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Marine collagen peptides are derived mainly from the skin, scales, and bones of fish and other marine life, like seaweed and fish. This collagen type varies in form due to the various extraction methods. The most common types are:
Hydrolyzed collagen
It is the most widespread type of marine collagen and is extracted by breaking down the collagen proteins into shorter chains called peptides through the process of hydrolysis. Hydrolyzed collagen is more readily absorbed by the body and is thus a staple in dietary supplements and beauty products.
Nativ collagen
Native collagen is extracted without any processing to maintain its original form and structure. The collagen is extracted from fresh tissue at low temperatures to preserve the native molecular structure of the collagen. Native collagen is highly bioactive and is often used in medical applications.
Undenatured collagen
Undenatured collagen is a type of native collagen extracted without heat treatment. It's extracted through other denaturation methods to maintain the triple helix configuration. This type of collagen is still in its early stages of research but shows promise for joint health due to its bioactive properties.
Gelatin
Gelatin collagen is a denatured form of collagen extracted by boiling and breaking down connective tissues, skin, and bones of marine fish. It is widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics but offers a lower bioavailability than hydrolyzed collagen.
Pepsin-treated collagen
Pepsin-treated collagen is extracted from marine sources and treated with the enzyme pepsin to digest portions of the proline and glycine amino acid sequences. This process preserves peptide sequences crucial for receptor binding and is used for specialized supplements.
It is crucial to understand that marine collagen is an umbrella term that encompasses various products, each with unique characteristics and uses. Buyers should consider the product's specific type, source, and intended application.
Bioavailability and purity
The hydrolyzed form and types of marine collagen have the highest bioavailability, meaning the body can absorb and utilize them most efficiently. Peptides are often purified and fragmented into smaller sizes to enhance bioavailability. Native or undenatured collagen has lower bioavailability but retains more growth factors and is pure collagen.
Source and sustainability
As a buyer looking for eco-friendly options, the source of marine collagen is critical, as many suppliers use waste by-products from the fishing industry, which is often considered sustainable. Gelatin collagen is derived from the skins or bones of fish, typically sharks or tuna, and is not as environmentally friendly as others. Seaweed-derived collagen is the only plant-based option and is good for vegan and vegetarian customers.
Production processes
Buyers should ensure quality by asking suppliers about extraction methods and purification processes. Highly specialized methods like enzymatic hydrolysis and membrane filtration are better than more rudimentary approaches like boiling or acid extraction, which may not adequately remove contaminants. Certain manufacturing processes, like fermentation, might introduce chemical cross-linking that could affect peptide bioactivity.
Peptide profile and concentration
The bioactivity of collagen peptides relies on their amino acid composition and length. Buyers should be aware of the type of collagen type 1, 2, or 3 being extracted and the specific amino acid sequence that will target certain areas in need of rejuvenation or replenishment in the body. Buyers should also inquire about the concentration of marine collagen in final products, as the collagen concentration may vary based on the source, with fish skin offering higher concentration than fish scales and bones. Look for products with high peptide concentrations and low gelatin content for effectiveness.
The application of products
Different types of marine collagen are suited for diverse industries and applications. For example, types 1 and 3 collagen from fish skin are ideally suited for cosmetics, while type 2 collagen from fish cartilage, such as from the penaeus vannamei or whiteleg shrimp, is ideal for joint health in dietary supplements. Some products may contain bioactive peptides promoting skin, joint, and muscle health, making them adaptable for multiple uses.
Fish collagen is a versatile protein that can be incorporated into one's diet, skincare, and wellness routines. Below are some of the common ways of using fish collagen:
Oral ingestion
Fish collagen is often in powdered form, and the supplement is commonly extracted from fish skin and is usually mixed into smoothies, protein shakes, or other beverages. For skincare from within, fish collagen supplements are also found in capsule or tablet forms, which are taken daily for skin, hair, and nail benefits. Some gut health supplements also have fish collagen to promote gut lining health.
Topical application
Fish collagen is also extracted and purified and combined with other active ingredients for topical creams, gels, or lotions that are applied directly to the skin. These products help hydrate and improve skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles and fine lines.
Injectables
Collagen fillers for facial injections are often derived from fish sources. These are used in cosmetic procedures to plump up areas of the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Bone broth
A natural food source of fish collagen that can be integrated into the diet is fish bone broth. It's prepared by simmering fish bones and cartilage for an extended period to extract the natural gelatin and collagen.
Gelatin-based foods
Similar to bone broth, other gelatin-based foods like soups, stews, and jellies which have been prepared using fish bones or skin also contain fish collagen.
