When Should I Take Collagen Supplements, in the Morning or at Night?

If you're one of the many individuals interested in adding collagen powder to your diet, it's essential to understand that how you use the supplement is as important as which one you choose to take. Knowing the best time to take collagen peptides and other tips can help you get the most possible benefits from the powder.

First Off, What Are Collagen Peptides?

Collagen peptides are the building blocks of the protein collagen. Peptides formed out of amino acids combine to create long peptide chains that form important tissues in the body. Collagen is a primary component in the connective tissue that insulates your joints and your bones, muscles, and blood. It also makes up 75 percent of your skin. All in all, about 33 percent of your body is made of collagen.

What Are the Benefits of Collagen?

The potential benefits of collagen include:

• Minimizes signs of aging. Boosting collagen levels can help to increase skin elasticity and improve skin-cell hydration, making fine lines and wrinkles less apparent.
• Stronger muscles and bones. Supporting collagen levels in your body can help keep your muscles and bones functioning correctly, which is particularly important as you age.
• Joint health. There is scientific evidence suggesting that increased collagen levels can help to support the production of cartilage. This may ease inflammation and discomfort associated with arthritis and promote overall healthier joints.

What Types of Collagen Supplements Are Available?

Collagen is found in some foods, but it can be challenging to consume enough collagen through diet alone to make a real impact on health. As a result, many individuals choose to take collagen supplements. There are two main types of supplements: pills and powders. With a powder, you mix the supplement with a beverage of your choosing or add it to the blender with other ingredients to enjoy a smoothie. Not only does this make taking collagen more pleasant, but it also may help to increase effectiveness. That's because your body typically has an easier time absorbing and utilizing nutrients from liquids. By comparison, pills often don't break down fully in the stomach. Also note that powders usually contain a much higher collagen concentration than capsules.

There are brands, such as Body Kitchen, that design their collagen products so they can be combined and incorporated into anyone’s daily diet-routine. Whether you’re making a smoothie, cooking, or simply enhancing other supplements, Original Body Boost offers unflavored, researched, and refined collagen peptides to rejuvenate skin and joints.

When Is the Best Time to Take Collagen?

There are varying schools of thought regarding the best time to take collagen. Some individuals prefer the morning, while others choose to use the powder at night. Here's a comparison of the two options:

Taking Collagen Every Morning

Individuals who opt to use collagen in the morning often do so because they want to take the supplement on an empty stomach. Why take collagen on an empty supplement? It may be that the body can more readily absorb collagen powder when there is no other food to be digested.

Taking Collagen Before Bed

Not everyone believes that an empty stomach is the most important factor when it comes to taking collagen peptides. Those who take collagen at night usually want to take advantage of the natural repair and rejuvenation process that occurs while you sleep. Since general healing and post-exercise recovery occur during rest, the theory is that it's best to supply your body with collagen peptides at night to fuel these activities.

Factors to Consider When Determining the Best Time of Day to Take Collagen:

Scientific study has yet to uncover a better time for taking collagen, so it's up to you to decide what time is right for your needs. To determine the answer to the question, "when should I take collagen: morning or night?" consider the following:

1. Your Schedule. What does your typical day look like? If you have a hard time getting moving in the morning, you may not want to add another task to your routine. Conversely, if you're exhausted by the time you go to bed, you could feel tempted to skip your collagen supplement and turn in for the night. Pick a collagen dosing schedule that will be easy for you to stick to for the long term.

2. Your Dietary Habits. If you eat your evening meal early and snack before bed, a nighttime dose of collagen may be right for you. You can substitute a collagen smoothie for that PM snack and will likely have an empty or nearly empty stomach. Those who usually skip breakfast can benefit from a morning dose to help power their bodies throughout the day.

3. Your Health. If you take other medications or supplements, you may want to use collagen powder at the same time to keep things simple, or you may prefer to spread your regimen out during the day. Individuals who suffer from acid reflux and other conditions may not want to have a collagen drink before bed due to their doctor's advice. Your medical provider can help you determine if a collagen supplement is right for you and recommend what time to take the supplement.