Almost everything can be made vegan today, but finding a good substitute for collagen supplements is surprisingly hard today. Although collagen is an essential protein source for our bodies and one we produce less as we age.
Do you follow a vegan diet? Dr. Tricia Pingel, a naturopathic physician, explains that collagen is 100 percent animal-based, contrary to popular belief. Fortunately, our bodies produce collagen when given proper nutrition, so vegan “collagen” products are ideal.
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How Is Vegan Collagen Made?
Plant-based ingredients can assist you in boosting your collagen production, even if you cannot find pure collagen that isn’t animal-derived. Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist, said, “Unlike animal-derived collagen, plant-based collagen supplements do not provide a direct source of collagen to the body.”
In addition to boosting collagen production in the body, these ingredients help to build collagen naturally. Bamboo is a rich source of silica and is known to stimulate collagen production, so Mouzon Wofford added it to Golde’s Coconut Collagen Boost.
How Effective Is Vegan Collagen?
Vegan collagen boosters provide the necessary building blocks for those whose bodies can make collagen naturally.
Dr. Pingel said, “A 2015 study revealed that the vitamin C found in vegan collagen sources significantly induced collagen synthesis in women of all ages, but especially in those under age 50.” The benefits of vegan collagen extend beyond collagen production because it is derived from healthful plant ingredients.
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Is Vegan Collagen As Effective As Animal Collagen?
However, vegan alternatives can also provide collagen directly from the source. Dr. Engelman said, “The body cannot obtain collagen directly from plant-based collagen supplements; they can only stimulate collagen production.”
There are, however, many other ways in which plant-based ingredients can be helpful. Animal-based foods can also cause inflammation, which you can avoid.
What Else Can Vegans Do Promote Collagen?
Many vegan collagen boosters are relatively easy to find and offer affordable prices, but you can also find the same collagen-building ingredients in foods. Pinger said, “Look for foods rich in vitamin C, including citrus fruits, berries, garlic, kale, bell peppers, papaya, tomatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and strawberries.”