Protein or Collagen powder which one is right for you?
Supplementing with collagen (PCH Marine Collagen) provides plenty of benefits to the body BUT collagen doesn’t behave in the same way in the body as a whey or good quality vegan pea protein (see Pippa Loves for some of my favourite brands).
The main difference between protein powders and collagen powders is that collagen is an incomplete protein. It means that it doesn’t have all of the essential amino acids but all protein powders are complete proteins.
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. In comparison, collagen powders contain specific amino acids like glycine and proline. Great for rebuilding and synthesising collagen internally.
A lot of the protein powders on the market [made from pea or whey] are blended to create a complete protein. They have all the essential amino acids. Whey protein Isolate is the most bioavailable protein powder and it’s low in lactose and casein. Choose a grass-fed whey. Pea protein isolate is another excellent option with a good amino acid profile. Beef collagen protein or bone broth protein is low in tryptophan, an essential amino acid, and collagen typically has zero tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, a precursor of niacin and other neurotransmitters needed to keep the GI tract healthy.
Protein powders can have a positive effect on metabolism and post-workout recovery, according to a July 2017 study published in Nutrients . It can also help promote gaining lean muscle mass. Collagen is not a source of complete dietary protein. Dietary protein is the kind of protein that you consume to balance your blood sugar and it keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
Collagen is an important building block in bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscle. It plays a big role in the health of your hair, skin, and nails.
Personally, I love using both protein and collagen but I don’t rely on collagen as a great source of protein. PCH Marine Collagen helps boost levels of collagen in the skin, helping to combat signs of ageing.
