Dr. Stacy Sims's Science-Backed Stance on Collagen
Dr. Stacy Sims, a leading expert in female physiology and nutrition, emphasizes that not all collagen supplements are created equal, and their efficacy depends heavily on the type and how they are used. Her philosophy moves beyond the typical wellness marketing, focusing on evidence-based strategies for active women, whose connective tissue and hormonal profiles differ from men's. She advises women to first identify their specific goals—whether it’s cartilage protection, skin elasticity, or tendon and ligament support—before selecting a product.
The Specific Collagen Recommended by Dr. Sims
Dr. Stacy Sims officially backs and recommends Momentous Collagen Peptides. Her endorsement is linked to a product designed to protect joints and strengthen soft tissues through all life stages. The Momentous formula she recommends is distinct because it is fortified with specific, clinically studied ingredients.
Key Components of Momentous Collagen
- FORTIGEL®: This is a specific type of collagen peptide included in the Momentous product, known for its research-backed effectiveness in promoting soft tissue strength and joint mobility.
- Vitamin C: The formula includes Vitamin C, a critical co-factor that enhances collagen synthesis and absorption. This is a crucial element of Dr. Sims's recommendation, as timing the intake of collagen with Vitamin C can optimize results.
- Grass-Fed Source: The Momentous peptides are sourced from grass-fed collagen, ensuring a high-quality, clean product.
Matching Collagen Type to Your Goal
Dr. Sims explains that collagen isn't a one-size-fits-all supplement and different types serve different purposes in the body. She recommends a specific approach based on an individual's needs.
- For Ligaments and Tendons: To provide the necessary building blocks for ligaments and tendons, Dr. Sims suggests Type I and III collagen peptides. This helps improve the integrity and strength of these specific connective tissues.
- For Joint Cartilage: For preventing cartilage breakdown and supporting overall joint health, she recommends Native Type II collagen along with Type II peptides. This specific type targets the cartilage directly.
- Combining for Comprehensive Support: For maximum effect, Dr. Sims mentions the possibility of stacking or combining different types of collagen. For example, using a dose of collagen peptides along with some native collagen.
Strategic Dosing and Timing for Optimal Results
For female athletes, Dr. Sims advises on a strategic approach to using collagen supplements. The timing and combination of ingredients are key to promoting connective tissue recovery, decreasing pain, and improving resilience.
- Dosing: She suggests a daily dose that can range from 1 to 15 grams, depending on the form and specific goal. For peptides, a range of 1 to 10 grams is often cited, sometimes paired with native collagen.
- Timing with Resistance Training: For athletes, the timing is crucial. She states that collagen has an anabolic effect when taken with food post-workout. Specifically, ingesting collagen with Vitamin C before a resistance training session can be ideal for enhancing connective tissue synthesis.
- Pairing with Vitamin C: The importance of Vitamin C cannot be overstated, as it is essential for the body to synthesize new collagen effectively.
Why a Targeted Approach Matters for Female Athletes
Dr. Sims's recommendations are tailored to the unique physiology of women, whose connective tissue and hormonal fluctuations impact performance and recovery. Her approach helps female athletes build resilience and reduce the risk of injury over their lifespan. Supplementing with the right collagen, paired with specific training and nutrition strategies, helps mitigate the age-related decline in collagen production, which starts as early as our mid-20s. For more insights into female athlete nutrition, visit her website.
Comparison of Collagen Supplement Types (Based on Dr. Sims's Advice)
| Feature | Collagen Peptides (Hydrolyzed) | Native Type II Collagen |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Provides building blocks for tendons, ligaments, and skin. | Triggers an immune response to reduce cartilage degradation. |
| Absorption | Smaller, broken-down molecules for easier gut absorption. | Full-length molecule, not absorbed but acts via immune pathways. |
| Primary Goal | Supporting soft tissue integrity, skin, hair, and nails. | Preventing cartilage breakdown and supporting joints. |
| Recommended Dose | 1–10 grams, often combined with native type. | 10 grams, can be paired with peptides. |
| Timing | Best taken with Vitamin C, especially pre- or post-workout. | Can be taken alongside peptide supplementation. |
Key Considerations When Choosing Collagen
- Define Your Goal: Determine if you are targeting joints (Native Type II) or ligaments, tendons, and skin (Type I and III peptides).
- Choose the Right Form: Select between peptides for bioavailability and native collagen for immune-mediated joint support, or stack them.
- Ensure Proper Formulation: Look for products that include Vitamin C to maximize absorption and synthesis.
- Consider Timing: Athletes should time their intake strategically around resistance training sessions.
- Prioritize Quality: Opt for high-quality, reputable brands like Momentous, which she explicitly recommends.
- Be Patient: Results may take several months to become noticeable, so consistency is key.
Conclusion
For active women and athletes, Dr. Stacy Sims's recommendation for collagen is not just about a single product but a strategic, science-driven approach. She recommends Momentous Collagen Peptides, which contain both collagen and the joint-specific FORTIGEL®, paired with Vitamin C. Her guidance emphasizes matching the collagen type to specific physiological goals, understanding the role of peptides versus native collagen, and timing intake with training for optimal synthesis and recovery. By following her tailored advice, women can effectively support joint health, enhance soft tissue resilience, and sustain performance over the long term.
