A FAQ here at VeggieVision TV and one that we also see on social media a great deal is about vegan skincare and vegan collagen – is it possible to have vegan collagen? What are the benefits? And will it work!? We decided to ask Kate Prince founder of Ancient+Brave as she knows a thing or 2 about vegan collagen…
With thanks to parkstreet_/ for the super image.
Thanks for chatting today Kate – can you tell us… why is collagen important?
Well collagen is the main structural protein found in the body and a vital component of skin, bones, connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, organs, vascular tissue and hair. Researchers have identified 28 different types of collagen and each type is identified by its own unique amino acid sequence – the building blocks of all proteins found in the body. Collagen is often associated with skin health, as it has a structural role of bringing elasticity and hydration to the skin.
28 different types! I had no idea….. When does our collagen stores deplete?
From the age of 30 onwards, the natural rate at which skin cells replenish and renew collagen starts to decline, leading to visible signs of skin ageing. Sitting underneath the skin’s outer epidermis layer, the dermis gives skin strength and firmness. As people grow older, the dermis changes structure because its collagen network breaks up and thins. At the same time skin fibroblast cells slow down production of the matrix that surrounds them, so that degraded matrix components are not replaced fast enough. This leads to loss of skin elasticity, hydration and strength, causing visible sagging and wrinkle formation.
What ingredients are in your vegan collagyn?
Sure – I would like to highlight a few key ingredients.
- Formulated with collagen specific amino acids. Chickpea Protein is an excellent source of protein for muscle tone and body conditioning.
- Wild-harvested Hebridean Seaweed – this is sustainably sourced and is a great source of iodine.
- We add chicory root inulin, so our Vegan Collagyn is rich in prebiotic fibre to support digestive function and the gut microbiome.
- 280% NRV of buffered vitamin C to support collagen synthesis.
- 800% NRV of vitamin D3 from natural algae sources.
A full list of each of our Vegan Collagyn’s can be found on our website.
What improvements should we expect to see when taking collagyn?
Our formulations alongside the five key collagen-specific amino acids contain organic botanicals and nutraceuticals that further contribute to taste, function and performance.
We’ve added buffered vitamin C as it contributes to collagen formation for normal skin function, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, the protection of cells from oxidative stress and normal psychological function. Iodine from the wild-harvested Hebridean seaweed contributes to maintenance of normal skin and production of thyroid hormones and normal thyroid function.
Fascinating stuff Kate – we really appreciate picking your brain! Finally what’s your favourite way of taking collagyn?
We love the Radiant Collagyn. This is great with warmed plant mylk or added to porridge topped with fresh berries. We have customers who love the Radiant with cold water, or in smoothies.
We are enjoying trying out this too and have whizzed up in a smoothie.
So yes there is vegan collagen out there – worth checking the ingredients and finding out what works for you.
The Ancient + Brave tribe has grown into a diverse team of food scientists, nutritionists, blending experts, industry consultants and creative minds. “Together we share a mutual love of natural wellness which is central to our Brave ethos.”
