Collagen: Should You Choose Marine or Bovine Collagen?

Recap of Collagen Benefits for the Body

Like hyaluronic acid, collagen is a protein naturally present in the body, synthesized from amino acids. Through its different types (Type I, II, or III collagen), this structural protein supports connective tissues:

• Bone framework and cartilage
• Skin
• Ligaments and tendons
• Blood tissue

Certain amino acids and vitamins found in the foods we eat support the synthesis of this protein in the body. However, with age, its production decreases, leading to the appearance of wrinkles, osteoporosis, or joint problems. And food alone is no longer sufficient!

It then becomes beneficial to supplement with collagen-containing dietary supplements, whether bovine or marine. These two types of supplements share a common point: the molecular weight of the protein has been reduced for better absorption by the body through a process called hydrolysis.

Supplementing with Hydrolyzed Collagen

In our diet, collagen is a macromolecular protein that is not directly absorbable by the body. Therefore, during the manufacturing of powdered supplements, it’s necessary to extract peptides with a lower molecular weight. But what is a collagen peptide?

Collagen peptides result from the fragmentation of collagen proteins through hydrolysis. This decomposition process mimics the body’s digestion mechanism. It provides smaller proteins in supplement form, already in “pre-digested” peptide form, making them more easily absorbable by the body. Their digestion is facilitated, and consequently, their absorption by the body is also facilitated and even accelerated.

Hydrolyzed collagen is available in pure powder form for self-dosing or in capsules. It is mainly produced from animal materials.

The Different Collagens Present in Dietary Supplements

Collagen is sourced either from bovines or from fish or shrimp (marine origin).

Bovine Collagen

Extracted from the skin or bones of cows, bovine collagen is a Type I or III collagen. If it comes from the animal’s bone framework, bovine collagen is particularly beneficial for joint health. Collagen derived from the skin is more suitable for addressing skin aging issues.

Marine Collagen

Marine collagen is extracted from the scales and skin of fish. It is generally a Type I collagen but can also be Type II. It is particularly recommended for skin elasticity, as well as the health of bones, joints, and ligaments. Type I collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, accounting for about 80% compared to other collagen types.

From an ecological standpoint, marine collagen comes from a previously unexploited resource—fish skin—with a carbon footprint seven times lower than that of bovine collagen.

Which to Choose: Bovine or Marine Collagen?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Bovine Collagen

Bovine-derived collagen, being Type I and III, is particularly suitable for skin care. It’s this type of collagen that’s used for injections. However, it also supports bones and joints if it’s Type I.

Bovine collagen has the advantage of helping the body produce its own collagen (this time Type I and II) by providing amino acids like glycine and proline.

Generally, products extracted from bovines offer similar benefits to marine collagen. However, they are not considered as effective due to lower absorption by the human body.

In terms of quality/price ratio, bovine collagen is more economical, with lower prices than marine collagen.

However, the carbon footprint for producing 1 kg of bovine collagen is less favorable, and attention must be paid to the rearing conditions of the bovines and thus the quality of the collagen!

Beyond the fact that bovines may be fed antibiotics and growth hormones, there is a risk of microbiological contamination. It’s essential to verify the origin and rearing processes of the bovines used to protect one’s health from negative side effects.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Marine Collagen

Marine collagen is more easily absorbed by the body due to its smaller peptide size, offering higher bioavailability.

It’s known for being rich in hydroxyproline, an essential amino acid for its synthesis, and its high antioxidant content helps slow down skin aging.

Studies have also shown the effectiveness of marine collagen on joints, muscles, and bones.

Sourced from fish, it suits those who have adopted a meat-free diet but should be avoided by individuals allergic to fish or possibly shellfish.

It’s important to prioritize products from quality and safe practices, such as responsible aquaculture or sustainable fishing.

Although more expensive, marine collagen is a quality product with proven effectiveness.