There’s been a surge of interest in bone broths recently as the benefits of collagen (the main ingredient of these broths) gets the thumbs up for a variety of dietary (ketogenic/paleo/Banting) and wellness reasons: as the foundation for strong connective tissue, sturdy bones and beautiful skin, as well as rapid wound healing and the easing of joint pain.

There are two main types of collagen: Type I is found in bones and skin, tendons and ligaments. Type II is the key component of cartilage. The main sources of dietary collagen are beef bones/hides (Type I) and chicken sternums (Type II). Marine collagen, obtained from the scales/bones of fish, is also Type I. (There’s also Type III collagen, from the same sources as Type I).

Collagen is a complex protein chain (a peptide) comprising primarily the amino acids glycine, proline/hydroxyproline. As we age, our body’s collagen stores are depleted and need to be replaced via diet. There’s no more visible proof of collagen depletion than our skins: wrinkles are the visible sign of collagen loss.

Whilst bone broths are rich in collagen peptides, the body’s ability to absorb them is limited. Recent research has shown that is unlikely that bone broths can provide a consistently reliable source of the key amino acids found in collagen.

That’s where hydrolysed collagen comes in. When collagen is hydrolysed, enzymes break it down into smaller, more easily-absorbed molecules which increases their bioavailability (the body’s ability to use them).

Lifematrix Collagen Broth brings together hydrolysed Type 1 and Type II collagen (from beef and chicken) to deliver all the benefits of collagen in an easy-to-drink and easy-to-absorb form that the body can use effectively.

It can be consumed as an on-the-go “cuppa collagen” (just add boiling water) or added to soups and stews to create a rich and hearty stock. With a small amount of beef gelatin (a collagen precursor), mixed herbs, jelapeno/red peppers and turmeric to create a delicious lightly spicy broth, Lifematrix Collagen Broth is both a kitchen essential and a superfood in one!

A single serving of Lifematrix Collagen Broth (3 teaspoons = 12 g) delivers 10 g of Type 1 & II collagen. We blend our collagen in an 80/20 ratio of Type 1 to Type II.