Collagen supplements have quickly become a major component to many people’s modern wellness routines, claiming everything from supporting skin health to promoting joint health.
However, the big question for some consumers usually comes down to collagen peptides vs. marine collagen, how do they differ and which is more effective?
To answer this question, you must first understand the differences in how collagen peptides and marine collagen are sourced, processed and how your body will use each when they are consumed.
Collagen Peptides Explained
Collagen peptides are simply shortened (hydrolyzed using an enzymatic process that reduces the size of the larger collagen proteins down to shorter chains of amino acids (smaller units that have to be digested by your body), so your body will be able to break down and use them for the most part.
Collagen peptides can be sourced from many different animals but primarily from bovine (cow), porcine (pig) or fish. Because they have undergone the hydrolysis process, collagen peptides disintegrate easily when mixed into liquids and are widely used in powders as well as functional beverages.
The primary difference between marine collagen and collagen peptides includes their availability within the body because collagen peptides have been modified into a more bio-available form of collagen that delivers amino acids required by your body to maintain your body’s connective tissue, including skin, cartilage and tendons.
Marine collagen derived from fish, more specifically from the skin and scales or bones of fish. Marine collagen has particularly high levels of Type I collagen, which is the collagen found in human skin most abundantly.
Experts propose that marine collagen may be absorbed more easily by our bodies if it’s ingested because marine collagen has smaller molecules than other types of collagen.
Some studies indicate that marine collagen may be up to 1.5x more bio-available than collagen from other sources.
Many consumers interested in improving their skin choose marine collagen over other options because it has the highest concentration of the two amino acids (glycine and proline), which help with skin elasticity and hydration.
Key differences
The major distinctions of collagen peptides compared to marine collagen are as follows:
- Source: The primary source of marine collagen is fish, whereas collagen peptides can be obtained from numerous mammals such as cows, pigs and fish.
- Benefits: Due to marine collagen containing predominantly Type I collagen, it is frequently cited as having advantages for skin, hair and nails. Although bovine-derived collagen peptides possess mainly Types I and III collagens, they may also benefit connective tissues and joints.
- Absorption: Both forms of collagen are highly absorbable; however, hydrolyzed collagen peptides are the easiest of the two types to incorporate into beverages or use regularly as part of your daily diet.
An overall winner does not exist in the battle between collagen peptides and marine collagen. For people who put their emphasis on skin health and want to use a pescatarian-friendly supplement, they may like marine collagen.
However, collagen peptides, especially those from bovine (beef) sources, typically provide a wider range of structural support for joints, muscles and connective tissue than marine collagen.
Ultimately, your health goals, dietary needs and how well you consistently use your chosen supplement will determine the right collagen supplement for you.