Marine Collagen: Benefits, Properties and Uses
If you have ever searched for the keto diet compatible dietary supplements, you might have encountered marine collagen peptides. Manufacturers of dietary supplements usually market such supplements in powder or capsule form. Marine collagen is a great alternative to lactose-containing protein powder and it has an additional benefit to the body. The reason why marine collagen is so popular with individuals on the ketogenic diet is that it has anti-inflammatory properties, is easily digestible, tasteless and well tolerated.
Marine collagen is a relatively new product in the wellness market, and research into its benefits is just beginning. So far, most research on marine collagen looks promising. Maritime collagen is not only excellent for post-exercise muscle recovery, but it also helps protect joints, digestive system, muscles, and skin by taking such supplements for extended periods of time, as proven by past research.
Read on to find out more about marine collagen, what it is, why it is used by the keto dieters, and what beneficial properties it has. Here you will find information on how to use marine collagen to enrich your diet and why you should choose marine collagen instead of other types of collagen.
Collagen: What Is it?
Collagen is a generic term used to describe a group of structural proteins. These proteins make up up to 25% of the total protein in our body. There are about 30 different types of collagen, but type I and type II collagen are the most common and make up up to 90% of the total collagen in the body.
The term "collagen" is derived from Greek and means "glue". Scientists also often call collagen "the glue that holds everything together." This is because collagen provides structure to our skin, joints, bones and the connective tissue. Its production in the body reaches its peak at the age of about 20 years and begins to decline as of the age of 30. This is when the first signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and the loss of muscle mass, occur. Fortunately, there are several ways in which collagen production can be boosted, and taking collagen supplements is one of them.
The body produces collagen from the amino acids found in protein foods.
However, collagen can also be obtained directly from animal tissues. Animal joints are one of the most common sources of collagen. The body also needs vitamin C to produce collagen. Without this vitamin, collagen synthesis slows down and vitamin C deficiency can develop. It is a disease caused by insufficient levels of vitamin C in the body, which makes the body unable to repair tissue damage.
Collagen also makes up the most of the joint tissue and is essential for the formation of scars. Have you ever noticed how scars differ from healthy skin? This is because scars have a denser layer of collagen than that in healthy skin, since the collagen that forms scars is located in parallel, as opposed to the collagen in healthy skin, whose fibers are arranged in a network-like pattern. This positioning gives elasticity and suppleness to the skin.
About the Peptides from Marine Collagen
When it comes to collagen supplements, collagen peptides are the most common that are kept in mind. Collagen peptides are a hydrolyzed form of collagen. The reason manufacturers use hydrolysis to produce collagen supplements is because this process makes collagen easier to digest.
Collagen peptides are usually extracted from cows and pigs. However, they can also be obtained from marine animals such as fish. Manufacturers have begun supplying marine collagen peptides primarily to people who cannot eat cattle and pork due to health or religious beliefs.
Another great thing about marine collagen is that it is sourced from a sustainable source. The manufacturers of the supplements extract this collagen from fish bones, skin, fins, heads, and scales, which other companies are likely to discard as waste. Some species of marine collagen are also extracted from jellyfish and sea sponges. The collagen from fish is by far the best source of marine collagen, just like the marine collagen we use here at BIYOMA.
BIYOMA Beauty Complex is a beauty (skin, hair, nails) and mobility complex with hyaluronic acid and marine collagen.
During the production of marine collagen peptides, the scales, fins and bones of fish are separated because different types of collagen are present in different tissues of the body. The different parts of the fish are then ground together and, using chemicals, collagen is separated from other proteins, fats and pigments. Collagen is further hydrolysed to be digested and taken up by our bodies.
Collagen Peptides in Our Body
The body metabolizes collagen peptides in the same way as any other nutrient. This process begins when the small intestine absorbs peptides. Further, peptides enter the bloodstream and specific tissues such as skin, joint capsule and the connective tissue. In these tissues, collagen peptides act as building blocks of cells. They also stimulate the production of new collagen fibers.
