Vital Proteins offers a range of collagen products, each designed for different health goals. The collagen types and their sources are crucial to the effectiveness of these products. Most products use hydrolyzed collagen peptides to increase absorption and bioavailability.
Key Collagen Types in Vital Proteins Products
Although the human body contains at least 28 different collagen types, Vital Proteins concentrates on the most beneficial types for supplementation: Type I, Type III, and Type II.
Type I and Type III: The Most Common
Types I and III are frequently combined in supplements. They are the most abundant collagen types in the body, particularly in connective tissues, skin, tendons, organs, and bones.
- Type I Collagen: The most prevalent type supports the structure of skin, hair, nails, bones, and ligaments, providing tensile strength.
- Type III Collagen: Found with Type I in the skin, muscles, and blood vessels, this type supports elasticity and structure.
Vital Proteins' popular products, like Collagen Peptides and Marine Collagen, primarily contain both Type I and Type III collagen.
Type II: For Joint Support
Type II collagen is the main component of cartilage, providing cushioning for the joints. Supplements with Type II collagen typically promote joint health and mobility.
- Type II Collagen: Found in products like Vital Proteins' Cartilage Collagen. This type is derived from bovine or chicken cartilage and supports the skeletal system and joint recovery.
Sources of Vital Proteins Collagen
Vital Proteins is transparent about its sourcing, primarily using bovine and marine sources, depending on the product.
Bovine-Sourced Collagen
Vital Proteins' Collagen Peptides (the blue tub) is derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hides. This source provides high amounts of Type I and Type III collagen peptides.
Marine-Sourced Collagen
Marine Collagen from Vital Proteins comes from the scales of non-GMO, wild-caught white fish, such as cod, from the waters off Alaska. Marine collagen is also a source of Types I and III.
Other Sources
Some specialized Vital Proteins products, such as those made for joint support, might contain chicken collagen (Type II) or proprietary ingredients like VERISOL®, which is also bovine-sourced but processed to target skin cells.
Hydrolysis: Improving Absorption
Most Vital Proteins products use hydrolyzed collagen.
Hydrolysis is a manufacturing process that breaks down collagen protein into smaller protein chains called peptides. These smaller peptides are easier for the body to digest, absorb, and synthesize compared to unhydrolyzed collagen, increasing bioavailability.
Comparison of Vital Proteins Products
The following table compares the collagen types and sources in some of Vital Proteins' top products.
| Product | Primary Collagen Types | Source | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collagen Peptides (Blue Tub) | Type I, Type III | Grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hide | Skin hydration, hair/nail strength, bone & joint support |
| Marine Collagen | Type I, Type III | Wild-caught white fish scales (cod) | Supports skin elasticity, hair/nail health |
| Cartilage Collagen | Type II | Bovine cartilage | Supports joint health and cartilage structure |
| Beef Gelatin | Type I, Type III | Bovine hide | Aids digestion, thickens liquids (partially hydrolyzed) |
Conclusion
Vital Proteins offers collagen peptides that are carefully sourced and hydrolyzed. The main products contain Types I and III collagen from bovine or marine sources, while specialized products feature Type II for joint support. Hydrolyzed collagen enhances digestibility and bioavailability, supporting overall wellness from skin and hair to bones and joints. Choosing the right product depends on individual dietary needs and health goals.