Cosmetic masks
Commercial facial masks and under-eye gels often contain fish collagen as an active ingredient for skin rejuvenation and hydration.
Fish collagen peptides recipes
Users can create custom recipes with fish collagen peptides by adding them to their favorite foods, such as yogurt, oatmeal, baked goods, or soups. This allows for versatile daily consumption without altering the taste or texture significantly.
Fish collagen is considered one of the purest sources of collagen because it is extracted from the skin, bones, and other connective tissues of fish, especially the noblest species like tilapia, cod, haddock, and salmon, rather than waste parts like the cloeslamata, gallbladder, blood, or innards. It has numerous benefits for health, skin, joints, and hair.
Skin health
Fish collagen improves skin elasticity and hydration, making the skin smoother and plumper. It reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by replenishing collagen levels as skin ages. Fish collagen supports skin healing and regeneration, which helps in recovery from acne marks, scars, and other skin injuries. It also slows down the skin's aging process by reducing sagging and age spots.
Joint health
Fish collagen helps alleviate joint pain and stiffness by providing the building blocks needed for cartilage repair and regeneration, reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which are prominent in the geriatric population who experience joint degeneration. Studies have shown that fish collagen supplementation may improve joint function and mobility, particularly in athletes or active individuals.
Bone and connective tissue support
Fish collagen provides essential nutrients for maintaining bone strength and density, as it is enriched with calcium and other bone minerals. It helps strengthen tendons and ligaments, reducing the risk of injuries, especially for athletes or active individuals.
Hair and nails
Fish collagen promotes stronger, thicker hair by reducing hair breakage and supporting the hair's structural integrity, making hair look healthier and shinier. It boosts nail growth and reduces brittleness, preventing nail breakage and infections.
Gut health
Fish collagen helps heal and strengthen the gut lining, which aids in recovery from gastrointestinal disorders like leaky gut syndrome. It promotes healthy digestion and may enhance the absorption of nutrients essential for overall health.
Weight management
Fish collagen is a high-protein supplement that promotes satiety, reducing hunger and helping with weight control. It supports muscle maintenance and repair, which is critical for effective weight management, especially in the reduction of fat and not weight. Increased muscle mass from collagen supplementation can boost metabolism, leading to more calories burned at rest.
Properly storing marine collagen ensures its effectiveness, quality, and safety for customers. For collagen peptides, the collagen should be stored in a cool, dry place, preferably at room temperature. Avoid excessive heat, humidity, and direct sunlight, as these could lead to denaturation and loss of potency. Collagen peptides are sensitive to oxygen, so storing them in an airtight container is crucial to prevent oxidation. Occasionally, the peptides may clump due to natural moisture absorption; the product is still good and effective even with clumping. The user should break up any clumps before use due to their potentially lower bioavailability.
For undenatured collagen powders, avoid exposure to heat, light, and humidity, as this may degrade the product and cause loss of active collagen peptides. It should also be stored in an airtight container to maintain potency. Bone broth collagen should be stored in the refrigerator for short-term storage or in the freezer for long-term storage to prevent spoilage. Upon ice box storage, it should be stored in an airtight container or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Collagen extracted from fish real that is made into collagen gels, creams, or serums is also known to be highly sensitive to environmental factors. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, preferably in its original opaque container. Exposure to air can diminish its potency, so ensure the product is securely sealed after each use.
When it comes to injectable collagen products, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for storage to maintain effectiveness. Most collagen injectables typically require refrigeration to maintain their integrity and should never be frozen or left at room temperature for extended periods. Do not attempt to use any marine collagen product that has exceeded its expiration date, as this may have dangerous consequences and will not yield desired results. Monitor the temperature and humidity level of the storage environment to maintain the efficacy of the marine collagen products.
A1. Marine collagen is predominant in types 1 and 3 and is especially good for skin, joint, hair, and gut health due to its high bioavailability.
A2. The standard recommended dosage of marine collagen is typically 3 to 5 grams per day, but this can vary based on individual needs and the specific product being used.
A3. Yes, marine collagen is rich in the essential amino acids that promote the hair shaft's structural integrity, thereby reducing hair breakage and supporting strong, healthier hair.
A4. Most marine collagen is sourced from the skin, bones, and scales of fish like tilapia, cod, haddock, and salmon. It's also extracted from other marine creatures, such as red snapper, jellyfish, and eels.
A5. Yes, both terms are used interchangeably. They both describe the collagen extracted from the skin, bones, and other tissues of fish. Fish collagen is a type of marine collagen.