How and when to take collagen?

Collagen supplements are clinically proven to improve skin quality, firmness and elasticity. This protein is known to help skin age well by reducing wrinkles and maintaining its radiance.

This article provides all the information you need to start a collagen treatment with confidence, including the best way to take collagen, the recommended dose of marine collagen per day, when to take collagen and at at what age to take collagen,and especially in what form and how to take collagen.

Collagen is an essential protein found in the body, which plays a crucial role in the structure and health of skin, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is responsible for the firmness and elasticity of the skin.

Collagen has a particular structure which is characterized by a specific sequence of amino acids, including glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. This unique structure is in the form of a triple helix, also known as a triple alpha helix, where three polypeptide chains intertwine tightly. 

This triple helix structure gives collagen its stability and strength, which are essential for the strength of connective tissues.

To read:  What is collagen? 

Collagen is an essential protein in our body, playing a crucial role in the structure of skin, hair, nails, tendons and cartilage. Its production declines with age, which can lead to signs of aging and health problems.

Collagen supplements have become popular to help offset this decline and improve skin and joint health.

Before determining when to take collagenorwhat time of day to take collagen, it is important to understand how our body absorbs this protein.

Collagen is usually available in powder, capsule, or liquid form.

When we consume collagen supplements, it is important to understand how this protein is absorbed by our body to reap the full benefits.

When collagen is ingested in the form of dietary supplements, it first goes through the digestion process.

Collagen proteins are broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids by digestive enzymes found in the stomach and small intestine.

This enzymatic hydrolysis is a crucial step, because entire collagen molecules are too large to be absorbed directly through the intestinal wall.

Once broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids, these fragments are taken up by cells in the small intestine through active and passive transport mechanisms.

These collagen fragments then enter the bloodstream and are distributed throughout the body.

The absorbed collagen peptides can then exert several beneficial effects.

They stimulate connective tissue cells, called fibroblasts, to produce more endogenous collagen. Additionally, these peptides may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which contribute to overall connective tissue health.

Scientific studies have shown that regular consumption ofhydrolyzed collagen can improve skin elasticity, strong>reduce wrinkles and joint pain, and strengthen hair and nails.

It is important to note that the effects may vary depending on the individual, the quality of the collagen supplement used, and the duration of consumption.

In summary, the process of collagen absorption involves its breakdown into peptides and amino acids in the digestive system, followed by their intestinal absorption and distribution throughout the body. These collagen fragments can then contribute to the synthesis of new collagen and overall connective tissue health.

Indeed, from the age of 25, the production of collagen decreases, which leads to the appearance of signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, loss volume and elasticity.

These changes can also manifest themselves in the body through joint and tendon problems, poor assimilation and digestive disorders.

From the age of 40, the body produces approximately 1% less collagen each year. This means the body has less collagen to support the skin, joints and connective tissues.

By the age of 50 , we would have used up half of our collagen capital.

It is possible to start collagen supplementation from the age of 25 as a preventative measure. By improving skin quality, collagen supplementation can delay the appearance of the first signs of aging.

In certain cases, such as smoking, a stressful lifestyle, repeated UV exposure without sun protection or very intense physical activity, it may be wise to start collagen supplementation from the age of 25 to avoid premature degradation. collagen proteins in the body.

Some people choose to take collagen in the morning on an empty stomach for better absorption, while others prefer it before or after exercise. Some experts also suggest taking collagen before bed, to promote cell regeneration during sleep.

a. In the morning on an empty stomach

Taking collagen in the morning on an empty stomach can promote better absorption of collagen peptides because the stomach is empty and digestive enzymes can work more effectively.

b. Before or after exercise

Taking collagen before or after exercise can help support muscle recovery and promote joint health. Collagen peptides can be quickly absorbed and used by the body to repair connective tissues.

c. Before bedtime

Taking collagen before bed can promote cell regeneration during sleep. The body repairs and regenerates itself overnight, and collagen peptides can support this process.

Intermittent fasting, an increasingly popular practice, involves alternating between periods of fasting and eating.

This method can have various effects on the body, including on the absorption of nutrients.

When it comes to taking collagen, the timing of consumption during a fasting cycle can influence its effectiveness.

• Improved Absorption

During a fasting period, the stomach and intestines are empty, which can make supplements easier to absorb when consumed at the end of the fast. When you take collagen on an empty stomach, there is no competition with other nutrients for absorption. This may allowfaster and more efficient assimilation of collagen peptidesand amino acids in the digestive system.

• Maximizing Regenerative Benefits

Fasting has been linked to various health benefits, including improved cell regeneration and reduction of inflammation. Taking collagen after a period of fasting could enhance these effects. Collagen provides the amino acids needed for tissue repair, and fasting can potentially increase the sensitivity of cells to these nutrients, thereby optimizing the regeneration process.

• Timing and Consumption

For those who practice intermittent fasting, consuming collagen right after the fasting period can be particularly beneficial. For example, if you follow a 16/8 fasting pattern (16 hours of fasting followed by 8 hours of food intake), taking collagen at the end of the 16 hours can maximize its absorption and effects .

• Practical Considerations

It's important to note that while fasting may improve collagen absorption for some people, everyone responds differently to fasting and supplements. It is advisable to start slowly and monitor how your body reacts. If you have specific health concerns or pre-existing medical conditions, consult a healthcare professional before incorporating collagen and fasting into your routine.

Fasting can potentially improve collagen absorption by reducing competition with other nutrients and increasing cell sensitivity to essential amino acids. Taking collagen after a period of fasting can therefore maximize its regenerative and tissue repair benefits. However, it is crucial to listen to your body and adapt collagen consumption based on your individual needs and reactions.

The powder form of collagen allows for high bioavailability, optimal digestibility and absorption, and can be used in a variety of ways.

Marine collagen powder is primarily composed of 100% hydrolyzed collagen peptides, like that offered by D-LAB.

Among all sources of collagen, powdered marine collagen is considered one of the most easily assimilated by the body, because its structure is similar to that of human collagen. 

Some people find collagen tablets easier to use than powders. They should be added to your daily routine, morning or evening, depending on your pace.

Certain foods like bone broth, fish, eggs and goji berries contain nutrients that promote collagen production.

Some traditional dishes cooked for a long time are naturally rich in collagen, such as bone broth, stew, fish and shellfish broths, or even marrow bones and gelatin. 

For vegetarians or vegans, it is preferable to choose foods that stimulate the synthesis of collagen and help its regeneration, such as those rich in vitamin C (sprouted seeds, peppers, kiwi, berries and small red fruits, citrus fruits, parsley). . Spirulina is also known to stimulate collagen synthesis.

To complement and reinforce the action of collagen food supplements, you can incorporate treatments containing collagen into your beauty routine (concentrated collagen serums, collagen creams, etc.).

In active cosmetic form, collagen acts as a protective shield for the skin, maintaining its hydration and preserving it from external aggressions. 

It also reinforces skin hydration, gives a fresh and plump complexion, and improves the texture and elasticity of the skin. 

Some products also stimulate the natural production of collagen, thus promoting healthy and youthful skin, such as vitamin C.