What is Marine Collagen?

@jastookes

Let’s be honest: we all want a little bit of magic when it comes to staying youthful. Cue marine collagen – the latest health trend that’s making waves (pun intended) in the wellness world. But, what is marine collagen, and why is it suddenly everywhere? Let’s dive into the science and facts in a way that won’t put you to sleep. Spoiler alert: marine collagen might just be your new best friend.

Marine Collagen: The Basics

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies, essentially acting as the "glue" that holds us together. It’s responsible for keeping our skin smooth and plump, our hair strong, and our joints flexible. Think of it as nature’s scaffolding.

But here’s the catch: after the age of 25, your body’s collagen production takes a nosedive. (Yep, that's why your knees now crack like a glow stick when you get up too fast.)

This is where collagen supplements come in. And among all the options—bovine, porcine, and plant-based—marine collagen has emerged as the star of the show.

So, what makes it different? Marine collagen is derived from the skin, bones, and scales of fish. It sounds a bit fishy, but stick with us. This type of collagen is rich in Type I collagen, the most abundant collagen type found in your skin, hair, and nails.

Why Marine Collagen Over Other Types?

The main reason marine collagen is causing a stir is its superior bioavailability. Simply put, bioavailability is how well your body can absorb and use a substance. Marine collagen’s peptides are smaller in size compared to other animal collagens, making them easier for your body to digest and absorb.

In other words, it’s like a VIP pass to your skin and joints. Bovine collagen? It’s waiting in line. Marine collagen? It’s already backstage.

Science Backs It Up: The Benefits of Marine Collagen

1. Smoother Skin

One of the most popular reasons people turn to marine collagen is for skin health, and science agrees with them. Studies have shown that marine collagen can help increase skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and improve overall hydration. Basically, it’s like hitting the refresh button on your skin.

Collagen peptides encourage your skin to ramp up its own collagen production. This means fewer fine lines, firmer skin, and a more youthful glow without needing to sell your soul to the skincare industry.

2. Stronger Hair and Nails

Marine collagen’s magic doesn’t stop at skin. It’s also a game-changer for hair and nails. Collagen provides the essential amino acids that are the building blocks for keratin—the protein that strengthens your hair and nails. This means less breakage, thicker strands, and nails that won’t chip after two days of a fresh manicure.

3. Joint and Bone Health

Feeling creaky? Marine collagen can help lubricate your joints and keep them functioning smoothly. Studies show that collagen can help reduce joint pain in athletes and those with osteoarthritis. Because marine collagen is easy for your body to absorb, it’s a solid choice for protecting your cartilage and supporting overall joint health.

Additionally, marine collagen may help improve bone density. It provides the amino acids needed to keep your bones strong and healthy, which is crucial as you age.

4. Gut Health Support

Here’s a lesser-known perk: collagen is good for your gut. It helps repair the gut lining and supports overall digestion. Marine collagen, specifically, is packed with glycine—an amino acid that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut barrier. So, if you’ve ever heard of “leaky gut,” this could be a way to help mend the situation.

Where Does It Come From? Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing

Now, you might be wondering, “Is marine collagen environmentally friendly?” Here’s the good news. Most marine collagen is sourced from fish byproducts—things like scales and skin that would otherwise go to waste. By using these parts for collagen production, it reduces overall waste and contributes to more sustainable practices in the fishing industry.

The fish used are typically wild-caught or sustainably farmed, meaning that marine collagen can often align with ethical and eco-friendly values.

How to Use Marine Collagen

Ready to give it a try? Luckily, it’s easy to incorporate into your routine. Marine collagen supplements usually come in powder form, which is flavorless and dissolves easily in liquids. You can toss a scoop into your morning coffee, mix it with water, or blend it into a smoothie. It's versatile, and the taste is so subtle, you’ll forget it’s there.

Just be sure to check the source of the collagen to ensure it’s from reputable suppliers. As with any supplement, consistency is key, so don’t expect overnight results. But give it a few weeks, and you might start noticing your skin looks more radiant, your hair shinier, and your knees—well, a little less noisy.

So, Is Marine Collagen Worth the Hype?

In short: yes, but with realistic expectations. Marine collagen is not a miracle worker, but it does provide substantial benefits for your skin, hair, joints, and even your gut. Plus, it’s easy to add to your daily routine, and since it’s derived from fish byproducts, it can be a more sustainable choice compared to other sources of collagen.

Whether you're aiming for glowing skin or smoother joints, marine collagen is worth considering. Just think of it as your ticket to aging gracefully—or at least, creaking a little less along the way.

Final Thoughts

Marine collagen is having its moment, and for good reason. It’s packed with benefits that support your body from the inside out. Sure, we can’t stop time (yet), but incorporating marine collagen into your routine is one small way to keep yourself looking and feeling your best—naturally. After all, if fish can stay sleek and smooth in the water, why can’t we on land?

References:

1. Zague, V. (2008). "A new view concerning the effects of collagen hydrolysate intake on skin properties." Archives of Dermatological Research, 300(9), pp. 479-483.

2. Borumand, M. and Sibilla, S. (2014). "Effects of a nutritional supplement containing collagen peptides on skin elasticity, hydration, and wrinkles." Journal of Medical Nutrition and Nutraceuticals, 3(1), pp. 47-53.

3. McAlindon, T.E., Nuite, M., Krishnan, N., Ruthazer, R., Price, L.L., Burstein, D., Griffith, J., and Flechsenhar, K. (2011). "Change in knee osteoarthritis cartilage detected by delayed gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging following collagen hydrolysate supplementation: a pilot study." Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 19(4), pp. 399-405.

4. Bello, A.E. and Oesser, S. (2006). "Collagen hydrolysate for the treatment of osteoarthritis and other joint disorders: a review of the literature." Current Medical Research and Opinion, 22(11), pp. 2221-2232.

5. Yamada, S. and Yamamoto, S. (2014). "Effect of dietary supplementation with fish collagen peptides on skin and scales of sea bream." Fisheries Science, 80(2), pp. 413-419.

6. Asserin, J., Lati, E., Shioya, T., and Prawitt, J. (2015). "The effect of oral collagen peptide supplementation on skin moisture and the dermal collagen network: evidence from an ex vivo model and randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 14(4), pp. 291-301.

Read related articles