Lean Optimum » Protein Powders » Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides (2024 Review) | Is It Effective or Not?

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides (2024 Review) | Is It Effective or Not?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and makes up the structural “glue” that holds skin, hair, nails, muscle, tendons, cartilage, and bones together. It can literally be found in each and every part of the body, from blood vessels to organs.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is a Collagen Powder made from grass-fed pasture-raised bovine hides.

What is Vital Collagen Peptides?

Vital Proteins Collagen

As a structural protein, collagen is like the scaffolding that keeps everything in place. If you are seeing or feeling the signs of aging, the chances are you are not producing as many collagen products as you once were.

Vital Proteins are filled with bio-available amino acids, or proteins, that help replenish and rebuild collagen structures within the body. This improves the elasticity and strength of your body’s organs.

The new formula contains added Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C increases the production of marine collagen, and further supports a healthy protein powder structure within the body.

These supplements are often added to diet regimens to improve overall health, but also to remedy some possible side effects, such as hair loss, which often occurs on a keto diet. With Vital Proteins being GMO, dairy, sugar, and gluten-free, it’s a great keto option for hair health.

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Taste & Flavors / Main Ingredients

This supplementation is available in an unflavored option, which is the preferred flavor for most users as it’s so versatile.

But, it’s also available in vanilla, mixed berry, dark chocolate blackberry, and blackberry collagen blast.

While the vanilla flavor can be used as a coffee creamer, personally, I’d stick with the unflavored version.

You never know if you’re going to like the flavor you choose and, being a pretty expensive product, it might just put you off completely.

Ingredients

The ingredient list is simple:

  • Bovine Hide Powder
  • Hyaluronic Acid (from sodium hyaluronate)
  • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

As mentioned, it’s GMO, gluten, sugar, and dairy-free. But the good news doesn’t stop there. It’s also kosher, Whole30 approved, and Paleo-friendly.

Supplement Facts

Each 20oz serving contains the following essential amino acids:

  • Histidine (144mg)
  • Isoleucine (271mg)
  • Leucine (524mg)
  • Lysine (614mg)
  • Methionine (108mg)
  • Phenylalanine (379mg)
  • Threonine (343mg)
  • Valine (433mg)

And the following non-essential (but still very beneficial) amino acids:

  • Alanine (1462mg)
  • Arginine (1517mg)
  • Aspartic Acid (1192mg)
  • Glutamic Acid (2239mg)
  • Glycine (3719mg)
  • Hydroxylysine (217mg)
  • Hydroxyproline (2058mg)
  • Proline (2076mg)
  • Serine (614mg)
  • Tyrosine (90mg)

While non-essential amino acids can be produced by the body, having them naturally available in a supplement does take the stress and strain off your body.

Each serving also contains 80mg Hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C, which improve the absorption and production of collagen to promote overall health and beauty.

Vital Protein Review. How to Use It

Vital Proteins Peptides come in powdered form. Containers are available in 10oz, 24oz, or 36oz. There are easy-to-use sachets that are pre-measured for convenience, or capsules available.

How to UseThe capsules are easy enough to use. Have six capsules twice a day. They are a good option if the idea of collagen makes you gag. Yes, “cow skin” is not necessarily appetizing. You can mix it with your favorite hot or cold liquids. The sachets are quite versatile, especially the unflavored ones. You can add them to smoothies, beverages, or even food.

The powder is supposed to mix well with any liquid, but I’ve found warm liquid works best, especially when you don’t have a blender handy.

With both the capsules and the powder, you need to make sure you get enough water in.

The collagen peptides need to dissolve in the water to be absorbed properly. At least one glass of water is needed for proper absorption.

What Are the Health Benefits of Collagen? Side Effects?

The benefits of collagen are numerous:

Anti-Aging

As you age, your hair becomes thinner, your nails more brittle, your skin less elastic, your bones more brittle, your muscles weaker, and your joints stiffer.

This is due to “DNA degeneration.” To cut a long story short, your DNA just isn’t what it used to be, and this is what causes aging.

What a lot of people don’t realize is that this aging process can be halted with the proper amino acids.

Anti Aging Benefits

DNA tells your body how to build proteins. If your body doesn’t have to use amino acids to build amino acids and you get it from a healthy source instead… Well, then your proteins will be less aged.

Because collagen is filled with these already-built building blocks, you will see noticeable improvements in skin elasticity, hair and nail strength, bone strength, muscle strength, and joint mobility.

