What is Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein?
Ancient Nutrition's Multi Collagen Protein is a flagship dietary supplement that stands out in the crowded collagen market. Unlike many competitors that rely on a single collagen source, Ancient Nutrition's product is a multi-source formula, including hydrolyzed bovine hide collagen peptides, fermented eggshell membrane collagen, chicken bone broth protein concentrate, and hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides. This blend provides 10 different types of collagen (including types I, II, III, V, and X), aiming for broad-spectrum support for the body.
The Multi-Source Advantage
The inclusion of multiple collagen sources is a key selling point. Different sources provide different types of collagen, which benefit various parts of the body. Type I is prevalent in skin, bones, and tendons, while Type II is key for cartilage. By combining bovine, chicken, fish, and eggshell membrane sources, Ancient Nutrition aims to offer a more comprehensive approach to collagen supplementation, targeting hair, skin, nails, joints, and gut health. The use of hydrolyzed collagen peptides means the collagen has been broken down into smaller, more easily digestible particles for better absorption.
Added Nutrients: Probiotics and Vitamin C
Beyond its diverse collagen profile, the Multi Collagen Protein formula is bolstered by two notable additions: soil-based organism (SBO) probiotics and Vitamin C. The SBO probiotics are included to support gut health, recognizing the close link between gut integrity and overall wellness. The addition of Vitamin C is crucial because it is an essential nutrient for the body's own collagen synthesis process. By including these complementary ingredients, Ancient Nutrition enhances the product's potential benefits beyond just providing collagen protein.
Is Ancient Nutrition Collagen Effective? A Look at the Evidence
The effectiveness of Ancient Nutrition's collagen can be evaluated by reviewing clinical studies and customer feedback. The brand cites clinical studies on its proprietary fermented eggshell membrane collagen, which is unique to its formula. These studies have shown positive results, such as reducing knee stiffness and improving the appearance of crow's feet. Many customers report noticeable improvements in hair, skin, and nails after consistent use. However, a key element of the formula, the multi-collagen blend, is a proprietary mix, meaning the exact concentration of each type is not fully transparent. This can make it difficult for consumers to know the precise benefits they are getting from each specific collagen type.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
While generally well-regarded, Ancient Nutrition's collagen has some potential drawbacks. Customer reviews regarding taste and mixability are mixed, with some users reporting a slightly gritty texture or noticeable flavor in the unflavored variety. Another important consideration is the presence of common allergens, specifically egg and fish, which makes it unsuitable for those with related allergies or for strict vegetarians and vegans. Furthermore, while Ancient Nutrition claims to perform third-party testing, some independent reviewers note a lack of transparency in the publicly available Certificate of Analysis (COA) compared to competitors.
Ancient Nutrition Collagen vs. Vital Proteins
To help determine if Ancient Nutrition is the right choice, here is a comparison with another popular brand, Vital Proteins.
| Feature | Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein | Vital Proteins Original Collagen Peptides |
|---|---|---|
| Collagen Types | 10 (I, II, III, V, X, etc.) | Primarily Type I & III |
| Collagen Sources | Bovine, Chicken, Fish, Eggshell Membrane | Bovine (grass-fed, pasture-raised) |
| Added Ingredients | Probiotics and Vitamin C | Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C in some products |
| Sourcing Transparency | Uses proprietary blend; sources claimed to be grass-fed, pasture-raised, etc. | Specifies grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine sources |
| Third-Party Testing | Claims testing, but some reviewers note lack of transparent COA details | Certified by reputable third-party labs like NSF |
| Customer Reviews | Very positive overall, but mixed on taste and mixability | Generally positive; widely trusted |
| Price | Often slightly more expensive, but includes more ingredients | Considered mid-range and accessible |
Pros and Cons of Ancient Nutrition Collagen
Pros
- Multi-Source Diversity: Provides 10 types of collagen from four different food sources, which offers a wider range of potential benefits.
- Value-Added Nutrients: The inclusion of clinically studied SBO probiotics and Vitamin C provides extra support for gut health and enhanced collagen synthesis.
- Sustainable Practices: The brand is praised for its commitment to regenerative agriculture and sustainable sourcing.
- Clinically Backed Fermented Ingredient: Features a unique, clinically-studied fermented eggshell membrane collagen ingredient that delivers real results for joint and skin health.
- Strong Brand Reputation: Has an excellent reputation among nutrition experts for quality and transparency.
Cons
- Proprietary Blend: The lack of transparency regarding the exact amounts of each collagen type in the proprietary blend is a notable disadvantage for some consumers.
- Mixed Mixability: Customer reviews are inconsistent regarding how well the powder dissolves, with some users reporting grittiness.
- Allergen Content: Contains allergens (egg and fish) that make it unsuitable for a broader range of dietary needs.
- Premium Price Point: Can be more expensive than single-source collagen peptide powders, though the extra ingredients can justify the cost for some.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Ancient Nutrition Collagen
So, is Ancient Nutrition a good collagen? For consumers seeking a comprehensive, multi-source collagen supplement enriched with probiotics and Vitamin C, it is a highly regarded and effective option. Its commitment to quality sourcing and regenerative farming further strengthens its appeal. The clinically studied fermented eggshell membrane component is a unique feature that adds to its proven benefits for joint and skin health.
However, potential buyers should be aware of the less transparent proprietary blend and mixed customer feedback on taste and solubility. For those without egg or fish allergies, willing to pay a premium price for a multi-benefit formula, Ancient Nutrition is an excellent choice. It offers more than a basic collagen product, making it a powerful contender in the supplement space.
For further reading on the brand's reputation, see this in-depth review by The Nutrition Insider.
