Getting more collagen protein in your diet can help slow down the natural aging process, improve skin health and reduce joint pain and stiffness. Collagen is also a good source of amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. It’s important to note that when choosing a fish collagen product, you should always go with wild caught fish over farm raised. Farm raised fish are often treated with antibiotics and pesticides.
Fish collagen, also known as marine collagen, is a Type I collagen that comes from the scales, skin and bones of fresh and saltwater fish, such as cod, salmon, pangasius and tilapia. It’s a popular choice because it offers the best absorption and bioavailability of all animal-based collagens.
It has a smaller particle size than bovine and porcine collagens, making it the easiest for your body to absorb and process. This allows it to get to work quickly and begin providing antioxidant support.
In addition, this type of fish collagen contains more glycine and proline than other sources of protein. These amino acids have a special sequence that makes up the structure of collagen’s triple helix and are important for keeping it strong and stable.
Adding fish collagen to your diet is easy, as it can be found as a powder that you mix into liquids like smoothies, coffee or tea, or in a pill form. Some brands even have a variety of delicious flavors that make it easy to add your fish collagen first thing in the morning.