Collagen powder and protein powder are often discussed in tandem.
Here, we break down the specific benefits for each.
Are collagen powder and protein powder interchangeable?
The short answer: No.
“What makes proteins different is their amino acid content,” saysAlbert Matheny, R.D., CSCS.
“Collagen has a very different set of amino acids than a typical animal or plant-based protein powder.”
“These are going to be the majority of amino acids found in collagen powder,” Keatley says.
Many studies have confirmed that collagen supplementation isgood for overall skin health1, too.
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One 24-week study done on athletes found that those who took collagen supplements experiencedless severe joint pain3over time.
Just keep in mind that this research is still in the early stages.
“That may decrease snack intake later in the day,” Keatley says.
The bottom line
Protein powder andcollagen powderare not interchangeable, thanks to their differing amino acid profiles.
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