Collagen can be obtained directly from food, bone broth and gelatin are two of the most common sources of collagen. Our body is able to absorb large amounts of collagen from these foods. A study conducted in 2015 found that the body absorbs at least half of the collagen in gelatin [1]. However, it is much easier and more convenient to obtain collagen from supplements. Studies show that about 90% of hydrolyzed collagen is absorbed within 12 hours of consumption [2]. Marine collagen is even better absorbed because its molecules are smaller than bovine or pork collagen. Studies have already explored this issue and it is proven that blood collagen levels increase very rapidly after its intake [3].
Marine Collagen and Ketogenic Nutrition
Marine collagen is popular among the keto dieters. But why is that? Do these supplements in any way accelerate ketosis, or is it because they are low in carbohydrates? One explanation is that the keto diet requires the abandonment of a number of protein products, so taking protein supplements can be a bit confusing. It is easy to go overboard when using protein supplements, and most of them are also poorly digested.
To avoid these problems, the keto diet proponents choose marine collagen. Marine collagen does not irritate the digestive system, which works so hard to process large fat and protein molecules. Marine collagen can also be added to most keto dishes without changing their taste. In addition, marine collagen does not cause inflammatory processes in the body, which is important for people on the keto diet.
Highly active proponents of ketogenic nutrition want something that can support normal muscle and joint function, so marine collagen is a great option. Marine collagen is also used for its anti-aging properties. However, when it comes to the specific effects of collagen on the keto diet, we have to be disappointed because there are none. Marine collagen does not promote the release of ketones and it is also impossible to overdose. It simply complements the keto diet.
Marine collagen should be taken in the same way as any other dietary supplement. It contains glycine, proline and arginine, a glycogenic amino acid that the body can use to make glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis.
The Beneficial Properties of Marine Collagen
- A better collagen synthesis
As we have already mentioned, collagen synthesis slows down significantly as we grow older. If you are on a low protein diet, you may also experience an even faster loss of collagen.
Taking marine collagen supplements is an easy way to ensure that your body receives enough protein daily. However, there are many other beneficial properties of collagen.
There are also other ways to ensure adequate protein intake: eating high protein foods, taking vitamin C supplements, avoiding stress and smoking, and limiting exposure to direct sunlight. However, taking marine collagen supplements is a simpler and more effective way to increase collagen levels in your body. You will feel particularly strong if you are over 35, as this is the time when it becomes difficult for the body to produce enough collagen and maintain succulent skin and healthy joints.
- Youthful skin
Collagen is a popular ingredient in skincare and not in vain. When applied directly to the skin, collagen improves its elasticity and firmness.
However, taking regular collagen supplements will have a stronger effect, at least that's what scientists say. For example, in a recent study using old rats, collagen was found to increase skin firmness in rats aged up to 45 years [4].
To further improve your skin condition, remember to take vitamin C supplements or use complexes that already contain this vitamin. The recommended daily dose of vitamin C is 92 mg for men and 75 mg for women. In addition to vitamin C, avoid spending a lot of time in direct sunlight and never smoke. These two things increase the amount of free radicals in the skin and irreversibly damage DNA.
- Strong hair and nails
If you suffer from crumbly hair and nails then marine collagen is just for you. Of course, these problems are not always the result of a lack of collagen. Hormone fluctuations and nutrient deficiencies can also be the cause of hair and nail loss.
Nonetheless, collagen is the major constituent of our hair and nails, so taking supplements definitely will not be detrimental. Add collagen peptides to your drinks and green smoothies and wait for the improvement to be noticed. You may benefit from taking collagen protein if you are over 40. Studies show that hair thickness and volume begin to decline around the age of 40 [5]. Later, the hair also begins to become more frizzy due to lower fat loss, so take these factors into account as well.
- Healthy joints
Our joints are surrounded by a joint capsule that reduces friction. The joint capsule is smooth, elastic and strong. It is made up of specific cells called chondroicytes which conduct the synthesis of collagen.
