How does collagen differ from whey?
There are quite a few notable differences and advantages to taking
collagen over whey:
- Collagen is derived from animal connective tissues, such as bones, skin, and cartilage, while whey protein is obtained from milk during the cheese-making process. Collagen is therefore dairy-free, making it an excellent alternative for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies who can't have whey.
- While whey contains all nine essential amino acids, Collagen is primarily composed of three amino acids: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Hydroxyproline is a unique amino acid crucial for collagen synthesis (creating new collagen) and Whey protein lacks hydroxyproline. This makes collagen supplementation particularly beneficial for supporting your joints, tendons, ligaments, bones and cartilage, while still having a positive impact on muscle recovery (a benefit more associated with whey). And, let's not forget the anti-aging/beauty benefits (skin, hair & nails) that come along side improved collagen synthesis.
- The same benefits of whey can easily be attained from common foods, including dairy, eggs, meat and fish. Collagen is harder to source from foods and you would need to be regularly eating nose to tail meats (skin and cartilage included), bone broth, sardines (bones included), or gelatin to be getting adequate collagen.
- Collagen (especially hydrolysed collagen) is easier to digest and absorb compared to whey protein, making it gentler on the stomach and suitable for individuals with digestive sensitivities. There's some research suggesting that collagen can even have a positive impact on the gut lining promoting better gut health.
Will this help me gain muscle and strength?
Collagen contains the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Collagen taken in combination with resistance training has shown to increase
muscle mass and performance while supporting the joints, cartilage and tendons that allow you lead an active lifestyle and engage in muscle strengthening
exercises without discomfort or injury. The recommended total daily intake of protein for the average person about 1.5 - 2g of protein/kg of bodyweight and
this is particularly important if you are looking to gain muscle. Our sachets can help you achieve this target without the addition of too many calories or
nasty ingredients.
How is collagen a protein?
Protein is often associated with food sources, yet in more technical terms, it refers to a category of molecules crucial for the structure, function, and
regulation of cells and tissues in living organisms. While found in certain foods, proteins also exist within various tissues and organs of the human body
and this is why it's important to consume them (to support certain functions in the body). Protein comes in different forms which are determined by the unique sequences of amino acids contained in that protein. For example the amino acid
profile in an animal based protein, like meat, varies from the amino acid profile found in a plant based protein, like chickpeas.The same principle
applies to proteins commonly associated with supplementation, such as whey,
casein, and pea protein. Collagen is simply another type of protein. It's worth noting that collagen contains quite a unique amino acid profile and with it being the most abundant protein in the human body (comprising 60-80% of our
connective and supportive tissues) it's vital we support our collagen stores.
Is your product halal?
Our collagen supplier holds the halal certificate, so effectively yes, however our specific product doesn't as we are yet to get it tested. Something we are working on.
What happens when my collagen levels decline?
• Increased risk of injury: A lack of collagen means lower
connective tissue integrity, leading to weaker joints and their surrounding tissues. These tissues are vital for structure and support putting you at a higher risk of tears, strains, sprains, osteoarthritis and tendinopathy.
• Joint Discomfort: Collagen is essential for maintaining
the health of your joints. A decline in collagen can lead to joint discomfort, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Muscle Weakness: Collagen contains amino acids that
support muscle repair and growth. A decline in collagen can affect your muscle
health and recovery after physical activity.
• Bone Health: Collagen provides structural support to your bones. A decrease in collagen may contribute to reduced bone density and an
increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
• Wrinkles and Sagging Skin: Collagen is a key component of
your skin's structure. Reduced collagen production can result in wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin, contributing to visible signs of ageing.
• Brittle Nails and Thinning Hair: Collagen plays a role in
maintaining the strength and health of your nails and hair. Without adequate collagen, you may experience brittle nails and thinning hair.
• Digestive Issues: Collagen can support the integrity of
your gut lining. A decrease in collagen can therefore contribute to digestive
issues, including leaky gut syndrome, which may lead to food sensitivities and
other digestive problems.
• Loss of mobility and flexibility: Collagen is responsible for the elasticity in various connective tissues, including tendons and
ligaments. Decreased collagen can result in reduced flexibility and range of motion in the joints.
• Overall Wellness: Collagen is not only about beauty, it's
about overall wellness. It plays a role in numerous bodily functions, and its decline can impact your general health and functionality.
How long do I need to take collagen for to experience the benefits?
The time it takes to experience the benefits can vary from person to person, and depends on the consistency of use and the benefits you are hoping to see. Generally, collagen takes about 8 weeks of consistent use to see its major benefits on skin health, joint pain relief, bone strengthening and gut health but you may start to see some benefits sooner especially around muscle tone and exercise recovery.
What are the benefits of taking collagen protein?
Collagen is well-known for its positive impact on skin health (improving skin hydration, reducing wrinkles and increasing collagen production), joints and bones, hair and nails, digestion and gut health (reduced bloating), increased muscle mass and fat loss.
How much protein does one sachet provide?
Each sachet contains 20 grams of easily digestible collagen. That’s equivalent to approximately 1 scoop of protein powder or 1 protein bar.
Is Ethos free from gluten / dairy / soy / sugar?
Yes. It is free from gluten, soy, dairy and sugar.
At what age should I start taking collagen?
While there's no specific age when everyone should start taking collagen supplements, it's generally beneficial to consider collagen supplementation as you get older, typically starting in your late 20s or early 30s and beyond. Here are some factors to consider: Age: Collagen production starts to decline
in your mid to late 20s, and this decline continues as you age. By your 30s and 40s, you may notice changes in skin elasticity and joint health.
Will protein make me bulky?
Protein itself won't make you bulky in the sense of gaining excess muscle
mass or body fat unless your overall diet and exercise regimen are designed for
that purpose.
