In case you missed it, collagen is making a comeback. You’ve probably seen it on social media, promoted by influencers, and even popping up in your local supermarket. But is it all hype? Or is collagen truly the glorified protein of sustained youth?
If you’re not familiar with collagen, here’s a quick overview. Collagen is the most abundant form of protein found in the body. It plays a crucial role in structural support for the skin, joints, and muscles. Unfortunately, from our early 20’s our naturally produced collagen levels decrease, leaving the skin more prone to wrinkles and fine lines and joints to discomfort. While eating protein-rich foods can help synthesize collagen, simply eating protein-rich foods isn’t always enough. Cue the rise of collagen supplements.
With a ton of brands to choose from, finding your favourite can be confusing and requires a little research. The most important decision is the type of collagen you want to have, with collagen being sourced from cows, pigs, or fish. In New Zealand you’ll generally find either bovine (from the cow hide) or marine (from fish skin, bones or scales) used. If you’re after faster results, then marine collagen is for you as it’s absorbed 1.5 times faster than bovine collagen. A type 1 collagen is great for skin, hair and nail health, with its smaller particle size making it easier for your body to digest and absorb. Marine is also the more environmentally friendly choice, with most marine powders sustainably sourced, compared to the intensive process involved in producing bovine collagen.
If you’re looking to kick start the health of your hair, skin and nails, then we may have found the brand for you. Milla Collagen is a relative newcomer to the exploding collagen scene, made right here in New Zealand, by husband and wife team, Anna and Michael. Packed into 100% recyclable glass jars, Milla boasts a range of products that makes including collagen into your daily routine easy. Their focus on using clean and natural ingredients means they only use sustainably sourced marine collagen from France, made from the scales of fish. The powder itself is hydrolysed, making it easily absorbed, and has the addition of vitamin c too, something your body cannot produce collagen without.
With no fillers or fake flavours, you can rest assured everything in Milla’s range is carefully considered. We’re in love with Milla’s organic cocoa collagen creamer and reckon it might just be the best way to get your collagen fix! Made with 10g of marine collagen per serve, coconut milk powder and fair-trade organic cocoa powder, it makes the perfect mocha, shake or sneaky hot chocolate.
While collagen research is still evolving, judging by the meaningful results many experience, taking collagen could just be the new years resolution for 2021.
You can view the Milla Collagen range for yourself, online at www.millacollagen.com.