Skip to Content Skip to Navigation Accessibility Policy Click to login to your Account
For a Limited Time, Take 15% Off On-the-Go Bulletproof Favorites Save Now
Bulletproof Bulletproof is a food and beverage company, known for Bulletproof Coffee and products that fuel your mind and body.
Menu
Shop
Shop
Coffee
Ground Whole Bean Single-Serve Pods Starter Kits Cold Brew Creamers & Mix-Ins View all
MCT Oil
Brain Octane Oil MCT Oil View all
Proteins
Collagen Protein Collagen Protein Bars Collagen Protein Plus Support View all
Food & Drink
Protein Bars Cold Brew Chocolate Bars View all
Supplements
Greens Gummy Vitamins Mood & Memory Performance & Immunity Detox & Gut Health Sleep Support View all
Other
Tech Coffee Mugs & Bottles Books View all
Shop All Products
Subscribe & Save 20% + Free Shipping over $35
Learn More
Health Upgrades
Health Upgrades
Guides
Immune Boost Sleep Hacks Brain Upgrades Weight Loss & Diet Anti-Aging View all
Supplements
Greens Gummy Vitamins Mood & Memory Performance & Immunity Detox & Gut Health Sleep Support View all
Shop All Products
Keep the Greens Coming
Subscribe and Save
Keep the Greens Coming

Save 20% + get a free shaker when you subscribe to Greens

Shop Now
Subscribe & Save 20% + Free Shipping over $35
Learn More
Recipes
Recipes
Recipes
Snacks Breakfasts Main Dishes Beverages Desserts Keto Paleo View all
Shop All Ingredients
Bulletproof Coffee Recipe
FEATURED RECIPE
BULLETPROOF COFFEE: THE OFFICIAL RECIPE
VIEW RECIPE
Beginner keto cookbook
Free eCookbook
21 Easy Recipes to Fuel Your Keto Journey
Download Now
Subscribe & Save 20% + Free Shipping over $35
Learn More
Learn
Learn
Where to Start
About Bulletproof Bulletproof for Beginners Bulletproof Coffee: The Official Recipe What makes Bulletproof Coffee Beans Different? What are MCT Oils? What is Collagen Protein? Starter Kits Newsletters & Guides
Keto Kickstart
Keto Beginners Guide Calculating Carbs Alcohol Guide Keto Foods List Dirty vs. Clean Keto Weight Loss Troubleshooting Keto Recipes
Bulletproof Blog
Diet Recipes Coffee Supplements Sleep Gut Health Lifestyle View all
Books
Game Changers The Bulletproof Diet Bulletproof The Cookbook View all
Shop All Products
Subscribe & Save 20% + Free Shipping over $35
Learn More
Subscribe & Save 20%
Deals
Deals Subscribe & Save 20% expand/collapse Store Locator Account Cart
Deals Subscribe & Save 20% expand/collapse Account Cart
Search

Share

product
https://www.bulletproof.com/supplements/macronutrients/what-is-collagen-guide/ article-33254 What Is Collagen Protein? Your Complete Guide to Collagen Peptides https://www.bulletproof.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/what-is-collagen-guide-blog-header-300x160.jpg 1 USD InStock Macronutrients Collagen Protein BEV01-00004 BEV01-00011 BEV01-00012 BEV01-00013 BEV01-00018 BEV01-00019 BEV01-00020 KIT12-00071 KIT12-00074 KIT12-00080 KIT12-00104 KIT12-00105 KIT12-00106 KIT12-00107 NUT05-00004 NUT05-00005 NUT05-00008 NUT05-00011 NUT05-00012 NUT05-00013 NUT05-00014 NUT05-00015 NUT05-00026 NUT05-00028 NUT05-00029 NUT05-00033 NUT05-00034 NUT05-00036 NUT05-00038 NUT05-00046 NUT05-00050 NUT05-00055 NUT05-00060 NUT05-00110 NUT05-00115 NUT05-00120 Proteins BEV01-00004 BEV01-00011 BEV01-00012 BEV01-00013 BEV01-00018 BEV01-00019 BEV01-00020 KIT12-00071 KIT12-00074 KIT12-00080 KIT12-00104 KIT12-00105 KIT12-00106 KIT12-00107 NUT05-00004 NUT05-00005 NUT05-00008 NUT05-00011 NUT05-00012 NUT05-00013 NUT05-00014 NUT05-00015 NUT05-00026 NUT05-00028 NUT05-00029 NUT05-00033 NUT05-00034 NUT05-00036 NUT05-00038 NUT05-00046 NUT05-00050 NUT05-00055 NUT05-00060 NUT05-00110 NUT05-00115 NUT05-00120 article
Home / Supplements / Macronutrients
|December 21, 2021

What Is Collagen Protein? Your Complete Guide to Collagen Peptides

By Alison Moodie
Reviewed by Emily Gonzalez, ND for Scientific Accuracy

What Is Collagen Protein? Your Complete Guide to Collagen Peptides

  • Collagen is a structural protein. It contains amino acid building blocks for healthy skin, bones, joints and connective tissues.
  • Your body naturally makes collagen protein, but production slows down as you age…starting in your 20s.
  • Good news: You can get more collagen in your diet from foods and supplements. Our pick? Bulletproof Collagen Protein powder is grass-fed collagen peptides, and it mixes easily in your favorite drinks.

