Colostrum vs Collagen Supplements: Which Should You Take?
Trying to decide between colostrum vs collagen? Both pack some serious potential health benefits... but they’re not the same.
These two dietary supplements offer essential nutrients that support everything from gut health to skin glow, and depending on your goals, one might edge out the other. The good news? They’re not mutually exclusive. With their anti-aging properties and possible synergistic benefits, they could even team up in your routine.
As always, chat with your healthcare provider before trying new supplements, and don’t forget, supplements shine brightest when paired with a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
Understanding Collagen and Colostrum
Colostrum and collagen both support overall health, but they do it in very different ways. Understanding the key differences between colostrum and collagen can help you choose the right one based on your health goals.
Bovine Colostrum Supplements
Colostrum is the first milk produced by mammals after birth, which strengthens immunity and gut health. Often referred to as liquid gold, bovine colostrum (that's colostrum sourced from cow milk) is packed with nutrients that support gut lining integrity and immune system function. It's a powerful addition to your daily routine.
Colostrum contains immunoglobulins and antibodies that strengthen the immune response. It also contains growth factors that aid in muscle, tissue, and cartilage regeneration - key benefits if you’re into recovery, repair, or muscle growth.
Additionally, colostrum can help manage gastrointestinal issues like leaky gut syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. Whether you’re dealing with occasional bloating or more serious digestive health concerns, colostrum supplements can support gut function by reinforcing the intestinal lining.
But there's more than gut health and immune function support. Colostrum can also enhance athletic recovery and performance by providing essential nutrients. While it's naturally found in breast milk after giving birth, colostrum supplements offer a convenient and concentrated way to tap into those same regenerative and immune-boosting properties. No baby required.
What sets colostrum apart is that it may support the body's natural production of collagen. That makes it a great foundational supplement if you're looking for broad health support, including healthy skin and hair.
In short: it’s a gut-loving, bounce-back-better kind of supplement for immune system support. Learn more about colostrum in our article Colostrum Benefits: Are They Worth It?
Collagen Supplementation
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and supports skin elasticity, joint function, and tissue repair. It’s the glue holding everything together—from your connective tissues to the smoothness of your skin.
Most collagen supplements are made from animal sources—typically bovine (cow), marine (fish), or porcine (pig) collagen—so they’re not vegan. If you're plant-based, look for collagen-boosting alternatives that support your body’s natural collagen synthesis (think: vitamin C, zinc, and amino acid blends).
Beyond the skin benefits, collagen helps maintain cartilage, reduces joint pain, and strengthens bones. That makes it a solid pick for supporting joint health, bone health, and overall mobility... especially if you’re racking up birthdays or hitting the gym hard.
Collagen decreases with age, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging skin. That natural dip in collagen production can impact everything from skin appearance to nail health, which is why collagen supplements have become a staple in many skincare routines. It can slow down the natural decline in skin health, though it won't prevent it entirely.
By adding hydrolyzed collagen peptides to your routine, you can help promote skin hydration, improve wound healing, and even support hair growth and body composition. If youthful skin, stronger nails, and fewer creaky joints are on your wishlist, collagen might just deliver.
Long story short? Collagen brings the beauty and the bounce.
So, Should You Take Colostrum or Collagen Supplements?
Colostrum is primarily taken for immune and gut health, while collagen is for skin, hair, and joint health. But here's where it gets interesting: colostrum may also promote your body's natural production of collagen, making it a great first step if you're looking for whole-body wellness.
If you're in your 30s to 50s, colostrum alone might be enough to support your immune system, digestive health, and appearance from the inside out. But for adults aged 50+, adding collagen can provide additional targeted support for aging joints, thinning hair, and dry or sagging skin.
That said, both colostrum and collagen can aid in gut health by reinforcing the gut lining and supporting digestion. And both are generally well tolerated by the human body, but may cause digestive issues in some individuals, so it’s worth checking how you respond.
Bottom line? If you had to choose one, colostrum offers a broader range of benefits and may help support your natural collagen levels too. But if skin, joint, and hair health are top of your list, combining the two could give your results an extra boost (especially as you age).
Taking Both Colostrum and Collagen Together
More good news: you don’t have to choose. Taking both collagen and colostrum together is totally safe for most people, and in fact, it might just double down on your wellness goals. These two powerhouse supplements work in different (but complementary) ways to support overall health, from skin to gut to immunity.
Collagen delivers the amino acids needed for strong joints, healthy skin, and connective tissues. Colostrum, on the other hand, is a nutrient-rich fluid (often available as powders and gummies) packed with immune-boosting compounds and growth factors that help with digestion, tissue repair, and immune support... while also encouraging your body to make more collagen on its own.
Not sure where to start?
Zest Colostrum Gummies make it ridiculously easy to add colostrum into your routine, whether you're already taking collagen or not. Made using proprietary Cryoactive Preservation Technology, they preserve the full power of 200+ bioactives and 300mg of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in every serving.
Just 2 gummies a day can support gut health, reduce bloating, boost skin elasticity, promote hair and nail health, aid muscle recovery, and even improve sleep. No powders, no mixing, just delicious and effective immune system support.
They're peach flavored, ethically sourced, and free of both artificial colors and sweeteners.
As always, if you have allergies (especially to dairy), check with your healthcare provider before trying anything new. While allergic reactions are rare, they’re still possible with any supplement.
FAQs
Which is better to take, collagen or colostrum?
It depends on your health goals. If you’re focused on immune function, gut support, and natural collagen production, colostrum might be your go-to. If your priority is targeted support for skin, joints, and nails (especially if you're over 50) collagen could be the better fit. For many people, it’s not about colostrum vs collagen, it’s about finding the right balance of both.
What are collagen peptides?
Collagen peptides are short chains of amino acids derived from collagen. They're easier for your body to absorb and support collagen production from the inside out. As the most abundant protein in the body, collagen helps keep your skin, joints, and connective tissues in top shape.
Are collagen powders better than tablets?
Both formats can work, what matters is consistency. Powders are often easier to dose and can be added to your smoothie or coffee, which may improve absorption and support joint health and skin elasticity more efficiently for some people.
What are the disadvantages of colostrum?
Colostrum is generally well tolerated, but if you’re sensitive to dairy, it might cause digestive issues. While it’s rich in compounds that support immune defenses and bone health, it may not align with all dietary preferences (like vegan or dairy-free diets).
Does colostrum help with aging?
Yes! While collagen is the go-to for anti-aging skin health, colostrum can also support skin health, promote muscle protein synthesis, help maintain connective tissues, and may even encourage natural collagen production, all of which can help combat common signs of aging. Think fewer wrinkles, stronger muscles, and better recovery.
Does colostrum rebuild cartilage?
Colostrum contains growth factors and immune-supporting nutrients that may help protect and repair joint tissues. While it’s not a miracle cure, combining colostrum and collagen could support immune system function and contribute to overall joint health.