Hydrolysed Collagen vs. Regular Collagen: Which is Best for Your Needs?

Many people notice their skin sagging or joints aching as they get older. Collagen production drops with age, making wrinkles and joint pain more likely. This blog will explain the difference between hydrolysed collagen and regular collagen supplements, helping you choose what fits best for your needs.

Curious which type is right for you? Read on to learn more.

Key Takeaways

• Hydrolysed collagen is made smaller for better absorption, useful for skin and joints.
• Regular collagen comes from foods like bone broth and keeps its natural form.
• Taking hydrolysed collagen can help with quick muscle recovery and skin elasticity.
• People pick regular collagen for fewer processing steps and cost savings.
• Check the source of collagen supplements for quality and dietary needs.

Understanding Collagen Types

Collagen is the glue that holds your body together, from bones to skin cells. It comes in many forms—think type I for strong tendons and type II for flexible cartilage—which each play a different part inside you.

What is Regular Collagen?

Regular collagen, called native collagen, keeps its big structure. The molecules are hefty, about 30,000 daltons each. This type comes right from animal connective tissues like cows and pigs or fish skin.

You get it in foods such as bone broth and jellies.

Type I is the most common form and makes up nearly 90% of what holds your skin, bones, tendons and ligaments together. Type II supports your joints with elastic cartilage found in poultry or fish parts.

Type III runs through muscles, arteries and organs too. Each strand has a triple helix shape made from proline, glycine and hydroxyproline—three key amino acids that help keep tissues strong.

Nature's glue: regular collagen binds our bodies together—it really is everywhere!

What is Hydrolysed Collagen?

While regular collagen comes from animal parts like bone broth or jelly, hydrolysed collagen takes things a step further through processing. Factories use water to split the large protein chains into much smaller pieces called peptides.

These tiny chains are easier for your digestive system to handle and absorb.

Scientists found that hydrolysed collagen, sometimes labelled as “collagen peptides” or “collagen hydrolysate,” weighs about 10,000 daltons per chain. Nano-hydrolysed options drop below 2,000 daltons.

Only particles under 4,000 daltons can pass through stomach pores well enough for real benefits like skin elasticity and joint support. You get this refined form in collagen powder or liquid supplements; some shots claim your body absorbs them in only fifteen minutes! Hydrolysed forms often mix types of collagen such as type I and type III for connective tissue help and more flexibility after high-intensity exercise or sports injury.

Many UK supplement brands recommend taking five to ten grams daily for best results with muscle recovery, skin hydration, or supporting bones after menopause.

The Science Behind Hydrolysed Collagen: Why It's a Game-Changer for Supplementation

Hydrolysed collagen works fast because its protein chains are broken into small pieces called peptides. Collagen in its natural state is huge, around 30,000 daltons in weight. Regular stomach pores only let in particles under 4,000 daltons.

Hydrolysis, which uses water to break down big proteins, makes hydrolysed collagen much smaller—around 10,000 daltons for standard types and less than 2,000 for nano-hydrolysed forms.

This means your body can soak it up more quickly and easily than regular collagen.

Doctors use hydrolysed collagen in over 3,000 hospitals to help people heal from sports injuries like a torn tendon or joint pain. Frog Fuel is one brand sold across the UK and even further afield; it claims you can absorb nano-collagen within just fifteen minutes after drinking it.

A normal serving sits at about five to ten grams per day for good results with skin elasticity or muscle recovery after high-intensity exercise. Hydrolysed collagen supports faster healing and better skin hydration without having to gnaw on bone broth every morning!

Key Differences Between Hydrolysed and Regular Collagen

Not all collagen supplements work in the same way. The process they go through changes how your body uses them, which can make a big difference to things like joint pain or skin hydration.

Molecular structure and absorption

Regular collagen is a whopper, weighing in at about 30,000 daltons. Its triple helix ribbons twist together like tightly wound ropes. This makes the molecules too bulky for your gut to soak up.

Stomach pores only let in tiny guests; anything larger than 4,000 daltons gets left out in the cold.

Hydrolysed collagen skips this hurdle by breaking down into short bits called peptides. These smaller chunks are usually around 10,000 daltons or even less if nano-hydrolysed, which drops below 2,000 daltons.