It seems as if everyone is talking about the benefits of collagen protein: healthy skin, flexible joints and strong bones. Yes, please! But what is collagen made of, and what is it used for? You’ve come to the right place.

Read on to get the lowdown on this hardworking protein, all the ways that collagen powder benefits your body and how to get more of it in your life. Your body will thank you.

Table of Contents

  • What is collagen protein?
  • Benefits of collagen
  • How to get more collagen in your diet
  • Collagen protein FAQ

What is collagen protein?

Collagen molecules concept

Think of collagen as the glue that holds your body together. The most abundant protein in the body, collagen makes up more than one-third of your total protein. It acts as a building block for healthy bones, teeth, muscles, skin, joints and connective tissues.[1]

What is collagen made of, specifically? It’s rich in glycine, proline and hydroxyproline—the amino acids that help your body make new collagen.

What about collagen peptides?

A hand scooping Bulletproof Unflavored Collagen Protein from a tub next to fresh fruit

You’ve probably encountered the terms “collagen peptides,” “hydrolyzed collagen,” “collagen hydrolysate” and “collagen powder.” These terms are different names for the same thing: collagen protein powder.

Specifically, the term “collagen peptides” refers to collagen that has undergone a process called hydrolysis. This process breaks down the amino acids in collagen into smaller molecules, making it easier for your body to absorb. 

Related: How Do Collagen Supplements Work?

Types of collagen

Woman stretching

At least 28 different types of collagen exist, but types I, II and III form the bulk of the collagen in your body (between 80-90%).[2] [3] [4]

Types I and III provide structure to the skin, muscles and ligaments, while type II is found in cartilage and the eye.[5]

Bulletproof’s line of collagen protein powders are made of predominantly type I collagen and a small amount of type III collagen that comes from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows without added hormones.

Benefits of collagen

Okay, now you know what collagen is—but what is collagen used for? The amino acids in this protein play a role in your entire body, from your skin and nails to your bones and joints. Keep reading to find out why people are adding collagen to their smoothies and coffee.

Supports hydrated skin and skin elasticity

Smiling woman with hands on her face

Collagen makes up the bulk of your skin, but your body makes less collagen as you get older…starting in your 20s.[6] The result? Sagging skin and fine lines.

Studies show that taking collagen supplements can support plump skin and may reduce wrinkles.[7] [8]

Strengthens bones and joints

Working out with stronger joints

Collagen protein strengthens your joints, making them more resilient. Research shows that taking hydrolyzed collagen reduces joint pain after exercise and boosts the density of your cartilage, making joints more flexible.

A 2008 study found that athletes who took hydrolyzed collagen for six months saw an improvement in joint pain after exercise.[9] Other studies have shown that collagen helps comfort sore back and knees.[10] [11] New evidence suggests that collagen even supports strong bones.[12]

How to get more collagen in your diet

So, you know what collagen does and why it matters. Next, make sure you’re getting enough of it in your diet. Here are a few ways to eat more collagen, from bone broth to collagen supplements.

More Supplements From Bulletproof

  • Can I Take Too Much Collagen in One Day?
  • What Are Greens? 6 Things to Look for in a Greens Powder Supplement
  • What Are Brain Supplements? What to Know About Nootropics
  • The Bulletproof Guide to Supplements

Eat more collagen-rich foods

Bowl of collagen-rich soup

Good dietary sources of collagen include:

  • Bone broth (get our recipe for homemade collagen bone broth)
  • Pork, salmon and chicken skins
  • Non-muscle meats like tendon, tripe, oxtail and knuckle
  • Egg yolk and eggshell membranes

Unless you eat these foods regularly, you’re probably not getting enough collagen molecules in your diet—which means you’re missing out on those health benefits. That’s where collagen dietary supplements come in handy.

Take a collagen peptide supplement

Scooping hydrolyzed collagen into glass

Collagen supplements run the gamut from lotion and topical creams to oral collagen supplements. In our view, here is the easiest, most reliable way to make sure you’re getting meaningful amounts of bioavailable collagen: collagen protein powder.

What is collagen powder? Also known as collagen peptides, this supplement makes it easy to get more collagen in your diet. Just mix one or two scoops of collagen powder into your smoothie, Bulletproof Coffee, soup or water.

Choose a powder that comes from grass-fed, pasture-raised, hormone-free cows. We made it easy: Bulletproof Collagen Protein comes from grass-fed cows and is available in Unflavored, Vanilla and Chocolate flavors.

Or you can experience completely new energy with new Bulletproof Energy Collagen Protein. It’s made with all nine essential amino acids, MCT oil and a Custom Energy Blend of ginseng, magnesium and cordyceps mushroom, plus 20 grams of collagen protein.

Want a dose of collagen in a delicious, satisfying snack? Try Bulletproof Collagen Protein Bars, made with 11 grams of protein per bar and 2 grams of sugar.

