Are Collagen Supps A Scam
Is Collagen Protein a Big Fat Lie? Let's Break It Down
We need to have a little chat about collagen protein. You've seen the ads, the influencers raving about its miracle properties—apparently, it's the secret to eternal youth. But before you go emptying your wallet… what if it’s bullsh!t?
The Skinny on Collagen Protein
Let's cut to the chase: collagen protein isn't the Holy Grail it's made out to be. Sure, collagen is essential for keeping your skin, hair, and nails in tip-top shape. But here's what they don’t tell you: when you consume dietary collagen in your food or supplements, your body breaks it down into the same amino acids found in any other protein source. That means you could be getting the same benefits from good old-fashioned animal protein—no boujee supps required.
Protein: Your Body's BFF
So, if collagen protein isn't the answer, what is? Enter, good old-fashioned protein. If you aim for around 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight from whole protein sources, not only will you easily cover the daily requirements for regeneration… but because, unlike collagen, these are complete proteins—that means they have all the amino acids required—you will ALSO get more positive strength and body composition outcomes.
If you're struggling to hit your protein targets, whey protein is far cheaper and more effective than collagen. Your physique and bank account will thank you.
Fat: The Forgotten Hero
We can’t end a chat about “looking younger” without talking about dietary fat. It's time to stop demonizing this essential nutrient. Your body needs fat—think hormone regulation and vitamin absorption. Some vitamins are “fat-soluble,” which means they require dietary fat to be absorbed, and many of the vitamins we credit for healthy hair, skin, and nails, like Vit A, D, and E, are fat-soluble. As a general rule, aim for around 1 gram of fat per kilogram of body weight to maximize the positive impacts of dietary fats.
Calories: The Real Deal
If you’re here, you probably do or have tracked your food, and when you do, it’s usually in a deficit to create fat loss. Eating in a deficit drives up stress and often means a lack of overall nutrient intake, making us look tired, older, and haggard before our time. If you want to look and feel younger—and of course get stronger, leaner, and jacked-er—you need to spend ample time at maintenance and/or surplus calories throughout the year.
Putting It All Together
So, is collagen protein a big fat lie? In my opinion, yes. Instead of falling for the latest fad, focus on hitting your protein and fat targets, fueling your body with enough calories, and getting some damn good sleep. Then maybe you could get a supplement sponsorship and sell a magic solution that replaces just doing the fundamentals really well ;)
Eat, lift, work, live, sleep, repeat.
Ben