Hydrolysed collagen can slide through stomach pores much faster and easier—sometimes within fifteen minutes after you drink it as a collagen powder or tablet. This speedy absorption gives your body quick access to those precious amino acids that help with skin hydration and joint health.

Up next: how these different collagens go from raw ingredient to finished product on shop shelves.

Processing methods

Collagen supplements come from different processing steps. Raw animal tissues, like skin and bones, supply the collagen. To make hydrolysed collagen, factories use water and special enzymes to break big protein molecules into tiny parts called peptides.

This step is known as hydrolysis. It makes it easier for your body to absorb these short chains of amino acids. Nano-hydrolysed collagen goes even further by shrinking the pieces below 2,000 daltons in size—a number so small you could fit millions on a pinhead.

Gelatine forms through partial hydrolysis and often appears in foods or capsules. Think jelly cubes or some chewable sweets rather than supplements with high bioavailability claims.

Powders and liquids usually offer more concentrated doses of collagen compared to gummies and bars packed with added sugar or fillers. Tablets sometimes carry type I or type III bovine or marine sources for joint pain relief or muscle recovery after high-intensity exercise.

“Not all powders are created equal—some pack far more punch per spoonful.”

Processing shapes how well your body can use these dietary supplements. Now we see why this matters for absorption and effectiveness.

Bioavailability and effectiveness

Hydrolysed collagen breaks down into tiny pieces called peptides. These are easier for the body to soak up, unlike regular collagen's big chains. Some small trials hint that these peptides may help skin hydration and boost elasticity if taken daily.

European Food Safety Authority has not greenlit health claims yet, as most research is shaky or paid for by supplement makers.

Regular collagen from sources like bone broth gets chopped into amino acids during digestion. The body then decides how to use them. It does not send them straight to your creaky knees or wrinkly forehead.

Clinical studies show oral collagen can ease joint pain in osteoarthritis short term. Study sizes are small and methods weak. Wasting money is a bigger worry than any risk from either form of collagen supplements right now.

Benefits of Hydrolysed Collagen

Hydrolysed collagen gets broken down into tiny parts. Your body takes it in quickly and uses the amino acids to support flexible joints, plump skin or faster muscle repair. Keep reading to see how this simple swap might make you feel younger than your last school reunion.

Improved absorption and digestion

Collagen peptides in hydrolysed collagen are tiny, often less than 4,000 daltons. Some nano-hydrolysed types go even smaller, under 2,000 daltons. These slip through the digestive tract with ease and speed.

Frog Fuel offers protein shots that can start to absorb in just 15 minutes. Your body gets vital amino acids quickly this way.

Regular collagen from sources like bone broth and capsules takes longer for the gut to break down. The quicker uptake of hydrolysed forms means you see benefits sooner for joint pain or skin elasticity.

Powders, liquids and small tablets mix well into food or drinks without taste issues. They are easier on sensitive stomachs than some regular options.

I started mixing a scoop of hydrolysed marine collagen powder in my morning coffee, says Cathy from Birmingham, and my digestion thanks me every day.

Enhanced joint and bone health

With faster digestion, hydrolysed collagen can help your joints and bones in ways that regular supplements struggle to match. Type II collagen supports elastic cartilage, which cushions the ends of your bones.

Hydrolysed options also offer key amino acids like glycine and proline for tissue repair. More than 3,000 medical centres use it to help people recover from sports injuries; that is no small feat.

Some studies show short-term pain relief in knee osteoarthritis with hydrolysed collagen. Most studies have small groups and mixed-quality data. Many find their joint stiffness eases after adding a scoop of collagen powder or tablets each day, especially during high-intensity exercise or as part of dietary supplements aimed at muscle recovery.

It may even reduce swelling around sore joints or knees battered by years on the football pitch or gardening weekends gone wild! Studies on chronic ailments like rheumatoid arthritis and long-term bone strength support continue.

People with kidney or liver issues should talk to a healthcare professional before starting any protein-heavy routine. It is best to play safe with new sources of essential nutrients in your daily regimen.

Skin elasticity and anti-ageing benefits

Hydrolysed collagen supplements have become a favourite in the supplement industry. Some systematic reviews and meta-analyses show that these collagen peptides may boost skin hydration and elasticity, especially for people aged 35 and over.

After age 60, or after menopause for women, natural collagen production drops fast. This change often leads to fine lines and saggy skin.

