It’s one of the biggest questions we get—and the internet is full of myths. Here’s the science on absorption vs. synthesis, plus how to actually get results from your daily collagen routine.
Absorption vs. Synthesis (and how to get real results)
Science clarity: Hydrolysed collagen doesn’t require vitamin C for absorption.
Vitamin C only helps your body build new collagen—so think “daily adequacy,” not “must mix at the same time.”
1) Absorption (getting collagen into your system)
Our hydrolysed collagen is already pre-broken into small peptides, ready for your body to simply absorb. After you ingest it, our hallmark peptides (like prolyl-hydroxyproline, “Pro-Hyp”) will naturally appear in the bloodstream—without vitamin C.
2) Synthesis (your body building new collagen)
Vitamin C is essential for making new collagen, acting as a co-factor for enzymes (prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase) that stabilise the collagen triple helix. Inadequate vitamin C impairs normal collagen formation and tissue repair.
Bottom line: Collagen peptides absorb on their own. Vitamin C supports the body’s collagen-building machinery.
Common Misconceptions (Cleared Up)
“Collagen won’t absorb without vitamin C.”
False. Hydrolysed collagen peptides are absorbed and detectable in plasma independent of co-ingested vitamin C.
“You must take vitamin C at the exact same time as collagen.”
Not necessary for absorption. Getting enough vitamin C across the day supports collagen synthesis; timing only matters in specific training/rehab protocols.
“More vitamin C is always better.”
Not true. Aim for adequacy: RDA ≈ 75 mg/day (women), 90 mg/day (men); UL = 2,000 mg/day due to potential GI upset at higher intakes. Prioritise whole foods (citrus, kiwi, berries, peppers, broccoli).
When Pairing Vitamin C + Collagen is Smart
For tendons/ligaments (jumping, running, lifting, or rehab), a controlled trial showed that collagen taken ~1 hour pre-exercise with vitamin C increased a blood marker of collagen synthesis versus placebo. This is a targeted protocol for connective tissue—not a daily requirement for everyone.
How to Use Our Products for Maximum Collagen Support
COLLAGEN-X - Our multi-collagen supplement including Bovine Collagen
How to take it:
- Morning is ideal for habit-building. Take 1 serving first thing—with or without food. Collagen peptides are absorbed as small peptides either way.
- Coffee-friendly. Because it’s hydrolysed, it’s heat-stable at normal coffee/tea temperatures, so stir into your hot drink or water/smoothies.
- Pairing options: You don’t need vitamin C at the same time for absorption, but getting enough C in your day supports collagen synthesis. Easy wins: have it with PLUMP or BALANCE, or—if you prefer it solo—include vitamin C–rich foods (e.g., orange, kiwi, berries, peppers) sometime that day.
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Training/rehab days (optional): 10–15 g collagen about 30–60 min pre-exercise with a small vitamin C source is a targeted protocol for tendons/ligaments.
PLUMP - Our antioxidant Berry Blend, scientifically formulated with 29 ingredients to restore your gut, reduce inflammation and fight free radicals that cause disease and aging. Ingredients include 2+ Billion CFU Probiotics, 5 Digestive Enzymes, Prebiotics, 10+ Antioxidant Superfood Blend, Hydrolysed Collagen Peptides
How to take it:
- With a meal. The included digestive enzymes are intended to work alongside food.
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Why it pairs well with COLLAGEN-X: PLUMP’s vitamin C–rich fruit ingredients help cover daily C needs that support collagen synthesis, while its hydrolysed collagen provides readily absorbed peptides. Use it alone for an easy all-in-one, or stack with COLLAGEN-X to raise total collagen intake and streamline results.
BALANCE - Our potent alkalizing green + adaptogen blend that is formulated to nourish your body, lightly suppress your appetite and stabilise your mood. It contains, 2+ Billion CFU Probiotics, 5 Digestive Enzymes, Prebiotics, 10+ Adaptogen Blend, Sceletium Extract, Green Superfood Blend, Hydrolysed Collagen Peptides
How to take it:
- With a meal the digestive enzymes can do their job.
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Why it pairs well with COLLAGEN-X: BALANCE includes vitamin C–containing greens/fruit ingredients to support collagen synthesis, while its hydrolysed collagen contributes additional peptides. Take it solo for a micronutrient top-up, or combine with COLLAGEN-X to boost overall collagen intake.
Simple, effective routines
- Every day: COLLAGEN-X in morning coffee or water. Later, PLUMP or BALANCE with a meal.
- Taste-first ritual: Smoothie with COLLAGEN-X + PLUMP.
- Busy-day baseline: BALANCE with lunch; COLLAGEN-X whenever you’ll remember.
- Solo COLLAGEN-X fans: Take it any time, then include a vitamin C–rich snack (orange, kiwi, berries) during the day.
The key is daily consistency. COLLAGEN-X gives you a solid collagen base, PLUMP adds a vitamin C–rich antioxidant boost, and BALANCE delivers greens, vitamin C and adaptogens for all-round support. Find the routine you enjoy, stick to it, and pair it with nutrient-rich foods — small daily habits that keep your skin, joints, and connective tissues feeling their best.
