Collagen And Protein: Benefits Of Collagen And Protein Powder For Sports

We’re always keen to chat about the many benefits of our collagen supplements. For example, many of our Absoluters take our collagen sachets to feel more comfortable and confident in their skin.  

But beauty is only skin deep - and we want to help you feel your best on the inside, so you can look your best on the outside. That’s why, in this article, we’re going to delve deeper into the benefits of looking after yourself and how collagen and protein can support a healthy fitness routine. 

Let’s get started!

What is collagen protein?

Collagen is a naturally occurring protein found throughout the body – in skin, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments.

In fact, it makes up around a third of the total protein in your body. Sometimes called ‘the glue that holds us together’, it plays a huge role in structural support, tissue repair, and skin elasticity.

How much protein is in our collagen powder?

Both our collagen powder and liquid collagen contain 8,000mg of protein per serving*.

Whilst it’s not as high as a scoop of whey protein (which can range from 20–30g), the real benefit lies in how efficiently collagen is absorbed and utilised by the body, thanks to those hydrolysed peptides.

Plus, collagen is enriched with specific amino acids – like glycine and proline – that aren’t as common in a standard diet or in many regular protein powders. These amino acids are particularly beneficial for supporting healthy connective tissues, joints, and muscle recovery, especially for those involved in high-impact sports or weight training.

*Protein contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass. Each sachet of Absolute Collagen is high in and a source of protein. Enjoy a daily dose of Absolute Collagen as part of a balanced, healthy diet and active lifestyle.

What’s the difference between collagen and whey protein?

Just like collagen, protein’s secret is the amino acids. Whey protein contains all nine essential amino acids – which is why it’s sometimes called a ‘complete protein’! 

Powders and supplements like whey protein work by giving you a boost of amino acids, which are vitally important for the body to support the growth of tissue and muscle. As collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, it’s also vital for tissue and muscle growth.

However, there’s a difference between collagen and whey protein as they are sourced from different places. Whey protein is a milk by-product, while collagen protein is sourced from the bones, skin, and connective tissues of animals and fish - here at Absolute Collagen, we use the latter!

Absolute Collagen has the added bonus of being hydrolysed which means our body can efficiently absorb the amino acids faster.

Can you take collagen and whey protein together?

Absolutely – you can take both. In fact, combining collagen and whey protein is a smart way to give your body a wider range of amino acids.

That said, timing is everything. We recommend spacing out your Absolute Collagen from any high-protein meal or shake (think 20g of protein or more). This isn’t because they interact badly – not at all – but because your body will need to work harder to absorb more protein at one time.

By giving your Absolute Collagen an hour or so on its own, you allow your body to absorb and utilise the collagen peptides more efficiently.

For example, many Absoluters enjoy their collagen first thing in the morning – sometimes with breakfast, sometimes on its own. A poached egg on toast alongside your collagen sachet is perfectly fine (an egg contains around 6g of protein), but if you’re planning to down a whey shake, best to give your collagen a head start.

Can you mix protein and collagen powder?

Yes, you can – just keep in mind the same advice around timing. Mixing collagen powder into your day is easy, especially since ours has a neutral taste and dissolves beautifully (once mixed) in hot or cold drinks. You could take your whey protein after your workout and stir your collagen into your mid-morning coffee or lunchtime smoothie.

For inspiration, check out our collagen recipes blog, where we’ve shared tasty ideas like overnight oats, mango smoothies and even no-bake protein bites.

So, collagen and whey protein don’t need to compete – they can complement each other really well. Just give them a little space to work their magic!

To start your Absolute Collagen journey today, browse our collagen supplements or head over to our Collagen Lab for more expert insights.