Vital Proteins has all the essential and non-essential amino acids you need to improve your appearance and the way your body functions.

Improves Skin, Nails, and Hair

Even if you aren’t looking for a product that will keep you younger for longer, collagen can help improve the health of your skin, hair, and nails.

A lot of beauty products today are enhanced with collagen. The idea behind this is that the supplement improves skin elasticity and hair and nail strength. In fact, it may even aid in hair loss, a big bonus if you’re finding this a problem on a keto diet.

Improving skin elasticity is a huge benefit as not only does it minimize the effects of aging, but it can also noticeably reduce the appearance of cellulite, sagging skin, and sun damage.

Muscle Building

Vital Proteins’ collagen contains Alanine and Arginine, two of the essential proteins needed for proper muscle function and mass increase.

Alanine reduces the amount of lactic acid released during exercise, so you can exercise for longer without getting tired or being unable to move the next day.

Arginine helps build healthy muscle tissue and improves cardiovascular health. Gives your more muscles and better blood supply to those muscles.

Helps with Weight Loss

While all protein powders can help you lose weight by keeping you full for longer, not all of them are as good as collagen.

Other protein powders, such as whey, pea protein, or even collagen powders derived from marine sources, have a less complete amino acid profile.

Helps With Weight Loss

So, while they will all help stave off hunger cravings, grass-fed bovine collagen is unique in its ability to help you look even better as you are losing weight.

It strengthens your structural proteins, so the negative effects of weight loss such as sagging skin, increased appearance of cellulite, and more wrinkles are reduced.

Vital Proteins is also keto and paleo-friendly – which is a huge bonus to the dieting community. And because it’s carb and sugar-free, it’s safe on most diets.

Possible Side-Effects

Any collagen supplement, in general, can give you an upset stomach. It can also take away your appetite, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Oftentimes, we are hungry because we crave a certain nutrient. So it stands to reason that if you’re not hungry at all, well, then you’ve successfully fed yourself everything you need.

Some people have also said that collagen tastes funny or gross. This may be more psychological than anything, especially when it comes to the unflavored Collagen Peptides from Vital Proteins. It tastes like nothing.

Does Collagen Reduce Belly Fat?

Collagen is basically a type of connective tissue found in many parts of the body including the body’s connective tissues, muscles, blood vessels, and skin. This type of tissue is needed for maintaining an appropriate amount of flexibility, mobility, and strength, as well as preventing tissue damage, breakdown, and tissue shrinkage. In general, these functions are all associated with protecting and preserving muscle, bone, and tissue integrity. The role that collagen plays in the body is not limited to its role in these tissues, however. It has a direct effect on metabolism. The function of collagen in metabolism is related to the fact that it is essential for bone building, bone repair, the formation of blood vessels, smooth muscle control and contraction, and immune system function. The reduction of collagen that occurs with aging is thought to have a number of causes.

Several of them, such as lack of exercise, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and loss of muscle and connective tissue, may contribute to the breakdown of collagen and subsequent accumulation of abdominal fat. A clinical study of people over the age of 60 demonstrated that this loss in collagen is actually associated with weight gain and decreased metabolism. As I stated above, the use of collagen supplements to reduce belly fat is not supported by clinical studies. It is possible that it may have some benefit in specific groups. Studies show that people who are lactose-intolerant can benefit from taking a gel collagen supplement as a result of its effect on gut health.

Do Collagen Peptides Actually Work?

If you’re looking for an extra boost in the most nourishing way possible, collagen peptides are the answer. Collagen peptides are a type of collagen, a protein made up of long amino acids, and it’s naturally found in skin, hair, nails, and all kinds of other products we tend to rely on. They can be found in supplements and foods, or you can easily buy powders or capsules. According to Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, a celebrity dermatologist and author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin.

They are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and replenish skin cells by binding to proteins within the skin that are missing. They also work to keep skin elastic, hydrated, and plump. It’s like a happy band-aid: A big bandage provides relief from irritation and provides full support, but it won’t help the wound heal.

How Long Does it Take for Collagen Peptides to Work?

The peptides are obtained from either animals or plants and are bound to an inert carrier. The carrier is in turn placed in an ideal condition and circulated through the body. Once it gets into the bloodstream, it activates the protein. This activation of the protein will happen via the creation of activated receptor sites on the surface of the immune cells. The activated receptors help the cells identify and destroy harmful bacteria. Collagen peptides help in this process.

