What Collagen Does Kelly Holmes Take?
Dame Kelly Holmes, a celebrated athlete known for her success on the track, continues to inspire many through her advocacy for health and fitness, especially as she navigates menopause. Her personal experience with joint pain, which became pronounced enough to hinder her exercise routine, led her to seek out effective supplements. After exploring her options, she became an ambassador for the UK-based wellness company Ancient + Brave, and a key advocate for their joint-specific collagen product.
Ancient + Brave Noble Collagen: An In-Depth Look
The specific product Kelly Holmes takes is Ancient + Brave's Noble Collagen, a targeted supplement designed to address joint health and mobility. Unlike general collagen products, which often focus on skin, hair, and nail health, Noble Collagen is formulated with a precise blend of ingredients to support cartilage and joint function. It is supplied as a convenient one-a-day capsule, simplifying daily supplementation.
The Science Behind Noble Collagen
The efficacy of Noble Collagen lies in its key components, which work synergistically to support joint health:
- Type II Collagen: This is the primary protein found in cartilage, the flexible connective tissue that cushions your joints. Noble Collagen utilizes a specialized, undenatured form of Type II collagen (UC-II), which is extracted from chicken sternum cartilage. Studies on UC-II have demonstrated its effectiveness in supporting joint function, comfort, and mobility. Rather than acting as a building block like hydrolyzed collagen, it works through a mechanism of "oral tolerance," which helps regulate the immune response to worn-out cartilage in the joints.
- Boswellia Serrata: An ancient anti-inflammatory botanical, boswellia has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for joint care. Its inclusion in Noble Collagen helps to reduce inflammation and discomfort, offering a traditional yet effective complement to the Type II collagen.
- Vitamin C and Manganese: These are critical cofactors for the body's own production of collagen and the health of connective tissue. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, while manganese supports the function of connective tissues.
Comparing Collagen Types for Joint Health
When choosing a collagen supplement, it's important to differentiate between products aimed at different parts of the body. Here is a comparison of Noble Collagen with more general-purpose collagen supplements:
| Feature | Ancient + Brave Noble Collagen | Standard Hydrolyzed Collagen (Types I & III) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Collagen Type | Type II (Undenatured UC-II) | Type I and Type III |
| Target Area | Specific focus on joint cartilage and mobility | General support for skin, hair, nails, and bones |
| Mechanism of Action | Modulates the immune response for joint comfort (Oral Tolerance) | Provides building blocks (amino acids) for the body's own collagen synthesis |
| Key Ingredients | Type II Collagen, Boswellia Serrata, Vitamin C, Manganese | Hydrolyzed collagen peptides, often with Vitamin C |
| Best For | Athletes, individuals with joint pain, those seeking cartilage support | Overall beauty and wellness, improving skin elasticity, strengthening hair and nails |
| Format | Daily capsule | Powder mixed into drinks or food |
How to Choose the Right Collagen for You
Kelly Holmes's choice of a targeted supplement highlights the importance of matching your health goals with the right product. If your priority is supporting joint health due to athletic stress or age-related discomfort, a supplement featuring Type II collagen like Noble Collagen is highly relevant. If you are focused on improving skin elasticity and general wellness, a hydrolyzed Type I and III collagen powder might be more appropriate.
What are the Different Ways to Take Collagen?
Beyond the specific type of collagen, the format in which you take it can also influence your routine and experience. Options range from powders to capsules, and even flavoured shots.
- Capsules: As with Kelly Holmes's preferred method, capsules offer a convenient, pre-dosed option for consistent, daily intake.
- Powders: Versatile and easily mixed into coffee, smoothies, or water, powders are a popular choice. They can come in unflavoured or flavoured varieties.
- Shots/Liquids: Liquid supplements provide a fast and easy way to consume collagen, often pre-mixed for convenience.
Ultimately, the best approach is to identify your specific health needs and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable collagen type, format, and dosage for your individual circumstances. As Kelly Holmes herself learned, understanding the nuances of different supplements is key to achieving your wellness goals.
Conclusion
Dame Kelly Holmes takes Ancient + Brave's Noble Collagen, a Type II collagen capsule specifically formulated for joint health and mobility. Her endorsement stems from her personal experience using the product to manage joint pain and support her active lifestyle during perimenopause. The supplement’s targeted blend of undenatured Type II collagen, anti-inflammatory Boswellia Serrata, Vitamin C, and Manganese provides a comprehensive approach to joint care, setting it apart from general-purpose collagen products. For those looking to support joint resilience, this product is a testament to the benefits of selecting a supplement designed for a specific need, an important lesson for anyone considering adding collagen to their daily regimen. For more information on Ancient + Brave products, you can visit their official website at ancientandbrave.earth.
