2. Warm your milk of choice and add Vital Proteins Bovine Collagen Peptides and froth well (the frothier, the better!)
3. Pour the warm collagen milk mixture into your coffee and enjoy!

References:
1. Collagen study advances for photoaging skin. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2024 Jan;40(1):e12931.
2. Absorption of food-derived peptides: mechanisms, influencing factors, and enhancement strategies. Food Res Intern. 2024 Dec;197(1):115190.
3. Collagen supplementation in skin and orthopedic diseases: A review of the literature. Heliyon. 2023 Mar 28;9(4):e14961
4. Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2023 Apr 26;15(9):2080
5. Decreased collagen production in chronologically aged skin: roles of age-dependent alteration in fibroblast function and defective mechanical stimulation. Am J Pathol. 2006 Jun;168(6):1861–8
6. Collagen structure and stability. Annu Rev Biochem. 2009;78:929–58
7. Effect of vitamin C and its derivatives on collagen synthesis and cross-linking by normal human fibroblasts. Int J Cosmet Sci. 1998 Jun;20(3):151–8

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