Bone broth vs marine collagen supplements | Which option is more ideal for you?

As we get older, we often become more conscious of the nutrients we put into our body and how our diets can have a direct impact on health and beauty.

Marine collagen and bone broth are both often used for their benefits in health and wellness, and each has its own unique key uses. Here, we explain more about their potential benefits and how they compare to each other.

What is marine collagen, and what are the key benefits of taking it as a supplement?

Collagen provides structural support for tissues in our bodies, and makes up 70% of our skin, with Type 1 collagen making up 80-90% of all collagen in our bodies. Glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline make up the collagen structure. Our bodies produce collagen naturally until we reach age 30.

Hydrolysis of collagen is necessary for easier absorption into the body, breaking down collagen into absorbable smaller chains of amino acids. Hydrolysed collagen is known as collagen peptides.

Marine collagen is a type 1 hydrolysed collagen, and is one of the most common types of collagen used in the health and beauty industry – with its benefits including:

• Reduces signs of ageing - Ongoing research shows that marine collagen can maintain the rigidity of tissues and organs, thus minimising that aged look. Limited production of collagen and minimal contribution from a poor diet leaves collagen supplements to normalise the levels in the body.
• Reduces wrinkles - Older skin, or skin affected by UV rays and other environmental factors, looks aged and lacklustre. Collagen is a significant part of the dermis layer of the skin. By supplementing with marine collagen, you restore the collagen necessary to maintain skin elasticity.
• Moisturises skin - By restoring collagen levels in the dermis layer of the skin, the marine supplement may help to reduce skin dryness.
• Improves hair and nail health - Collagen may help to keep a stronger structure in our hair and nails, thus giving fuller hair and less brittle nails.

Who is marine collagen suitable for?

Marine collagen is suitable for individuals who are over the age of 18 years, and are interested in improving the appearance of their hair, skin and nails. Marine collagen is also suitable for individuals who might have concerns about taking bovine collagen or collagen derived from pigs.

People who eat fish but don’t consume any other animal products may also find that marine collagen is an ideal type of collagen for them.

What ingredients are in bone broth?

Bone broth is a liquid derived from boiling animal bones and connective tissue. You can also add this liquid, also called stock, to soups and stews. For example, chicken bone broth is used in various dishes that need simmering.

Bone broth contains small amounts of essential nutrients, like proteins and fat. Adding vegetables to simmering broth helps enhance its nutritional value.

The following method can be used to make bone broth:

• Add in bones from chicken or beef, as preferred.
• Cover the bones with water generously, then add some salt to taste.
• You can add a little apple cider vinegar to break down bones.
• Let it simmer for at least two hours before straining the broth.

Why should you take bone broth?

Bone broth contains other amino acids such as arginine and glutamine that may help to boost immune system function. The appeal of bone broth is also its dietary application and simplicity of production.

Bone broth hydrates the body, since it is mostly water. The minerals in bone broth can help the body in absorbing water. Therefore, bone broth will supply water and encourage you to take more water.

Is bone broth ideal for you?

Bone broth contains a variety of nutrients, depending on the ingredients used. Ideally, aim for a mixture of beef, chicken, and lamb bones to enjoy a healthier cocktail. Bone broth contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and trace minerals necessary for building strong bones.

While bone broth may be beneficial for bone and joint support, supplements in the market such as marine collagen specifically focus on your skin, hair, and nails. Bone broth doesn’t contain type 1 collagen peptides, which work best for your beauty needs. Instead, it typically contains type 2 collagen.

What are the critical differences between marine collagen and bone broth?

A huge difference between bone broth and marine collagen supplements it that marine collagen is a type of hydrolysed collagen. In hydrolysed collagen, the amino acids have been broken down into peptides, which are much smaller and more easily absorbed into our bloodstream and supplied to our hair, skin, nails, joints, and more.

When choosing the best option for you, consider your key beauty or health concern. Marine collagen peptides can help to restore collagen function in the skin, and studies have shown that it can be effective against age- and exposure-related skin deterioration.