Marine Collagen and Bovine Collagen: Their Benefits and Difference

Australia is a popular tourist destination widely known for its scenic beauty and magnificent landscape. Furthermore, Australia’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world. Did you know that Australians prefer consuming nutritional supplements for their general health and well-being? According to an Australian study in 2016, 44.2 % of the study population took vitamin or mineral supplements, among which 50.4 % were women, and 37.8 % were men. Nowadays, collagen supplements are gaining popularity and taking the market by storm. Various online stores like Australian NaturalCare are offering a wide variety of collagen supplements. For those who don’t know about collagen, it is an excellent nutrient that helps provide essential amino acids which your modern diet might lack. Based on its source, the types of collagen are marine (fish) and bovine (cow). Have you considered the difference between these two and which could be better? Keep reading to know more about marine collagen and bovine collagen.

What is marine collagen?

Marine collagen is a dietary supplement derived from the skin, scales, and bones of fishes. Some marine collagen supplements are made using hydrolysis to extract collagen from fish. The hydrolysis process helps break down the collagen into smaller units or peptides for easy digestion and absorption. The smaller units of the collagen peptides can be dissolved in hot or cold liquids, making them a great addition to your smoothie, coffee, or oatmeal. Moreover, they are odourless and tasteless.

What are the benefits of marine collagen?

The best part about marine collagen is that it is sustainable and environment-friendly. It utilises the parts of the fish, which are usually thrown away. Below listed are some benefits of consuming this supplement.

1. It improves your skin health: Marine collagen intake helps increase the skin’s smoothness and firmness. Further, it repairs your skin cells and renews them naturally. Based on a study, women who consumed marine collagen had diminished facial lines and wrinkles, along with their moisture levels being well maintained.
2. It boosts your metabolism: Marine collagen boosts the metabolism in the body. It converts the essential nutrients in the body and adds lean muscle mass to your frame.
3. It promotes quality sleep: Due to the amino acid glycine in marine collagen, you can experience better quality sleep. According to research, the ingestion of glycine can provide a sufficient amount of sleep.

What is bovine collagen?

Bovine collagen is a natural protein present in the cows’ hides, cartilages, bones, and connective tissues. The bovine collagen in stores is made from the hides of cows. This collagen is similar to the natural collagen in your body. There are 18 amino acids in the bovine collagen. Among these, three play a major role in support of health. Glycine, proline and hydroxyproline are the amino acids that are essential for the building blocks of tendons and ligaments.

What are the benefits of bovine collagen?

Bovine collagen helps in the proper functioning of the body cells. Below listed are some of their benefits.

1. It supports digestion and heals the gut: An unhealthy diet and a lot of stress can damage the tissues that line your intestines resulting in a leaky gut. Consuming this collagen can help manage leaky gut since collagen is a component of the gut’s lining and connective tissue, 
2. It supports hair growth and nail health: According to a study, participants who consumed 2.4 grams of collagen peptides each day for 24 weeks experienced swift growth of nails. Another study showed that these supplements improved hair growth rate, thickness and volume.
3. It improves skin quality: A study showed that those who consumed bovine collagen had fewer facial lines and wrinkles. Hence, it can improve the quality of the skin.

What’s the difference between marine and bovine collagen?

The types of collagen contained in the supplements differentiate marine and bovine collagen. Bovine collagen mainly comprises Type I and Type III collagen, whereas marine collagen consists primarily of Type I collagen. Type I is best for the skin, nails, hair and bones. Type III promotes skin health and elasticity.

Irrespective of their source, collagen supplements are an excellent addition to your regular diet. Both marine and bovine collagen can be consumed together if you desire. These can be purchased in online stores like Australian NaturalCare or regular stores in your neighbourhood. Undoubtedly, the addition of these supplements will tremendously improve your overall health and general well-being.