Collagen confusion? Let’s look at the facts.

“Just the facts, ma’am.

“Have you heard that saying before? It’s from an old TV show, and it pops into my mind as I navigate the world of health and wellness influencers. 

Let’s be honest—collagen is everywhere these days, and it can get confusing fast. Social media has turned it into a buzzword, but all the different claims and options can make it feel like a mystery. If you’re scratching your head, you’re not alone. I get questions from my midlife clients on collagen all of the time.

So today, I’m here with “just the facts, ma’am” to answer the most common collagen questions. 

So today, I’m here with “just the facts, ma’am” to answer the most common collagen questions. 

Let’s get clear on what’s worth your attention in midlife!

What is collagen? 

Collagen is a protein naturally found in your body. While we produce it ourselves, collagen levels gradually decline with age, leading to more joint discomfort, gut issues, inflammation, and accelerated skin aging. The typical “signs of aging” we first experience have a connection to declining collagen!

Why do you need it? 

Collagen is the “glue” that keeps you feeling strong and supported—it’s essential for healthy joints, skin, hair, bones, and gut. Here’s how adding collagen can make a difference:

• Supports joint health, reducing that “snap, crackle, pop” as you age
• Strengthens immunity, helping you get sick less often and recover faster
• Supports skin aging by reducing wrinkles, combating thin and brittle skin,  and giving skin a more youthful appearance overall.
• Promotes gut health for better nutrient absorption from your food
• Boosts bone density, lowering osteoporosis risk
• Reduces inflammation, so you feel less achy and puffy and instead function at your best

Bottom line – adding collagen to your supplement routine is a key way to support your body as you move through midlife! 🔑

What are all the types of collagen about? Does it matter?

Collagen comes in various types from sources like bovine, marine, and chicken, each with unique benefits. Type I supports skin, hair, and bones; type II targets joints and cartilage; and type III aids skin elasticity and gut health. Rather than worrying about specific ratios, look for a supplement that includes a mix of these types. Type I and III are common in supplements.

What are all the types of collagen about? Does it matter?

Collagen comes in various types from sources like bovine, marine, and chicken, each with unique benefits. Type I supports skin, hair, and bones; type II targets joints and cartilage; and type III aids skin elasticity and gut health. Rather than worrying about specific ratios, look for a supplement that includes a mix of these types. Type I and III are common in supplements.

Should you count collagen towards your protein goals? 

The main benefit of reaching for a protein goal is to protect your muscle as much as possible. Collagen is low in the essential amino acids (like leucine) necessary to trigger muscle protein synthesis. 

So, while you should definitely take collagen for its host of other benefits, don’t count it toward your daily protein goals. Instead, eat food sources of protein or use a complete protein powder for building lean muscle mass.

How can you get more collagen? 

My favorite collagen-boosting brew is bone broth. Yum!

Animal proteins also naturally pack collagen in their tissues (and are complete proteins for muscle growth).If you’re short on time, you can also grab a collagen supplement (10-15g per day is plenty) which is convenient and easy to add to smoothies, soups, your coffee or tea, and even energy bites and baked goods. 

Here’s the link to my favorite – use code Chris18 to get 18% off your order!

I hope this was helpful and clarified some of the collagen confusion. The benefits of collagen are awesome as we age. It is one of the supplements that I highly recommend for midlife woman! 

If you have more questions on collagen, send them my way! Send me a DM on Instagram @functionalhealthcoachchris2.0

Rooting for you,
Coach Chris