What is collagen?
Collagen is an essential protein and building block of healthy hair, skin, nails, joints and muscles, which declines naturally with age. Collagen has 8 out of the 9 essential amino acids, as it lacks tryptophan. 

There are 28 different types of collagen in the human body; however, 80 – 90% of the collagen consists of types I, II, and III.

What does collagen do?

Collagen (mainly types I and III) is the main structural protein in the skin and makes up a whopping 75% of it.

Bovine collagen contains types I, II & III, providing not only skin benefits but also joint support. It may also help with:

• Improved hydration and skin elasticity
• Reduce roughness of skin
• Thickening of dermal layers for overall skin health
• Antioxidant benefits
• Improving heart health, joint health & wound healing

Type II collagen, also found in chicken, specifically has been shown to improve joint mobility and comfort.

Where does collagen come from?
Our hydrolyzed collagen peptides Types I & III come from grass fed and pasture   

raised bovine. Our Type II collagen is sourced from organic and free range chickens.

What’s the difference between Types I, II and III collagen?

The most common types of collagen and where they are found in the body are:

Type I: Most abundant collagen found in connective tissue  (i.e. skin, tendon, bone tissue, etc.)

Type II: Found predominantly in cartilage (i.e. joints between bones, ends of ribs, ears & nose, etc.)

Type III: Often found alongside Type I collagen (although in much smaller amounts)

Does collagen exist in plant form?

No, plants are not found to “grow” or contain collagen. Collagen protein has a unique set of amino acids found only within the skin and tissue of animals, and this amino acid combination does not naturally occur in plants.

How much collagen is recommended?
Safe dosage seems to be 2.5 grams per day to 10 grams per day. Supplementation with anywhere from 2.5 to 10 grams of hydrolyzed collagen per day for at least 4 to 8 weeks has been shown to produce noticeable improvements in skin elasticity and hydration, and reduce visible signs of skin aging. Supplementation of 5 to 10 grams of collagen peptides (bovine-sourced) daily over 12 to 24 weeks was shown to improve activity-related joint pain in athletes and those with activity-related knee pain. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6566836) BETH please hyperlink as PubMedCentral

Is collagen safe for expecting/breastfeeding moms?
Speak with your doctor first as nutritional needs may vary when pregnant or breastfeeding.

How long should I take collagen?
Research suggests taking collagen for a minimum of 4 to 8 weeks daily and on-going to achieve desired and best results.

How do I take collagen?
BioOptimal Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides are available in powder and capsule forms. Our unflavored powder dissolves effortlessly in liquids (think: smoothies, juices, soups).

How is collagen best stored?
Store in a cool, dry place with lid tightly sealed. 

Does BioOptimal use any fillers, binders or preservatives?
No, our products are free from fillers, binders, and preservatives; dairy, gluten, egg, peanut, fish, soy, wheat and yeast.

What is Chlorella and why is it considered a superfood?

Chlorella is a nutrient dense, freshwater green algae that’s high in protein (all 9 essential amino acids, antioxidants (chlorophyll, vitamin C, beta-carotene, lycopene and lutein) & iron, making it an excellent addition to a vegan diet. It is believed to support health in many ways: 

• May be beneficial for heart health (due to muscle strength and blood pressure benefit and can help to lower cholesterol)
• May improve immunity, blood pressure, blood sugar, and gut health
• May help to detox the body (can even help w/heavy metals)
• Is a bioavailable source of both Iron and vitamin B12 
• May enhance endurance and muscle strength

Caution: People with allergies to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid algaes.

What is Spirulina and why is it considered a superfood?

Spirulina is a nutrient-dense blue-green algae, a complete source of (vegan) protein and loaded with antioxidants. It is believed to be one of the oldest life forms on Earth. First used by the Aztecs as an endurance-booster, spirulina is considered a superfood with a nutrient levels comparable to eggs. It is believed to support health in many ways:

• May be beneficial for skin, bone health, heart health and blood pressure
• May benefit immune system and alleviate allergy symptoms
• May improve academic performance and may help promote brain health
• May aid in weight loss

What is Turmeric and why is it considered a superfood?

Turmeric is a spice, native to Southeast Asia and a major ingredient in curry powder. Curcumin is a major component of turmeric, and the activities of turmeric are commonly attributed to curcuminoids (curcumin and closely related substances). It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant. Curcumin gives turmeric its yellow color. It is believed to support health in many ways:

• May improve outcomes for heart health
• May help promote brain health
• May help symptoms of joint inflammation

Are BioOptimal Supplements non-GMO? 

Yes, none of our supplements contain GMO ingredients.

Are BioOptimal Chlorella and Spirulina free of heavy metals?
BioOptimal’s USDA Certified Organic Chlorella and Spirulina are widely considered the best & safest sources in the world, grown in a controlled environment & third-party tested for heavy metals & other contaminants. 

 Are BioOptimal products dairy free?

Yes, all BioOptimal Supplement products are dairy free. They are also gluten-free, wheat-free, soy-free, peanut-free, yeast-free, sugar-free, non-GMO and free from fillers, binders and preservatives.

Are BioOptimal products made in the USA?

Yes, all BioOptimal products are manufactured in the USA.

Is Amazon an authorized distributor?

Yes, Amazon is an authorized distributor for BioOptimal Supplements.