Collagen coffee has become something of a fixture on wellness menus, sitting neatly between turmeric lattes and mushroom blends.
It is marketed as the kind of small, functional luxury that claims to do more than just wake you up. But before reaching for the nearest sachet, it’s worth understanding what collagen actually is, and why it’s finding its way into your cup.
Collagen is a protein. In fact, it is the most abundant one in the human body, found in skin, bones, muscles and connective tissue. It plays a key role in maintaining the structure and elasticity of the skin, as well as supporting joint and bone health. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, collagen acts like a glue within the body, providing strength and support to various tissues.
Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor, says, “Collagen is a protein that plays a vital role in maintaining the structure and integrity of various tissues throughout the body. It acts as a kind of scaffolding, providing strength and elasticity. As we age, our natural production of collagen begins to decline, which can contribute to signs of ageing such as wrinkles, joint stiffness and decreased skin elasticity. Collagen is also important for wound healing and maintaining healthy hair and nails.”
There are 28 different types of collagen found in the body, but the most commonly talked about are Type 1 and Type 2. The former is the most abundant form, found in skin, hair, nails, bones, and tendons. It’s often sourced from bovine or marine collagen and is the primary type used in supplements targeting skin elasticity, hydration, and visible signs of ageing. The latter, on the other hand, is found almost exclusively in cartilage. While Type 1 supports structure and firmness, Type 2 plays a cushioning, structural role in joints.
We also spoke to Dr Jenna Macciochi, Director of Science & Innovation at Ancient + Brave, for some further insight into collagen blended with coffee.
Is drinking collagen better than taking it in supplement form?
“Collagen supplements can come in many forms. Once you’ve chosen a high-quality supplement, you need to ensure you are taking the optimal dosage. Extensive research suggests that, for Type 1 collagen, an intake range of 5-15g per day is ideal,” says Dr Jenna Macciochi.
“This is why powders are often the best option. The limited space within a single capsule makes it challenging to accommodate the necessary quantity of True or Wild Type 1 collagen – if a capsule delivers 500 milligrams of collagen, that’s 10 capsules to get to just 5 grams,” she continues.
“Undenatured Type 2 Collagen, found in our Noble collagen, however, requires a much smaller dose, and therefore a daily amount is easy to achieve in one simple capsule. Capsules also have the benefit of masking unwanted tastes and flavours”.
Macciochi goes on to provide some myth-busting insight, “Despite claims that encapsulating collagen is superior to powders as it prevents it from being degraded by the digestive action of the stomach before the collagen peptide is absorbed, there is no scientific basis for this. Ancient + Brave uses hydrolysed Type 1 collagen peptides. ‘Hydrolysed’ means they have already been broken down into a bioavailable form, which is absorbed in the small intestine.”
“The majority of clinical studies showing whole-body benefits of supplementation use hydrolysed collagen peptides in powdered form. Type 1 Collagen powders are also more versatile and can be added to various drinks (hello, creamy coffee), smoothies and more. Type 2 collagen is best suited to capsule form. Rather than a concern over digestion or absorption, the choice of capsule is due to the dose size and, in the case of Noble collagen, the synergistic co-factor nutrients that support its beneficial activity,” Macciochi aptly puts it.
What are some other benefits of drinking collagen with coffee or matcha?
“Research shows the compound benefits of consistent collagen use over time, so our collagen blends create the perfect opportunity to make your collagen supplementation a daily ritual,” says Macciochi.
“Our Collagen + Matcha blend is a harmonious blend of organic matcha, True Collagen peptides, and organic Lion’s Mane mushroom to nurture a clear mind and radiant skin from within and support whole-body health; a perfect, nourishing way to begin your morning and support mindful wellbeing. Whereas our Collagen + Coffee blend elevates an existing daily coffee ritual with a nourishing blend that supports stress resilience, gut health, and sustained energy.”
When would you recommend starting to supplement collagen?
“There’s a common misconception that collagen supplements are only beneficial for mature individuals seeking to combat the signs of ageing,” heeds Macciochi.
“While several studies have shown that consuming collagen supplements can support whole-body health in older adults, in truth, collagen is essential for people of all ages. Your body begins to deplete collagen from around your mid-20s, and by your 40s, the body has lost around 30 per cent of its entire collagen levels. Incorporating collagen into your routine from an early age can mitigate this process, offering several long-term health benefits to help you maintain healthy tissues, promoting faster recovery after injuries or intense physical activities.”
This is where collagen coffee comes in. It combines the ritual of a morning brew with hydrolysed collagen peptides, which are designed to be easily absorbed by the body. Unlike the traditional powders stirred into water or smoothies, collagen coffee aims to be seamless, convenient and slightly more appealing than a strangely flavoured supplement at 7am.
From skin-boosting blends to barista-grade brews, we sip our way through the best collagen coffees worth waking up for.