A deep dive into fish collagen: An anti-ageing supplement for hair, skin, nails and joints

Collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body, plays a vital role in maintaining the firmness, elasticity and youthful appearance of our skin, as well as the suppleness of our joints.

However, as we age, our body’s natural collagen production declines, resulting in visible signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles and less elastic skin, along with weaker hair and joints.

In the quest for wellness and youthful vitality, many have turned to health-boosting supplements, and one ingredient has surged to prominence – fish collagen.

THE BENEFITS OF FISH COLLAGEN 

Fish collagen, derived from fish skin, scales and bones, offers numerous benefits, said Ms Karen Marsh, director of 21st Century Healthcare.

“The process of creating fish collagen starts with the extraction of gelatin from these fish parts, followed by a hydrolysis process that converts the gelatin into highly bioavailable and bioactive collagen peptides,” she explained.

The primary composition of Type 1 collagen in fish collagen forms the foundation for healthy-looking skin, flexible tissue and strong bones. Over time, taking supplements that contain fish collagen may improve skin elasticity, relieve joint pain and promote bone health, said Ms Marsh. 

An article in the peer-reviewed journal Marine Drugs in January last year showcased several ways in which marine collagen may support health. It reported that marine collagen not only accelerates wound healing but also exhibits anti-ageing properties, as evidenced by the deceleration of the ageing process in mice. Studies on humans have also shown that marine collagen can reduce wrinkles, boost skin elasticity and enhance the overall structure and appearance of skin. 

IS ALL FISH COLLAGEN CREATED EQUAL? 

When considering fish collagen supplements, it is essential to understand that not all fish collagen is created equal. Research – including a study published in biomedical journal Engineered Regeneration in September last year – indicates that collagen peptides extracted from fish collagen and processed into nano-sized peptides molecules have superior bioavailability (a measure of the body’s ability to absorb an ingredient), absorbability and digestibility. 

According to 21st Century Healthcare, its Japanese Fish Collagen Nano Peptides boasts the lowest molecular weight among all fish collagen products on the market, measuring under 1,000 daltons, a unit of measurement for molecular weight. The lower the dalton, the greater the ease and efficiency with which the collagen molecules can be absorbed into the body, Ms Marsh shared. 

“Due to its nano-sized peptide molecules, 21st Century Healthcare’s fish collagen is absorbed at a higher level through the intestinal barrier into the bloodstream. This can lead to increased collagen deposits in joint tissues, bones and skin, supporting joint cartilage renewal,” she added. 

WHAT TO NOTE WHEN BUYING FISH COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENTS 

Before incorporating fish collagen supplements into your health regimen, it is crucial to ensure that you are not allergic to fish. It is also prudent to consult your doctor prior to starting any new supplements.

Ideally, fish collagen should be sourced from species of fish that are less prone to contamination with pollutants or heavy metals, such as deep-sea fish. 21st Century Healthcare’s Japanese Fish Collagen Nano Peptides is extracted from cod fish sourced from Japan.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the nutritional content of fish collagen supplements from different brands. Checking the nutritional labels for the amount of collagen peptides in each serving is advisable. For instance, due to the low molecular weight of Japanese Fish Collagen Nano Peptides, each dose of 6,500mg is equivalent to between 19,500mg and 30,000mg of other fish collagen peptides, says 21st Century Healthcare.

For optimal results, Ms Marsh recommends taking fish collagen supplements either first thing in the morning or before bed, alongside a nutritious and varied diet. Each sachet of Japanese Fish Collagen Nano Peptides can be mixed into warm water, added to juice or sprinkled over soups and other dishes. 

Embrace a healthier you from the inside out with 21st Century Healthcare’s Japanese Fish Collagen Nano Peptides, available at selected Guardian and Watsons stores.

The article should not be taken as medical advice or used as a recommendation for any specific treatment or medication. Consult your doctor before taking a new supplement.