What Makes Ancient Nutrition Collagen Unique?
Ancient Nutrition, co-founded by Dr. Josh Axe, distinguishes itself from many competitors with its multi-source approach. Their flagship Multi Collagen Protein product is formulated with up to 10 types of collagen, sourced from beef, chicken, fish, and fermented eggshell membrane. This comprehensive blend is designed to offer a wider range of benefits than products using only one or two collagen types.
Beyond just collagen, Ancient Nutrition's formula also includes several key additions that set it apart. Many of their collagen products are enhanced with soil-based organism (SBO) probiotics, intended to support gut health, and vitamin C, which is crucial for the body's natural collagen synthesis. The company's commitment to using sustainably sourced, non-GMO, and grass-fed/pasture-raised ingredients is also a significant selling point for many health-conscious consumers.
Customer Reviews and Feedback: The Pros and Cons
Public perception of Ancient Nutrition's collagen products is generally positive, with tens of thousands of favorable reviews across major online retailers. Many users report noticeable improvements in hair, skin, and nail health, as well as reduced joint pain. The inclusion of multiple collagen types and additional nutrients like probiotics is frequently praised.
However, customer experiences are not universally glowing. Some consumers have raised issues with the product's taste and mixability, noting a grainy or cloudy texture, though the company has made formulation changes to address this. A key point of contention is the use of a proprietary blend, which means the specific quantities of each collagen type are not disclosed, leading to questions about ingredient transparency. Furthermore, a class-action lawsuit filed against the company in 2023 alleged false advertising regarding a different product (Brain Boost), which, while not directly related to their collagen, has raised broader transparency concerns for some consumers.
Comparison: Ancient Nutrition vs. Competitors
To determine if Ancient Nutrition is a good collagen brand, it's helpful to compare it directly with other market leaders like Vital Proteins and Transparent Labs.
| Feature | Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen | Vital Proteins Original Collagen | Transparent Labs Collagen Hydrolysate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collagen Sources | Bovine, chicken, fish, fermented eggshell membrane (up to 10 types) | Bovine (Type I & III) | Grass-fed bovine (Type I & III) |
| Added Ingredients | Probiotics, Vitamin C | None (basic formula) | None (basic formula) |
| Transparency | Uses proprietary blends; some third-party testing transparency issues noted | Transparently lists ingredients and sources | Fully transparent, Informed Choice Certified |
| Price | Mid-to-high range, can be competitively priced | Generally mid-range, often more affordable per serving | Generally higher-end, but fully transparent |
| Key Differentiator | Multi-source blend with added nutrients | Simple, effective, and popular bovine formula | High transparency and third-party testing |
What to Consider When Choosing a Collagen Brand
- Collagen Types: If you want a wide spectrum of collagen types, Ancient Nutrition is appealing due to its diverse sources, which go beyond the common Type I and III. However, scientific consensus doesn't definitively prove that more types are inherently better.
- Added Nutrients: Ancient Nutrition’s inclusion of probiotics and vitamin C means you get more in one supplement, but if you prefer to manage these ingredients separately, a more basic formula might be better.
- Transparency: For consumers who prioritize knowing the exact breakdown of ingredients and seeing comprehensive third-party testing results, brands like Transparent Labs offer a higher degree of transparency than Ancient Nutrition's proprietary blend approach.
- Mixability and Taste: While improvements have been made, some users still report issues with Ancient Nutrition's mixability. If you prefer a completely tasteless, easily dissolving powder, it's worth reading recent reviews or trying a smaller size first.
- Budget: Ancient Nutrition can be competitively priced, especially when purchased in larger quantities or on promotion, but there are more budget-friendly options available.
Conclusion
Is Ancient Nutrition a good collagen brand? For many, the answer is yes. Its multi-source formula, enhanced with probiotics and vitamin C, offers a comprehensive approach to collagen supplementation that many customers appreciate. However, its proprietary blend and less transparent third-party testing compared to some competitors are notable drawbacks. Ultimately, Ancient Nutrition is a solid choice for those seeking an all-in-one product with multiple collagen types and added benefits, provided they are comfortable with the proprietary blend formulation. For those who prioritize ingredient transparency and specific testing certifications, exploring other brands might be a better fit.
How to Get the Best Results from Ancient Nutrition Collagen
To maximize the potential benefits of Ancient Nutrition's collagen, consider the following best practices:
- Consistent Use: Like most supplements, consistency is key. Daily use over several months is typically needed to see noticeable results in hair, skin, nails, and joints.
- Proper Mixing: To avoid the reported issues with clumping, try using a blender, hand frother, or mixing the powder with warmer liquid first before adding it to a cold beverage.
- Dietary Context: Remember that collagen supplements are not a complete protein source and should complement, not replace, a balanced diet. Ensure you're also consuming a variety of protein sources.
- Consult a Professional: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or allergies, particularly to egg or fish, which are present in Ancient Nutrition's multi-collagen products.
