Aging Well with Collagen: What It Does and How to Supplement Safely

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human body, making up connective tissues including skin, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and even the lining of the gut. Think of collagen as the body’s “scaffolding”—it provides strength, elasticity, and resilience to tissues that undergo daily wear and tear.¹

As we age, natural collagen production declines by roughly 1% per year after early adulthood, leading to visible signs of aging (wrinkles, sagging), reduced joint comfort, slower recovery, and changes in hair, nail, and gut health.¹˒² Diet, stress, sun exposure, smoking, and chronic inflammation can accelerate this decline.

Collagen supplementation can help slow natural collagen loss while supporting your body from within.

Who Might Consider Taking Collagen?

Although anyone can benefit from collagen-rich foods, supplementation may be particularly helpful for:

• Adults over 25 noticing early signs of aging
• Active individuals or athletes wanting better joint support and recovery
• Individuals with low protein intake who struggle to meet amino acid needs
• Postmenopausal women who experience accelerated collagen loss

Types of Collagen:

1. Bovine comes from cattle and typically contains type I and III collagen, promoting healthy skin and joints.³
2. Marine comes from fish and is composed predominantly of type I collagen, but also contains type II collagen.⁴
3. Chicken collagen is primarily made of type II collagen and has been shown to support healthy joints.⁵
4. Vegan collagen isn’t actual collagen—since collagen comes from animals—but rather plant-based supplements that provide the nutrients your body needs to produce its own collagen, including vitamins such as C, A, and E.

Choosing the Right Collagen Supplement

Not all collagens are created equal. Consider the following:

1. Type of collagen: Select a collagen that is right for you based on your dietary needs.

1. Bioavailability: Evidence suggests that hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are small, are absorbed more efficiently.¹
2. Testing & Purity: Choose brands that use third-party testing for heavy metals, contaminants, and quality control.
3. Sustainability: Choose brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable sourcing.

What Makes Genuine Health Collagen Unique?

Feel your best with Genuine Health’s clean collagen. Made with 10 g of pure hydrolyzed bovine or marine collagen peptides for easy absorption. Experience healthier joints while supporting protein production and collagen formation!

clean collagen bovine is sustainably sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised, antibiotic-free, and hormone-free cattle. Rainforests are protected, and sourcing from the Amazon never occurs. Odourless and flavourless, it is perfect to add to your favourite beverage or enjoy on the go with the sweet and tart pineapple berry flavour.

clean collagen marine is sustainably sourced from wild-caught fish from deep, cold oceans. Unflavoured and unsweetened is perfect for stirring into coffee, oatmeal, smoothies, soups, and stews. It can also be shaken with water—you’ll love how easily it mixes. Or enjoy it on the go with the bright and tangy lemon lime flavour.

Gluten-free, dairy-free, no added artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners, third-party tested for purity and potency, tested for heavy metals, Certified B Corp, proudly Canadian.

With just one scoop a day, clean collagen bovine and clean collagen marine help you feel healthier from the inside out.

Recipe: Collagen Glow Berry Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop Genuine Health clean collagen (marine or bovine)
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 banana
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Enjoy as a nourishing breakfast or post-workout recovery drink.

References
1. León-López A, Morales-Peñaloza A, Martínez-Juárez VM, Vargas-Torres A, Zeugolis DI, Aguirre-Álvarez G. Hydrolyzed Collagen—Sources and Applications. Molecules. 2019;24(22):4031. doi:10.3390/molecules24224031
2. Martínez-Puig D, Costa-Larrión E, Rubio-Rodríguez N, Gálvez-Martín P. Collagen Supplementation for Joint Health: The Link between Composition and Scientific Knowledge. Nutrients. 2023;15(6):1332. doi:10.3390/nu15061332
3. Song H, Zhang S, Zhang L, Li B. Effect of Orally Administered Collagen Peptides from Bovine Bone on Skin Aging in Chronologically Aged Mice. Nutrients. 2017;9(11):1209. doi:10.3390/nu9111209
4. Silva TH, Moreira-Silva J, Marques ALP, Domingues A, Bayon Y, Reis RL. Marine Origin Collagens and Its Potential Applications. Mar Drugs. 2014;12(12):5881–5901. doi:10.3390/md12125881
5. Mohammed A, He S. A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of a Hydrolyzed Chicken Collagen Type II Supplement in Alleviating Joint Discomfort. Nutrients. 2021;13(7):2454. doi:10.3390/nu13072454

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