Collagen is the latest “hot button” additive in the cosmetic and beauty industry. Collagen is a vital protein found within our skin and joints. It helps our skin look younger, ensures that our hair is strong, and protects our joints.
As we begin to age, though, our bodies produce less collagen. This can produce signs of aging, such as sagging skin, joint pain, and weaker hair.
Proponents of collagen claim that supplementing with collagen can reduce joint pain and improve the appearance of both your hair and skin. So, it’s easy to see why so many people are interested in it!
Is vegan collagen just another fad? Or is it the real deal? Below, I’ll give you the low-down on vegan collagen, so you can decide for yourself!
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What Makes Vegan Collagen Supplements Different?
Vegan collagen supplements are quite different from your typical non-vegan collagen supplements. The first (and most important) difference is that vegan collagen supplements don’t include any real collagen.
If you’re new to the vegan lifestyle, then this may come as a bit of a shock. You’re probably thinking, “What’s the point of trying a vegan collagen supplement if they don’t have real collagen?”
You see, the problem is that pure collagen comes from animals. Collagen is a protein that’s found in the skin and joints of most mammals, including humans. Unfortunately, this means that real collagen is a product obtained from slaughtered animals.
So, what makes vegan collagen supplements different?
Although vegan collagen supplements don’t contain pure collagen, they contain a number of healthy vitamins and minerals that encourage our body to produce more of our own collagen!
Not only is this more sustainable but it also means that your vegan collagen supplement is 100% cruelty-free.
One of the key components of any vegan collagen booster is vitamin C. Minerals such as zinc and copper also help your body to create more collagen.
Protein is another key component that your body needs to synthesize collagen. Vegan collagen boosters often include concentrated doses of plant-based protein, which work hand-in-hand with the vitamins and minerals to ensure that your body’s collagen levels are optimal!
Is Pure Collagen Vegan?
Since collagen is a pure animal-derived protein, there are no pure collagen supplements that are also vegan. Any product that contains pure collagen is not suitable for vegans and plant-based eaters.
Could we see a 100% synthetic, lab-made collagen supplement sometime in the future?
Perhaps.
For now, though, your best bet is to add a high-quality plant-based collagen supplement to your daily routine.
Why You Should Add A Vegan Collagen Supplement To Your Diet
Now that you have a better idea of what sets vegan collagen boosters apart from traditional collagen supplements, let’s dive a bit deeper. Here’s how a vegan collagen supplement can improve your health and possibly even help you look younger!
Helps To Improve Your Skin
The main attraction of collagen supplements is that they’re purported to help your skin look younger by keeping it hydrated and more elastic. Essentially, vegan collagen could reduce the depth of wrinkles or prevent them from happening, in the first place.
The more hydrated and elastic your skin is, the less it will sag, the fewer wrinkles will develop, and the younger you’ll look.
May Prevent Joint Pain & Lower Your Chance of Arthritis
As we age, our bodies are no longer as strong and resilient as they once were. Our joints are more susceptible to injuries, and we often experience heightened pain and sensitivity when squatting, bending over, or lifting heavy weights. This can start as early as your late-twenties.
One of the main causes of this is that our bodies produce less collagen the older that we get.
Collagen makes up around two-thirds of the articular cartilage that surrounds the joints and allows them to move smoothly. A reduction in collagen production can reduce the strength of the cartilage, causing pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints.
Vegan collagen boosters are designed to ramp-up your body’s natural collagen production, which ensures that your cartilage is stronger and more protective. This, in turn, can reduce joint pain and lower your chances of arthritis!
Helps Your Hair Become Stronger
Last but not least, healthy collagen levels also correlate to stronger, healthier hair. The collagen in your hair follicles ensures that your hair has a higher concentration of keratin – the main protein found in hair.
Vegan Collagen – Is It The Real Deal?
I would argue that vegan collagen boosters are actually more effective than traditional collagen! Instead of consuming collagen from a dead animal, you’ll be taking a supplement that helps your body produce its own all-natural human collagen.
When your body is able to produce all of the collagen it needs, your hair, skin, and joints will be healthier and stronger. It’s never too soon to start thinking about your long-term health!