Episode 101: Collagen Is More Than a Beauty Trend, It’s the Molecule of Longevity
You’ve heard about collagen for glowing skin, but what if its real magic lies deeper? In this episode of The Goode Health Podcast, Functional Medicine Practitioner Nicole Goode reveals how collagen impacts sleep, stress, and overall resilience. You’ll learn how this essential protein supports not only your skin, but also your adrenals, nervous system, and gut, playing a vital role in how your body repairs and recovers every day.
We break down the science of collagen production, the nutrients that fuel it, and the lifestyle habits that can either strengthen or deplete it, from vitamin C and magnesium to sleep, sugar, and stress. We also explain how glycine, one of collagen’s key amino acids, promotes deep sleep and calm, and how chronic stress can block collagen synthesis altogether.
This episode answers questions like:
“Can collagen improve gut health?”
“What’s the best time of day to take collagen?”
“What’s the difference between marine and bovine collagen?”
“Can collagen help with sleep or stress?”
“What nutrients increase collagen production?”
“Can you get vegan collagen?”
If you’ve been curious about how to boost collagen naturally, or which collagen supplements actually make a difference, this episode will change how you think about collagen forever. Discover how small, daily choices — from your nutrition to your nighttime rituals — can help you achieve lasting energy, balanced hormones, and longevity.
DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast and related website is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. It is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat, instead it is designed to help educate and inspire. Always seek the advice of a professional medical practitioner or qualified health practitioner. Never ignore or disregard advice given to you based on information in this podcast or related website and do not delay in seeking medical advice.
Timestamps:
[01:30] - The Science of Collagen
Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein. Learn how it supports skin elasticity, joint strength, and cellular repair, and the everyday habits that break it down.
[04:10] - Nutrition + Favorite Supplementation
Discover the nutrients that boost collagen naturally, from amino acids like glycine and proline to cofactors such as vitamin C, zinc, copper, and magnesium. Learn Nicole’s favorite collagen supplements and how to choose the right one for your body.
[08:15] - 4 Common Myths About Collagen
From “vegan collagen” misconceptions to whether topical collagen creams actually work. Learn what science really says about collagen absorption and results.
“Collagen isn’t just about glowing skin or plump cheeks, it’s the protein that literally holds you together. It supports your gut lining, stabilizes your joints, protects your arteries, and even helps you sleep better. Glycine, one of collagen’s key amino acids, calms your nervous system and supports deep rest, while stress and cortisol break it down faster. When you start seeing collagen as a reflection of your internal balance — not just a beauty trend — you begin to understand what whole-body health really means.”
Essential learnings from this episode…
Collagen is more than a beauty buzzword. It’s a structural protein that supports your skin, gut, joints, and blood vessels, helping maintain strength and flexibility throughout the body.
Your collagen production naturally declines after your 20s. Stress, sugar, smoking, and lack of sleep speed up that loss. So lifestyle is a key factor in keeping your skin and connective tissues youthful.
Collagen and sleep are deeply connected. The amino acid glycine, found in collagen, supports deeper sleep, relaxation, and stress regulation, helping your body repair overnight.
Nutrition drives collagen synthesis. To boost collagen naturally, focus on whole foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and copper, and include collagen-boosting proteins from foods like bone broth, sardines, or gelatin.
Quality matters with collagen supplements. Look for hydrolyzed peptides, sustainable sourcing (grass-fed or marine), and products with synergistic nutrients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C for better absorption.
Collagen supports longevity and resilience. Beyond beauty, it plays a vital role in hormone balance, gut integrity, and cardiovascular health, making it an essential part of healthy ageing and overall vitality.
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