Important Regulatory Information. The FDA requires you to state on the label of each product that it is not intended for use in the treatment, diagnosis, cure, or prevention of any disease or disorder. Products that have a section stating that they do not have this indication are classified as a Class II controlled substance. As the rules of the FDA state, all substances in the class II schedule are included in the Controlled Substances Act.

What Users Are Saying: Before and After Results

A lot of people are satisfied with the results they are achieving using Vital Proteins. From helping to stop hair loss on keto to healthy joints and improved mobility during exercise, the benefits of this collagen powder are worth it. Read my review of the best collagen powders here.

One satisfied customer, Healthy Bee, got more than she bargained for:

“I wanted to keep my joints healthy as I age, but this product has proven to do more! I probably started noticing the hair on top of my head after about a couple of months … seven months later, my ends are finally filling out the noticeable gaps I’ve had for about 5-6 years. Such a pleasant surprise!!!”

What Customers Are Saying

While another, KeriDawn, gives their two cents on why this is a superior product, worth the price:

“A lot of people are saying this is expensive compared to other brands, but this actually just contains more collagen and protein per serving.”

From personal experience, I can tell you that Vital Proteins has a very good product that helps with muscle strength and endurance when used in combination with a well-balanced diet.

My brother also tried it for a while during his weightlifting phase and really liked it as a post-workout supplement.

Do Collagen Powders Actually Work?

While almost all you ever read about collagen in the news are primarily concerned with its shelf life or whether you can eat them or even buy them in the United States, collagen is a very important part of your body. Collagen is the protein that surrounds all the body’s cells, gives them their firmness and elasticity, and helps to maintain their shape and structure. Without an adequate supply of collagen, your skin will sag and stiffen. You could be taken right out of the movie Mad Max with some poor choices in beauty products. So are collagen supplements worth the cost?

The health and well-being benefits of collagen supplementation have always been long touted by health authorities, but these benefits are mostly understood through animal studies and have never been directly verified in humans. This makes it all the more difficult to know how much of a difference they actually make. Even with the lack of evidence in humans, there’s still some truth to what the health authorities say.

How Long Before You See Results From Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides?

Men age at least ten years faster than women. Age also slows down collagen production. The key is to get your collagen levels up. You’ll need more collagen, which is the main ingredient in our body to maintain and strengthen your skin, joints, tendons, and even internal organs. Our body produces it naturally, but for your skin, joints, and tendons, it’s important to take a daily supplement. I’m not sure I know anyone who does not want to get healthier and maybe look younger. Many find the dietary supplement industry confusing, so I’ll explain why you should take the Vital Proteins collagen peptides. Here is a brief description of these substances. Collagen is the main ingredient in the body and we make it naturally, but if you need a little boost, here are the recommended daily doses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to Take Collagen Peptides Every Day?

Taking collagen peptides every day is generally considered safe and can have potential benefits for certain individuals. Collagen is a structural protein that plays a crucial role in the health of various tissues, including skin, bones, tendons, and joints. Collagen peptides are a form of collagen that has been hydrolyzed into smaller peptides, making them easier to absorb and utilize by the body.

Regular consumption of collagen peptides may support skin health, improve joint function, promote bone strength, and aid in muscle recovery. Collagen peptides are rich in amino acids, particularly glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are essential building blocks for collagen production.

However, it’s important to note that individual responses may vary, and the effectiveness of collagen supplementation can depend on factors such as age, overall diet, lifestyle, and existing health conditions. Additionally, collagen peptides should not be considered a substitute for a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients.

It is advisable to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before incorporating collagen peptides into your daily routine. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and help determine if collagen supplementation is suitable for you.

Who Should Not Take Collagen?

While collagen supplementation is generally safe for most individuals, there are some specific cases where caution should be exercised or collagen should be avoided.

Individuals who have allergies or sensitivities to collagen sources, such as bovine or marine collagen, should refrain from taking collagen supplements to prevent potential allergic reactions.

Furthermore, individuals with specific medical conditions, such as kidney problems or disorders related to calcium metabolism, should consult with their healthcare professional before starting collagen supplementation. Collagen peptides contain certain amino acids that can affect these conditions, and personalized guidance is essential.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also seek medical advice before taking collagen supplements, as there is limited research on the safety of collagen supplementation during these periods.

Additionally, individuals taking medications or with underlying health conditions should consult with their healthcare provider to ensure that collagen supplementation does not interfere with their medication efficacy or exacerbate their condition.

