Collagen Peptides - Sports Research

Product: 11 g collagen per scoop | 22.58 oz (640 g) powder Brand: Sports Research Primary Use: Skin health, joint support, hair/nail strength

Form & Bioavailability

Type: Hydrolyzed Type I & III Collagen Peptides Source: Bovine (grass-fed, pasture-raised) Molecular weight: Hydrolyzed for absorption (peptides, not whole collagen)

Collagen Type | Found In | Benefits

---------------|----------|----------

Type I | Skin, bones, tendons | Skin elasticity, wound healing

Type III | Skin, blood vessels | Works with Type I for skin/hair

Type II | Cartilage | Joint health (different source)

Hydrolyzed collagen (peptides) is broken down into smaller molecules (2-5 kDa) for better absorption vs intact collagen.

Mechanism

Collagen peptides are absorbed and provide amino acids (glycine, proline, hydroxyproline) that stimulate the body's own collagen synthesis. They may also signal fibroblasts to increase collagen production. Benefits accumulate over 8-12 weeks of consistent use.

Dosing

• Maintenance: 5-10 g/day
• Therapeutic: 10-15 g/day (skin/joint benefits)
• Upper limit: No established limit; 15-20 g commonly used
• Timing: Any time; can add to coffee, smoothies, foods
• Duration: Minimum 8-12 weeks to see benefits; continuous use recommended

Safety

Common side effects: Very rare; occasional mild bloating or fullness Contraindications: None significant Key interactions:

• 🟢 No significant drug interactions
• 🟢 Synergistic with Vitamin C (cofactor for collagen synthesis)

Evidence Quality

Moderate evidence for:

• Skin elasticity and hydration improvement
• Reduction in wrinkle depth
• Joint pain reduction (especially in athletes)
• Nail strength improvement

Preliminary evidence for:

• Bone density support
• Gut lining health
• Hair growth/thickness

Studies typically show benefits at 2.5-15 g/day over 8+ weeks.

Product Assessment

Positives:

• 11 g per scoop (therapeutic dose in one serving)
• Type I & III (optimal for skin/hair/nails)
• Hydrolyzed for absorption
• 18 amino acids including glycine, proline, hydroxyproline
• Third-party tested
• Certified Paleo, Keto Certified, Non-GMO
• Unflavored, dissolves well in hot liquids
• 10 g protein per serving, only 40 calories
• Good value for quantity

Considerations:

• Clumps in cold liquids (mix with room temp first, then add ice)
• Bovine source (not suitable for vegetarians)
• For joint cartilage specifically, Type II collagen may be more targeted

Usage Tips

• Best absorption: Mix with room temperature liquid first
• For skin/hair: Combine with Vitamin C (100-500 mg)
• For joints: Consistent daily use for 12+ weeks
• Versatile: Coffee, smoothies, oatmeal, baked goods

Verdict

Well-formulated collagen peptide powder with therapeutic dosing (11 g), appropriate collagen types (I & III), and quality certifications. The hydrolyzed form ensures good absorption. Excellent value for the quantity provided. Long-term users report consistent benefits for skin, nails, and hair.

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*Research compiled using supplement-researcher methodology*