Here's what you need to know:
Muscle Growth: Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth. When you engage in strength training or resistance exercises, your muscles experience tiny tears, and protein helps repair and build them back stronger. If you're actively trying to gain muscle mass through weightlifting or similar activities, consuming enough protein is crucial.
Bulking Requires More: To significantly bulk up with muscle, individuals often need to consume more calories than they burn (a caloric surplus). This typically involves not only higher protein intake but also an increase in overall calorie consumption. Additionally, it often requires targeted strength training workouts designed for muscle hypertrophy (muscle growth).
Lean Body Composition: For most people, consuming an adequate amount of protein, combined with regular exercise (including strength training), helps maintain a lean and healthy body composition. Protein can support muscle maintenance and repair, helping you achieve a toned, fit appearance without excessive bulk.
In summary, consuming protein alone won't make you bulky in the sense of becoming overly muscular or gaining excessive body fat. Gaining significant
muscle mass typically requires a targeted approach, including a caloric surplus and specific strength training routines. For most people, incorporating an
appropriate amount of protein into a balanced diet supports a healthy and lean body composition.
Where is your collagen from?
It is grass fed bovine collagen from within the European Union.
Can pregnant or breastfeeding individuals use Ethos?
Taking collagen during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be absolutely fine,
but we always advise you consult with your professional healthcare provider before introducing any new dietary supplements into your routine.
Does protein damage kidneys?
There is no evidence to support the claim that a high protein intake causes kidney damage in healthy individuals. However, individuals with pre-existing
kidney conditions may need to moderate protein intake under medical guidance.
Will this help me lose fat?
Yes - Protein in general can be beneficial for fat loss for several
reasons:
- Increases satiety keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
- Preserves lean muscle mass during a calorie deficit (more muscle mass = higher metabolism).
- Higher Thermogenic effect - the body requires more energy (calories) to digest and metabolise protein resulting in a higher daily calorie burn.
- Helps stabilise blood sugar and prevents rapid spikes and crashes in energy (This can lead to better control over cravings).
How many sachets can I have? Is it safe to take to everyday?
Our collagen protein supplement is designed for daily use and this is encouraged to see maximum benefits. We recommend up to 3 sachets a day contributing to 60 grams of protein which is generally considered safe but we do recommend taking this supplement as part of a balanced diet and it should
not be your only source of protein.
What makes your collagen different to other brands?
- Higher collagen protein content
- Better price per gram of collagen
- Superior taste
What type of collagen do you use?
We use Hydrolysed Bovine collagen protein (also known as collagen peptides). This is a collagen that is derived from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of cows then put through the process of hydrolysis to break it down into
smaller, more digestible fragments, that can be efficiently absorbed and
utilised by the body. Bovine collagen is rich in type I and type III collagen, which are the most abundant types of collagen in the human body.
Why bovine collagen instead of marine collagen?
Similarity to Human Collagen: Bovine collagen closely resembles human collagen in its composition. This similarity makes it easier for our bodies to absorb and distribute. Think of it this way: we share more genetic and physical similarities with mammals like cows than with less complex vertebrates like fish. So, when selecting nutrients, choosing the more similar option makes sense.
Bioavailability: Collagen consists of amino acids, primarily glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and alanine, forming a triple helix structure. Bovine collagen's triple helix is resistant to enzyme breakdown in the gut, leading to higher bioavailability.
Amino Acid Content: Bovine collagen contains 14% more proline and 41% more hydroxyproline than marine collagen. These amino acids are vital for collagen's stability and strength.
Muscle & Joint Recovery: Bovine collagen boasts rich type 1 and type 3 collagen content, surpassing even marine collagen in type 2 collagen levels. It's the top choice for those aiming to boost athletic performance and aid muscle and joint recovery.
Bone Health: Bovine collagen brings extra benefits to bone health. As a major source of gelatin (accounting for 23.1% of global production), it supports bone density and helps manage osteoarthritis.
Digestion: Bovine collagen's slower breakdown, compared to marine collagen's smaller molecules, is gentler on your digestive system. This gradual release of amino acids keeps you feeling full for longer.
What is hydrolysed collagen?
In its natural form, collagen exists as a lengthy chain of individual peptides that the body struggles to absorb. To enhance absorption, we undergo a 'hydrolysis' process, breaking it down into smaller, more easily absorbable
molecules.
Our liquid collagen has up to 95% absorption, a far greater rate than capsules or powders.
I thought 8,000mg was the most collagen your body could absorb at one time?
2,500mg (2.5g) - Benefits skin, hair, nails & helps reduce cellulite.
5,000mg (5g) - Benefits bone mineral density & strength.
10,000mg (10g) - Benefits joint pain & osteoarthritis.
More than 15,000mg (15g) - Benefits gut health such as reducing IBS & bloating. Benefits muscle building/recovery.
When is the best time to take Ethos?
Ethos can really be taken anytime of day to help boost your overall protein
intake and reduce protein anxiety if you're struggling to get enough protein from your meals.But if you are looking for a specific result like kick starting the recovery process, then supplementing post workout would be beneficial. Or, if you’re recovering from a musculoskeletal injury like a sprain or tear, research suggests taking collagen 45 - 60 mins pre workout or rehab session could be really beneficial for driving the amino acids to the site of injury
for optimised repair.
Is your product vegan friendly?
Our collagen gel is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. It uses bovine collagen derived from EU cattle. Currently, it is not possible to extract collagen from plant-based sources however we are endeavouring to bring you suitable vegan option as soon as we can.
Is your product cruelty-free and free from harmful chemicals?
Yes - we use high quality Collagen sourced from EU Grass-Fed Cattle. Our sachets are naturally flavoured and contain minimal added ingredients.
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