Take your vitamin C

Broccoli florets in a pot

You need vitamin C to support collagen synthesis, the process in which the human body makes collagen protein.[13]

“Skin fibroblasts have an absolute dependence on vitamin C for the synthesis of collagen, and for the regulation of the collagen/elastin balance in the dermis,” wrote researchers in a 2017 literature review.

There’s an easy way to get more vitamin C in your diet to help produce collagen: Eat lightly cooked vegetables like brussels sprouts, spinach and broccoli, as well as fresh berries.

You can also up your vitamin C supplementation to support collagen production (and get bonus vitamin C benefits). For adults, the recommended daily amount is 65 to 90 mg a day, and the upper limit is 2,000 mg a day.[14]

Collagen protein FAQ

Spoon of hydrolyzed collagen

What’s the difference between collagen and gelatin?

Gelatin and collagen offer similar benefits because they’re essentially the same thing in different forms.

The difference is that gelatin forms a jiggly gel when it’s dissolved in hot liquid and cooled. Bulletproof Collagen Protein is hydrolyzed a step further so it mixes easily into hot or cold liquids without gelling when it cools.

Use Bulletproof Collagelatin to make puddings, jellies and gummies, or to thicken soups and sauces.

What supplements can I add to my collagen for skin health?

To benefit your skin even more, combine collagen with other skin-friendly ingredients like antioxidant vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. You’ll get all the benefits of collagen, plus support for healthy, hydrated skin as a side effect.

What does “hydrolyzed collagen” mean?

“Hydrolysis” sounds funky, but it just means breaking a hydrogen bond with water. The easiest way to think about this process is to think about all the steps involved with digestion.

You break down your food into smaller parts by chewing it, and then it gets broken down into even smaller particles in your stomach so your body can use all the nutrients. Like digestion, hydrolysis converts collagen into smaller molecules. These molecules are easier to absorb into your body.

How do I pick the best collagen protein supplement?

You’ll find collagen protein powder in tons of different products, like powders and protein bars. But before you start chowing down on collagen beauty elixirs and collagen muffins, ask yourself these questions:

  • Does the collagen come from pasture-raised animals? When you buy products made from grass-fed animals, you support happy cows that spent most of their lives in pasture.
  • Does it have any fillers? Look at the label to make sure it doesn’t include any unnecessary additives. The ingredients list on unflavored collagen peptides should list hydrolyzed collagen powder—not artificial junk.

Collagen is one of those rare supplements that actually deserves its healthy aging title. So sip on some bone broth or mix collagen protein powder into your smoothie—it’s an easy upgrade to your daily routine.

Read next: 14 Collagen Peptide Recipes to Make Your Skin Glow

Join the Bulletproof Revolution

Sign up for early access to sales, product launches, the latest Bulletproof news and more!

This article has been updated with new content.

Statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Products sold on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information provided by this website or this company is not a substitute for direct, individual medical treatment or advice. It is the responsibility of you and your healthcare providers to make all decisions regarding your health. Bulletproof recommends that you consult with your healthcare providers regarding the diagnosis and treatment of any disease or condition.

About Alison Moodie

Alison Moodie is a health reporter based in Los Angeles. She has written for numerous outlets including Newsweek, Agence France-Presse, The Daily Mail and HuffPost. For years she covered sustainable business for The Guardian. She holds a master’s degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, where she majored in TV news. When she's not working she's doting on her two kids and whipping up Bulletproof-inspired dishes in her kitchen.

References

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11704682
[2] https://cshperspectives.cshlp.org/content/3/1/a004978
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2846778/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21582/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21582/table/A6543/?rep...
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1220811
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24401291
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26362110
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18416885
[10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22500661
[11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24852756
[12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29337906
[13] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23228664
[14] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessiona...

TAGS

Collagen ProteinProteins

Related Bulletproof Supplements

Two flavors of Bulletproof Collagen Protein
Can I Take Too Much Collagen in One Day?
A scoop of Greens powder going into a glass of water
What Are Greens? 6 Things to Look for in a Greens Powder Supplement
Man working at home at table
What Are Brain Supplements? What to Know About Nootropics
An overhead shot of different Bulletproof supplements and gummy vitamins
The Bulletproof Guide to Supplements
Stay Bulletproof: Subscribe Today
SHOP
  • Coffee
  • MCT Oils
  • Proteins
  • Food & Drink
  • Supplements
  • Other
  • All Products
Learn
  • Bulletproof for Beginners
  • Recipes
  • Newsletters & Guides
  • Bulletproof Blog
  • Books
CUSTOMER CARE
  • Contact Us
  • Shipping Policy
  • Return Policy
  • Accessibility Policy
COMPANY
  • About Us
  • Press
  • Careers
  • Customer Reviews
PARTNERS
  • Store Locator
  • Wholesale
  • Ambassador Program
  • Affiliate Program
Nutrition Reimagined

We're reinventing what it means to fuel your mind and body.

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

†Statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information provided by this website or this company is not a substitute for individual medical advice. | ©Bulletproof 360, Inc. 2013–2022

  • Privacy Policy |
  • Terms |
  • Reseller Policy |