As with any dietary supplement, it is always advisable to speak with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before starting collagen supplementation, especially if you have any specific health concerns or medical conditions. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances and help determine if collagen supplementation is appropriate for you.

What Vitamins Should You Not Take With Collagen?

The interaction between collagen supplements and certain vitamins should be considered to maximize their effectiveness and avoid potential interference with nutrient absorption. While collagen is often taken to support skin, joint, and bone health, here are some key vitamins to be mindful of when taking collagen:

  1. Calcium: Collagen and calcium are both essential for bone health, and they can be taken together. However, high doses of calcium can compete with magnesium and zinc for absorption in the digestive tract. Since magnesium and zinc are vital for collagen synthesis and overall health, excessive calcium supplementation could potentially interfere with these processes. It’s best to maintain a balanced intake of these minerals.
  2. Vitamin C is crucial for collagen production, as it plays a pivotal role in the hydroxylation of collagen’s proline and lysine amino acids. It enhances collagen synthesis and stability. When taking collagen supplements, it is advisable to ensure an adequate intake of vitamin C either through diet or supplementation to support collagen formation effectively.
  3. Biotin (Vitamin B7)  is often associated with promoting healthy skin, hair, and nails. While there is no direct evidence of biotin interfering with collagen, it is safe to take them together. Biotin may even complement collagen’s potential benefits by promoting overall skin health.
  4. Vitamin D is important for bone health and plays a role in calcium absorption. Since collagen supplements may indirectly support bone health, there’s no known conflict with vitamin D. In fact, they can complement each other in maintaining strong bones and overall well-being.
  5. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the body but should not interfere with collagen supplementation. These two can be taken together without significant interactions.
  6. Vitamin E an antioxidant, may support skin health and protect collagen from oxidative damage. Combining vitamin E with collagen can be beneficial for overall skin wellness.

It’s essential to maintain a balanced and varied diet and consider the intake of these vitamins through natural food sources alongside supplementation. If you have concerns about potential interactions between collagen and specific vitamins or any other dietary supplements, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs and help you create a comprehensive and effective supplementation plan while ensuring overall nutrient compatibility and balance.

Does Jennifer Aniston Really Use Vital Collagen?

While celebrities like Jennifer Aniston may endorse certain products or brands, it’s essential to critically evaluate the evidence behind the claims.

Collagen supplements, such as Vital Collagen, have gained popularity in recent years due to their purported benefits for skin health, joint function, and overall well-being. Collagen is a protein that serves as a major component of connective tissues in the body, including skin, bones, and joints. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to changes in skin elasticity, joint stiffness, and other age-related issues.

While some studies suggest that collagen supplements may offer benefits such as improved skin hydration, reduced joint pain, and enhanced muscle mass, the evidence is not yet conclusive. The effectiveness of collagen supplements can vary depending on factors such as dosage, formulation, and individual response.

It’s also important to note that collagen supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way as pharmaceutical drugs. Therefore, the quality and purity of collagen products can vary between brands.

Ultimately, whether Jennifer Aniston or any other celebrity uses Vital Collagen or similar supplements is speculative and not supported by scientific evidence. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, including collagen supplements. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can also support overall skin and joint health, alongside other lifestyle factors such as regular exercise and adequate hydration.

Where To Buy

DO NOT ORDER THIS OFF AMAZON!

Wholefoods Store

I don’t know what the story is, but the products from Amazon are below standard.

Whether this is due to poor storage or an actual fake supplier is unclear, but be safe and rather get it from a physical store where you can take it back if you aren’t satisfied with the quality.

Costco, Wholefoods and Walmart all stock Vital Proteins products.

If your specific store doesn’t have it, ask them if they can order it for you.

Final Thoughts. Alternatives?

Vital Proteins is a great product. It does what it promises and more. I’m not trying to oversell it, but it really is a good supplemental option for almost all diets.

There are, however, two other products that you can also try. That would be Sports Research Collagen Peptides or Perfect Keto Collagen Powder.

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All three of these products are of top quality. But, after trying them all for myself, I personally found Perfect Keto to work best. It’s just got that something extra that adds more jump to my step and luster to my skin.

I’m one of those unlucky people that lost the genetic lottery. I have very little natural skin elasticity, and out of the three top collagen powders, Perfect Keto works the best for me.

Because of this, I’m giving you the opportunity to try my favorite collagen powder (at 10% off, which gives you all of the benefits but at a lower cost than either of the other top 2 collagen supplements on the market.