Industry-funded clinical trials suggest daily use of hydrolysed collagen can help your skin look firmer; results tend to be modest. A few studies blend vitamin c with marine or bovine collagen powders to support better outcomes for wrinkles and skin structure.

Your body uses absorbed amino acids from these protein supplements where needed. You cannot send them directly to your face or hands. Real people notice smoother-looking skin after regular use, but experts like those at Cleveland Clinic urge more controlled trials before big claims are made.

Bone broth also provides type I and III collagens found in connective tissue but absorbs much slower than hydrolysed options.

Now we explore how these supplements help joints feel stronger day-to-day.

Muscle recovery and athletic performance

Collagen supplements feed your body the building blocks for muscle repair. After high-intensity exercise, amino acids from collagen powder or tablets support protein synthesis in the muscles.

Robert Erskine's research shows that young men made more collagen after taking 30g hydrolysed collagen with vitamin c before working out. This is a bigger serving than most people use daily.

Medical staff use Frog Fuel, a nano-collagen formula, to help sports injuries heal faster and ease joint pain for athletes.

Stronger protein production means better lean muscle-building and less time spent aching on the sofa after tough exercises. Collagen peptides may speed up recovery from strains or tears in joints and connective tissue. This is handy for those who enjoy regular workouts or even long walks on Sundays.

For women athletes, studies now explore if these benefits also lower injury risk during training.

Taking hydrolysed collagen with vitamin c before exercise helped men produce more new collagen, says researcher Robert Erskine.

Benefits of Regular Collagen

Regular collagen gives your body a steady boost of protein, straight from sources like bone broth or connective tissue. It is simple to stir into favourite soups or add alongside leafy greens and sprouts for basic nutritional support—worth exploring further if you want natural solutions.

Natural form and less processing

Collagen in its natural form keeps the triple helix structure. It stays close to how you would find it in animal connective tissue like cows, pigs, chickens, or fish. This makes regular collagen a familiar choice for anyone who prefers food-based supplements over powders and tablets.

You will spot this type of protein in bone broth or gelatine desserts—no processing steps or chemical breakdowns are involved.

There are no added sugars or fillers here; just basic amino acids that help support your body's connective tissue. Some people pick this less processed option because they seek simple nutrition from whole foods.

The gentle approach might also appeal if you want to avoid complicated supplement blends containing marine collagen peptides or synthetic additives. It all comes down to taste and lifestyle preferences before considering benefits like price and nutritional support.

Potential cost advantages

Regular collagen, like that found in bone broth or gelatine, often costs less than hydrolysed collagen supplements. Fewer processing steps mean lower production costs for items like bone broth or homemade soups rich in collagen.

Many people enjoy making their own broths at home from beef bones or chicken carcasses. This adds up to savings over time and fits well into a balanced diet.

Supplements such as tablets and gummies might look cheaper on the shelf but may contain less active protein per serving compared with food-based sources. You get more value using natural foods instead of buying powders or capsules targeted at skin elasticity.

Basic nutritional support

Meats, turkey, fish, pork skin, and egg whites all provide you with regular collagen. These foods help your body obtain amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Your skin, bones, and joints depend on these.

Eating these animal products increases total protein intake and maintains strong connective tissue.

Chicken stew, beef stew, or bone broth at dinner can help keep tissue firm, while egg whites at breakfast support normal muscle repair. No special powders or capsules are required; these foods offer basic nutritional support that helps maintain strong bones and skin.

How to Choose the Right Collagen for Your Needs

Choosing your ideal collagen? Think about what you want for your joints, skin, or muscles—then peek at the label and source before picking between a marine powder or bovine capsules. Read the guide for choices and tips to match them with your life.

Identify your health goals

Start by thinking about what you want from collagen supplements. Are you hoping for smoother skin, less joint pain, or better muscle recovery after high-intensity exercise? Some people take hydrolysed collagen to boost skin elasticity and help with anti-ageing.

Others look for relief from rheumatoid arthritis, aiming to ease joint pain over two or three months. If your goal is simple nutrition support, regular collagen might fit the bill without much fuss.

Tim Goodwin sees clients who use different forms based on their needs—some want to speed up wound healing or improve bone strength; others hope to see stronger hair and nails. The changes may take weeks before becoming clear, and many give it at least a month before deciding if it is worth it.

