Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Bovine Hydrolyzed Collagen

Also known as: Hydrolyzed collagen, Collagen peptides, Collagen hydrolysate, Bovine Hydrolyzed Collagen

Overview

Bovine hydrolyzed collagen is a dietary supplement derived from bovine collagen, broken down into smaller peptides through hydrolysis. Sourced from animal bones and connective tissues, it's primarily used to improve skin and joint health, and potentially aid muscle mass maintenance. It contains amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, crucial for collagen synthesis. Research indicates positive effects on skin health, with studies showing improvements in elasticity and hydration. It is available in powder, capsules and tablet form. More research is needed to fully understand its effects on other health outcomes. The bioavailability of hydrolyzed collagen peptides is generally good, allowing them to be absorbed and utilized by the body effectively. Vitamin C is often recommended to enhance collagen synthesis.

Benefits

Bovine hydrolyzed collagen supplementation improves skin elasticity and hydration, reduces wrinkles, and potentially aids in wound healing. Studies have demonstrated these benefits, particularly in middle-aged and older adults, especially women. Some evidence suggests benefits for joint health, though this is less consistently supported compared to skin health benefits. A meta-analysis indicates significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with benefits observed within 90 days of supplementation. The evidence is generally positive for skin health benefits, with some studies showing significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration.

How it works

Bovine hydrolyzed collagen stimulates collagen synthesis by providing essential amino acids like glycine and proline, which are incorporated into the skin and other tissues. It interacts with the skin and connective tissue systems by promoting collagen production and potentially improving tissue strength and elasticity. The primary targets are collagen-producing cells (fibroblasts) in the skin and other tissues. The bioavailability of hydrolyzed collagen peptides is generally good, allowing them to be absorbed and utilized by the body effectively.

Side effects

Bovine hydrolyzed collagen is generally considered safe for most individuals. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include gastrointestinal upset, such as bloating or stomach discomfort. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, include possible but rare allergic reactions. Serious adverse effects are uncommon, occurring in less than 1% of users. There are no well-documented significant interactions with medications. Individuals with severe allergies to bovine products should avoid it. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of bovine hydrolyzed collagen is typically around 5 grams per day, with optimal dosage ranges between 5-10 grams per day. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 10 grams per day are less commonly studied. It is best taken on an empty stomach or with a meal to enhance absorption. It is available in powder, capsules, or tablets; powder may be more easily absorbed. Absorption may be enhanced by vitamin C, which aids in collagen synthesis. Vitamin C is often recommended to enhance collagen synthesis.

FAQs

Is bovine hydrolyzed collagen safe?

It is generally safe and well-tolerated, but individuals with bovine allergies should avoid it. Consult a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions.

When is the best time to take it?

It is best taken consistently over several weeks to observe benefits. Take on an empty stomach or with a meal to enhance absorption.

How long before I see results?

Improvements in skin health are typically observed within a few months of consistent use. Individual results may vary.

Is it a cure for skin aging?

It is not a cure-all for skin aging but can be a useful adjunct to other skincare practices. It supports skin health.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742704/ – A systematic review and meta-analysis with 1,125 participants aged 20-70 years, primarily women, found that hydrolyzed collagen supplementation improved skin hydration, elasticity, and reduced wrinkles over 90 days. The study highlights the high-quality evidence supporting skin health benefits, though it notes the limitation of limited long-term data.
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/18/5370 – This systematic review indicates promising results for wound healing and skin aging with hydrolyzed collagen supplementation. While the study includes both short and long-term studies with varied sample sizes, it emphasizes the need for more research on other health outcomes beyond dermatological applications.
https://www.cureus.com/articles/207671-exploring-the-impact-of-hydrolyzed-collagen-oral-supplementation-on-skin-rejuvenation-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis – This systematic review and meta-analysis supports the efficacy and safety of hydrolyzed collagen in improving skin health, particularly in females. The study highlights the benefits for skin rejuvenation but acknowledges limited data on other populations, suggesting a need for broader research.
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/12/2/79 – This research explores the potential of collagen peptides for various health applications. It provides insights into the mechanisms of action and bioavailability of collagen peptides, supporting their role in promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
https://jddonline.com/articles/oral-collagen-supplementation-a-systematic-review-of-dermatological-applications-S1545961619P0009X/ – This systematic review of dermatological applications of oral collagen supplementation provides an overview of the current evidence. It highlights the potential benefits of collagen supplementation for skin health and discusses the mechanisms by which collagen peptides may exert their effects.