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Vegan Collagen vs Animal Collagen: Which is Better?

Vegan Collagen vs Animal Collagen, which is better?

Traditionally, collagen supplements have been made from animal sources, such as bovine (cow) or marine (fish) collagen.

However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in vegan collagen supplements.

The word collagen in scrabble; with 3 small bowls of collagen supplements below it.
Vegan collagen vs animal collagen

Collagen Explained

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, found in the skin, bones, muscles, and connective tissues.

It plays a vital role in keeping our skin plump and youthful, our joints lubricated, and our bodies strong and healthy.

As we age, our collagen production naturally declines, which can lead to a number of problems, including wrinkles, fine lines, joint pain, and muscle weakness.

To help boost collagen production, many people turn to supplements.

Woman looking in mirror
Aging causes collagen breakdown.

What is Vegan Collagen?

Vegan collagen supplements are made from plant-based ingredients that support the body’s natural collagen production.

These ingredients may include amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for collagen synthesis.

Collagen - spoon and bowl
Vegan Collagen

What is Animal Collagen?

Animal collagen supplements are made from the hooves, bones, and connective tissues of animals.

These supplements are typically hydrolyzed, which means that the collagen proteins have been broken down into smaller peptides that are easier for the body to absorb.

Cow
Collagen comes from cows.

Which is Better: Vegan Collagen or Animal Collagen?

There is no definitive answer to the question of whether vegan collagen or animal collagen is better.

Both types of supplements have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Vegan Collagen:

  • Cruelty-free and sustainable.
  • Suitable for people with allergies to animal products.
  • May contain other beneficial plant-based ingredients, such as antioxidants and vitamins.

Disadvantages of Vegan Collagen

  • Does not contain any actual collagen. Instead, they provide the body with the building blocks it needs to produce its own collagen. This means that it may take longer to see results with vegan collagen than with animal collagen.
  • May be more expensive than animal collagen supplements.
Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of Animal Collagen

  • Contains actual collagen peptides, which are easier for the body to absorb.
  • May produce results more quickly than vegan collagen supplements.
  • Less expensive than vegan collagen supplements.

Disadvantages of Animal Collagen

  • Not suitable for people with allergies to animal products.
  • May contain contaminants, such as heavy metals and hormones.
  • May be less sustainable than vegan collagen supplements.

Which Collagen Supplement is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of collagen supplement is right for you is to weigh the pros and cons of each type and choose the one that is right for you.

If you are looking for a cruelty-free and sustainable option, then vegan collagen may be the right choice for you.

However, if you are looking for a supplement that will produce results quickly, then animal collagen may be a better option.

You also want to consider your individual needs and preferences.

For example, if you have an allergy to animal products, then you will need to choose a vegan collagen supplement.

If you are on a budget, then you may want to choose an animal collagen supplement, as they are typically less expensive.

It is also important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, including collagen supplements.

The words collagen in scrabble squares next to a bowl of collagen powder

You can learn more about collagen in this Age-Defying Dietitian blog post – “Marine Collagen vs Bovine Collagen – Which One is Right for You?“.

Hungry for More?

Interested in more information on how your diet can improve your appearance?

Check out the Skin & Beauty Nutrition section of the blog for more!

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*Please note this blog post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

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