The joint capsule is extremely susceptible to trauma and difficult to heal. Marine collagen supplements can accelerate joint healing, but only to a certain degree.
Studies show that collagen supplements reduce athlete joint pain [6]. Athletes should pay particular attention to their joints, as the joint capsule will wear out more quickly with regular exercise. Scientists have also observed that collagen alleviates the symptoms of osteoarthritis [7]. That is why doctors prescribe collagen supplements for people with joint disorders. To date, the side effects of collagen supplements are not known, so they are safe for everyone to use.
- Stronger muscles
As you age, your body loses muscle mass. This process is partly responsible for the reduced collagen synthesis. Other factors include a decrease in testosterone levels and a slower metabolism. Studies in men with older sarcopenia show that, compared with placebo, collagen peptides increase muscle mass and strength by combining the use of such supplements with strength exercises [8].
This means that taking collagen supplements can help prevent aging-related muscle mass loss. These supplements are also beneficial for athletes regardless of age. Research shows that collagen peptides promote muscle growth and endurance just like any other protein supplement. In addition, some types of collagen have been shown to be essential for normal muscle regeneration [9].
- Health of the digestive system
The normal functioning of the digestive system is particularly important for the individuals on the keto diet, as it ensures the normal absorption and transfer of nutrients to the cells.
This diet is high in protein and fat which is difficult to digest and it is important to maintain the optimal digestive system function. Fortunately, research shows that marine collagen can help with this problem.
One study of collagen from coalfish found it to help maintain a normal bowel function. Intestinal dysfunction can occur in a variety of allergic reactions to certain nutrients, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and even autoimmune diseases [10]. The reason marine collagen helps digestion is because of its anti-inflammatory amino acid glutamine.
- Control of Appetite
Marine collagen is made up of amino acids only. Amino acids, as you already know, are building blocks of protein, and proteins give a sense of satiety.
If you are on the keto diet and want to consume more protein to make you more full, mixing collagen powder into green smoothies, pancakes, coffee and even soups is a great way to achieve this.
The keto diet is characterized by a reduction in appetite. However, if you still think that eating too much or hunger attacks is interfering with your daily activities, then start mixing marine collagen supplements in your meals. For best results, mix collagen with foods high in carbohydrates and fats.
How to Use Marine Collagen?
It is recommended that dietary supplements containing marine collagen peptide be administered at least 2 times daily. Morning and evening. Make sure you drink enough water throughout the day.
If you want to improve your physical fitness, you can take one or two capsules of collagen supplement half an hour before your workout. Collagen is absorbed relatively quickly, allowing the body to use it for muscle and even energy production. You can take collagen supplements at any time of the day, most importantly within the recommended daily allowance.
BIYOMA Beauty Complex: a beauty (skin, hair, nails) and mobility-flexibility complex with low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, marine collagen (type 1), glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and ascorbic acid. See the product description for more information.
Final Words
Marine collagen is an easily digestible supplement obtained from natural sources. Individuals on the ketogenic diet adore this supplement because it increases the daily intake of protein and helps maintain a healthy digestive system. The best thing about marine collagen, however, is not that it helps ensure sufficient protein intake, but that it improves the body's overall performance.
Marine collagen is good for the joints and muscles, it supports the normal skin function, strengthens hair and nails and supports the normal digestive system function. Including it in your keto diet will result in decreased appetite and increased endurance when exercising. Add some marine collagen to your shakes, smoothies or soups, or simply drink it with water. Above all, follow the directions for use on the supplement label.
References and sources:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25410396
[2] http://www.jmnn.org/article.asp?issn=2278-1870;year=2015;volume=4;issue=1;spage=47;epage=53;aulast=Borumand
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29114654
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5707681/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22524482
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18416885
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24852756
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4594048/
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3682802/
[10] http://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2017/fo/c6fo01347c#!divAbstract