Edible collagen has been described as the holy grail for glow - and with good reason. Beginning in our 20s, we rapidly lose our natural supply of collagen, which is responsible for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and strength. When this natural supply depletes, we see the signs of ageing set in: wrinkles, fine lines, moisture loss and a change in skin appearance.
As we get older, it becomes increasingly important to establish nourishing daily wellness rituals. A growing body of clinical research shows that incorporating edible collagen into your routine dramatically improves skin architecture, hydration and texture while reducing wrinkles in a matter of weeks. Collagen loading is the latest trend to sweep the wellness world. It takes the science-backed beauty benefits of edible collagen and puts them into overdrive. Here, we explain everything you need to know about collagen loading.
What are the beauty benefits of collagen and what happens when it’s depleted?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It makes up the fibres of skin, tendons, bones, cartilage and all other connective tissue, representing 30% of the body’s dry weight. Collagen has many important functions in overall health, but when it comes to beauty, collagen provides the skin with structure and is responsible for skin strength and elasticity. The importance of collagen is linked to the role it plays, and also its sheer abundance. In young skin, collagen makes up 80% of the skin’s dermal layer.
As we get older, we break down collagen faster than we can replace it. Collagen degradation leads to wrinkles and signs of ageing; our skin becomes dry, dull and dehydrated.
What is collagen loading and how do I know if it’s right for me?
To prevent or address collagen deficiency, we must top up the body’s natural supply lost through ageing. Edible collagen does just that - providing the building blocks for the formation of collagen and stimulating the production of new collagen. Most people report seeing the benefits of edible collagen within a few weeks, and most clinical trials run for around 12 weeks.
The concept of collagen loading was introduced to make this process even faster and more efficient. Collagen loading involves drastically increasing your daily dose of edible collagen over a short period of time. Collagen loading is an excellent strategy for anyone wanting to experience the beautifying benefits of collagen with minimum wait time. We often recommend it to those taking collagen for the first time and to anyone planning for a special event such as a wedding.
How do I try collagen loading and what type of collagen should I use?
While we can add collagen-rich foods - such as bone broth - into our diet, the amount of collagen in these foods will not adequately meet our daily needs. That’s why it’s important to turn to a high quality and all-natural source of supplementation. By Beth formulations contain 100% Australian bovine collagen sourced from pasture-raised and grass-fed cattle, providing collagen in a high dose which is easily absorbed and distributed throughout the body. We also use antioxidant-charged native Australian botanicals, which contain potent bioactive properties that play a protective role against oxidative stress, inflammation, and the immune system.
To try collagen loading, we suggest adding 1 teaspoon of your favourite By Beth formula to your drink of choice (250ml) and taking 4-5 serves per day for 2-3 weeks. During this window, your levels of collagen will skyrocket and you will experience glowing skin, glossy hair and stronger nails. After this period, we recommend reverting to our standard daily dosage (1 teaspoon in 250ml liquid, 3-4 serves per day) for ongoing maintenance and support.
Is collagen loading safe?
Collagen is generally considered to be a safe, effective and nontoxic daily supplement. Always ensure you are using the best supplement available. At By Beth, we feel comfortable having complete visibility over our supply chain. Our bovine collagen is sourced locally and the cows are managed according to Australia’s regulations. They are all deemed fit for human consumption and free from BSE, hormones, antibiotics, toxins and heavy metals. When you increase the body’s supply of collagen, you’re able to experience the benefits it has to offer. However, it is best to check off your personal collagen loading dose with a medical professional as everyone is different. If your aim is to rapidly boost your body’s collagen supply, collagen loading with a high quality and all-natural supplement will answer your needs.