Collagen peptides are the buzzword in health and beauty circles. Found in powders, capsules and drinks they promise to benefit skin, joints and more. But what are collagen peptides? How do they work? And why is fish derived collagen the top of the pile?
In this article we’ll delve into the science behind collagen peptides, their proven benefits and why marine collagen is the best.
What Are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen peptides also known as hydrolyzed collagen are small chains of amino acids created by breaking down larger collagen molecules. This hydrolysis process makes the collagen more digestible and absorbable in the small intestine.
Once absorbed these peptides stimulate the body’s own collagen producing cells such as fibroblasts (in skin), chondrocytes (in cartilage) and osteoblasts (in bone) to increase collagen synthesis and support tissue regeneration.
In simple terms collagen peptides are the building blocks that help your body rebuild what age and stress take away.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Collagen Peptides
Numerous peer-reviewed studies support the effectiveness of collagen peptides:
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Skin health: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology (Proksch et al., 2014) found that daily supplementation with 2.5g of collagen peptides for 8 weeks significantly improved skin elasticity and hydration in women aged 35–55.
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Joint pain: A study in Current Medical Research and Opinion (Clark et al., 2008) reported that athletes supplementing with collagen hydrolysate experienced less joint discomfort compared to the placebo group.
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Overall skin appearance: A 2021 meta-analysis in the International Journal of Dermatology concluded that collagen peptide intake led to improvements in skin moisture, elasticity, and dermal density.
These findings indicate that consistent use over time leads to measurable and visible benefits.
Key Benefits of Collagen Peptides
1. Skin Health and Appearance
Collagen is responsible for the structure and elasticity of the skin. As we age, natural collagen levels decline, leading to dryness, wrinkles, and sagging. Collagen peptides:
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Boost skin hydration
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Improve elasticity and firmness
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Reduce fine lines and signs of aging
2. Joint Health and Mobility
Collagen is essential for healthy cartilage, which cushions joints. Supplementing with peptides:
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Supports cartilage repair
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Helps reduce joint pain
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Improves overall joint function
According to a study in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage (2012), long-term collagen peptide supplementation helped reduce joint stiffness and improve mobility in people with osteoarthritis.
3. Muscle and Bone Support
Collagen peptides provide amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are crucial for muscle and bone repair. Research suggests they:
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Support bone mineral density
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Promote lean muscle mass when combined with strength training
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Aid in injury recovery
Why Fish Collagen Peptides Are Superior
Marine collagen peptides—especially those derived from fish—offer distinct advantages over bovine or porcine sources:
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Lower molecular weight: This leads to faster digestion and higher absorption rates.
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Rich in Type I collagen: The most abundant form in human skin, tendons, bones, and ligaments.
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Free from common allergens and contaminants: Particularly when sourced from fish.
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Sustainable production: Marine collagen often uses fish skins and scales that would otherwise go to waste.
A 2015 review in Marine Drugs emphasized the efficacy, safety, and absorption of fish collagen peptides, highlighting their potential for both skin and joint health.
Are Collagen Peptides Safe?
Yes. Collagen peptides are widely regarded as safe and well-tolerated, even at higher doses (up to 10g per day). They are non-toxic and do not typically cause adverse effects. When sourced responsibly, as with wild-caught fish, they are also free from hormones and antibiotics.
How to Use Collagen Peptides
Collagen peptides are tasteless and dissolve easily in hot or cold liquids. They can be added to:
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Water or juice
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Tea or coffee
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Smoothies or shakes
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Yogurt, soups, or oats
For best results, a daily dose of 5–10 grams is recommended, ideally taken with Vitamin C, which plays a key role in collagen synthesis.
The Ballstad Salmon Collagen Difference
When choosing a collagen supplement, quality, origin and clinical results matter. Ballstad Salmon Collagen stands out as a science backed, sustainably sourced marine collagen made in Norway.
Norwegian Origin: Proudly labelled Made in Norway, because Norway has the highest standards for purity, sustainability and quality.
Type I Collagen: Derived from pure salmon skin, our formula gives you well absorbed Type I collagen peptides that support skin structure.
Anti-Ageing & Skin Elasticity: Rich in essential amino acids (30% glycine) Ballstad Collagen reduces fine lines and improves skin firmness, it’s the perfect anti-ageing solution.
Clinically Tested: Studies show that regular collagen intake can increase skin hydration by up to 34.8% in 8 weeks, for a smoother more youthful look.
Clean & Sustainable: Responsibly harvested to protect marine ecosystems and no additives, fillers or artificial colours.
Total Body Support: In addition to glowing skin, Ballstad Collagen supports hair strength and joint flexibility, it’s full body benefits.
Whether you’re focused on beauty, movement or healthy ageing, Ballstad Salmon Collagen gives you clean effective nourishment from nature and backed by clinical science.
