Collagen is one of the world’s oldest health foods, and our ancestors didn’t think twice about it. Even today, in many cultures around the world it is normal to use every part of the animal for food. Animal joints, organs, and even blood contain many valuable vitamins, minerals, and proteins that support health. That includes the nutrients needed to create collagen. Collagen is created when your body receives amino acids from protein-rich foods, such as gelatin, eggs, fish, and bone broth. Glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline are three amino acids that make up 57% of collagen, and it isn’t easy to receive all three through the diet alone. 

Because collagen production in your body dramatically declines with age, it is an important supplement to put on your radar. Consider these facts about collagen, according to the Dartmouth Undergraduate Journal of Science:

• Age 20: one percent less collagen is produced in the dermis every year.
• Age 30, collagen production in your body declines.
• Age 40: collagen is no longer produced by your body.
• Age 50: collagen is diminished, leaving behind dry, thin, and sensitive skin. 

This is a big reason why collagen supplements are exploding in popularity; however, many people still have many questions about the safety of marine collagen, and we’re here to answer them!

What is marine collagen?

Marine collagen is sourced from fish scales and considered to be the most premium source of collagen. Not only does it increase bioavailability (meaning it absorbs effectively), it also contains less environmental impurities than mammal sources of collagen. Most marine collagen today comes from the scales or skin of cod or snapper and contains high amounts of amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline.

What are the benefits of marine collagen?

A marine collagen supplement can help bridge the nutritional gap for what you can’t consume in your diet. This is important because collagen is the most abundant protein in your body that acts as “scaffolding.” It is responsible for maintaining the elasticity of your connective tissues in the skin and joints, meaning it has a big job to do! Marine collagen also naturally supports the health of hair, skin, and nails. One study found that women taking a marine collagen supplement (from tilapia) experienced improved moisture levels and diminished lines after eight weeks of use. 

Is marine collagen a safe supplement? 

Marine collagen is a safe and generally well-tolerated supplement. Taking marine collagen with food helps minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. You can also start with a smaller dose and see how your body feels, then increase the dose to build up a tolerance. One peer-reviewed study that compared marine collagen to mammalian collagen found that marine collagen is safer because it has fewer impurities than mammalian collagen. 

Can I take collagen with other supplements or medications? 

If you are taking collagen with other supplements or medications, it is best to discuss with your personal healthcare practitioner to find out what is best for you. Collagen has no known detrimental interactions with other substances at this time.

Can I take too much marine collagen?

Marine collagen is like anything else. If you have too much of a good thing, the scale will tip and become unbalanced! Collagen is generally safe, but too much collagen intake may lead to stomach discomfort. Consumer Lab also reports that some individuals have reported mild skin rashes.

I am allergic to seafood and shellfish. Can I use marine collagen? 

If you have a seafood or shellfish allergy, marine collagen is not recommended for your health safety. 

Does marine collagen contain mercury? 

Mercury typically accumulates in the fatty parts of fish and not in scales. Scales do not contain any fat and are a pure form of collagen protein, making them an unlikely source of mercury. In addition, a 2012 animal study found no significant risks of marine collagen impurities during testing. 

Can I take marine collagen while pregnant?

The American Pregnancy Association advises that pregnant women consume 75 to 100 grams of protein per day. Protein assists with the growth of fetal tissue and helps increase blood supply. Marine collagen seems like an easy way to increase protein intake but when it comes to pregnancy, it is essential to consult your physician when introducing anything new to your diet. The best practice is to bring your questions to your obstetrician while pregnant to support the health and wellness of you and your bundle of joy! 

How can I incorporate marine collagen into my diet?

Teami Beauty Butterfly Collagen makes it easy to add marine collagen to your diet! It works by supporting your beauty from the inside out, naturally nourishing hair, skin, and nails. We blended sustainable, wild-caught marine collagen with butterfly pea flower and acai berry to create the perfect blend without artificial ingredients. It also contains stevia, which imparts a lightly sweetened taste.

Although you can mix our Beauty Butterfly Collagen with coffee, tea and water, we recommend blending it into a smoothie. We created this marine collagen formula specifically for use in smoothies to ensure the integrity and purity of our collagen supplement for you! In fact, you may notice that marine collagen has a fish-like smell and taste. This is normal because our marine collagen is in its purest form. You will not notice this when you incorporate our collagen powder into a delicious smoothie. And whether you’re an old pro or new to using collagen, you can easily incorporate one scoop of Beauty Butterfly Collagen into any of the smoothies in our 5-Day Smoothie Challenge!

Marine collagen is an incredible supplement that provides many beauty benefits, and we want to be part of your collagen journey on social media! Share your marine collagen smoothie creations with us on Instagram using the #thankyouteami hashtag and don’t forget to include the recipe!