Your health goals will steer your choices, whether that means picking marine collagen capsules for easy swallowing or using bovine powders in smoothies for daily amino acids and vitamin c support. Each option has its place, depending on what matters most to you—skin hydration, connective tissue repair, scar tissues fading slowly, or simply feeling more active as years roll by.

Consider dietary preferences

Vegans and vegetarians hit a wall with collagen supplements. Collagen exists only in animal connective tissue. Vegan collagen found on shelves does not contain actual collagen; it offers nutrients like vitamin c, glycine, and proline to help your body make its own. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, beans, mushrooms, red meat, and peanuts support natural collagen production.

Fish lovers can try marine collagen supplements; these use fish skin or scales instead of beef or pork sources. People avoiding bovine or porcine products due to beliefs may find marine options more suitable.

Those with dairy allergies need to read labels closely as some powders have added ingredients from milk. Dietary restrictions push many people in the UK toward specific formulations and may affect the choice between hydrolysed collagen and regular collagen for better absorption or ease of digestion.

Evaluate supplement quality and source

Source matters for collagen supplements. Some bovine collagen comes from cattle in Brazil, a practice linked to deforestation and environmental harm. Marine collagen, often made from fish skin or scales, has less impact but can carry risks of heavy metals if not tested. Read the labels before buying. Pick powders or liquids over tablets; aim for 5 to 10 grams per serving for better absorption and benefit. Watch out for added sugars, fillers, and strange ingredients that are hard to pronounce. The US FDA does not regulate these like medicine—manufacturers do not always have to prove safety or effects before selling their collagen powder or capsules. Industry-funded studies sometimes affect objectivity; take big claims with caution unless backed by independent science. Check that companies test for transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) risk—especially with bovine sources—and meet EFSA guidelines in Europe.

Potential Risks and Considerations

• Some collagen supplements may cause digestive upset in sensitive individuals.
• People with kidney or liver issues must consult a doctor before using collagen supplements.
• Research on the long-term effects of collagen tablets is limited.
• Always follow the dosage instructions on dietary supplements.

Conclusion

Choosing the right collagen is as personal as picking tea brands. Hydrolysed collagen is a top pick for easy absorption and quick results, while regular collagen keeps things close to nature.

Think about your health goals and what feels right for your routine. Both forms help with skin elasticity, joint pain, and more if taken regularly. In the end, listen to your body and try small amounts before committing.

For a deeper understanding of why hydrolysed collagen is revolutionising supplementation, visit The Science Behind Hydrolysed Collagen: Why It's a Game-Changer for Supplementation.

FAQs

1. What's the difference between hydrolysed collagen and regular collagen?

Hydrolysed collagen, also known as collagen peptides, goes through a process that breaks it down into smaller molecules, making it easier for your body to absorb. Regular or 'native' collagen doesn't undergo this process.

2. How can I boost my body's natural production of collagen?

A well-balanced diet rich in vitamin c, essential minerals and amino acids can promote natural collagen production. Citrus fruits, leafy greens and other veggies are all good choices.

3. Can taking hydrolysed or regular collagen supplements help with joint pain?

Yes indeed! Both types of supplement have been shown to aid in relieving joint pain associated with high-intensity exercise and conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Are there any risks involved with taking these supplements?

As far as we know, they are generally safe for most people - although anyone with an autoimmune disease should chat with their doctor first to be on the safe side.

5. Which type of supplement is best for skin health: hydrolysed or regular?

Hydrolysed collagen has been linked to improved skin elasticity and hydration due to its higher absorption rate compared to regular collagen.

6. What are some sources of dietary collagens?

Collagen-rich foods include bone broth and certain types of fish (marine) while bovine (cow) and porcine (pig) collagens are often used in supplements such as tablets, capsules or powders.

About Lean Greens: Lean Greens was founded in 2012 by Tim and Sam Goodwin. The company began with a simple mission to help busy people eat more vegetables easily. It has grown from that initial idea to become a trusted nutrition brand across the UK. Lean Greens creates supplements that support healthy habits. Their first product was Super Greens powder, which set the standard for an easy, tasty greens drink. They have since introduced Drift Off, Amber Boost, and Collagen Greens. Each product meets real-life needs with quick usage and great taste. Operating from the UK, Lean Greens has sent out over three hundred thousand orders. The company has helped many individuals maintain daily health routines.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personal advice. Disclosure: This content may contain affiliate links and sponsorships.