\u201cCollagen peptides are strands of amino acids\u2014the building blocks of protein\u2014that make up collagen protein in body tissues,\u201d says board-certified sports dietitian Kelly Jones, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN<\/a>, owner of KJN and Student Athlete Nutrition<\/a>. Just keep in mind that collagen is not a replacement for traditional protein powders because it\u2019s not a complete protein. \u201cIt does not contain all of the essential amino acids necessary for all of the protein\u2019s functions in the body, including muscle repair and growth,\u201d says Jones.<\/p>\n As the health supplement has grown in recognition over the years, so have the number of brands selling it. This, of course, makes what was once an easy decision more difficult. After all, what are the best collagen protein powders? We scoured the market to find out.<\/p>\n First off, a little collagen goes a long way. \u201cMore is not always better when it comes to any nutrient or supplement, so while some collagen brands have serving sizes offering over 10 grams of protein, a systematic review found that those who do see benefits may only need three grams per day,\u201d says Jones. This doesn\u2019t mean avoiding the brands with higher amounts, rather you can use less than the recommended serving size and still get the same perks.<\/p>\n Some collagen protein products offer simply \u201ccollagen peptides\u201d or \u201chydrolyzed collagen\u201d as the only ingredient, while others may add natural flavor, too. \u201cSince it\u2019s often added to smoothies or even warm beverages like coffee, added flavor isn\u2019t necessary, but it\u2019s important to find a product you like,\u201d Jones says.<\/p>\n Other collagen-buying tips to keep in mind<\/a>: Powder should be white, not colored (otherwise it might not be as pure), and see if the brand you\u2019re interested in has researched what\u2019s gone into its product (and is willing to share). Given that collagen is technically a supplement and thus not closely regulated by the FDA, it\u2019s always a good idea to do a bit more research. But in case you don\u2019t feel like doing more homework (fair!), we put together some powders that get a dietitian’s stamp of approval.<\/p>\n Ahead, find 15 of the best collagen protein powders worth working into your routine. Whether you mix them with water or incorporate them into your favorite smoothie or acai bowl recipe, collagen protein powder is bound to elevate your wellness routine.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/a><\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m a big fan of this powder as it comes from sustainable, wild-caught Arctic cod and includes vitamin C,\u201d says Jones. Vitamin C is critical for <\/span>building collagen proteins in the body<\/span><\/a>, so having this nutrient paired with the collagen powder may be helpful, she adds. While Nordic Naturals sells unflavored stick packs, its tub comes in a strawberry flavor, which you might like. \u201cI also like that they don\u2019t overdo the serving size and stick to what science shows is an acceptable dose,\u201d she adds, at 4 grams of protein per serving.<\/span><\/p>\n Collagen per serving:<\/b> 4 g | Flavors:<\/b> 1 |\u00a0 <\/span>Servings: <\/b>30 <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/p>\nWhat to look for in a collagen protein powder<\/h2>\n
Shop the best collagen protein powders<\/h2>\n
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