How to choose quality protein powder and collagen
With so many supplements on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when every product promises better energy, fat loss, or glowing skin. In reality, supplements should be simple. They’re meant to support your nutrition, not replace real food or solid habits.
When chosen well, protein and collagen can be helpful tools. When chosen poorly, they’re just expensive extras. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Supplements Should Always Support the Basics…Not Replace Them
Before diving into labels, it’s important to zoom out. Supplements work best when they support a foundation of consistent meals, strength training, sleep, and stress management.
More ingredients don’t make a supplement better. Flashy packaging doesn’t equal quality. In many cases, the simplest option is the best one.
What to Look for in a Quality Protein Powder
Protein powder can be a convenient way to meet daily protein needs, especially for busy schedules. But not all protein powders are created equal.
Here’s what actually matters:
1. Protein Source
Whey protein isolate is generally a higher-quality option than whey concentrate. It’s more refined, easier to digest for many people, and typically contains less lactose. If you’re looking for a plant based protein, a blend of different types is often a good option.
2. Sweeteners
Look for minimal sweeteners. Options like stevia or monk fruit are common and well tolerated. Be cautious with products that rely heavily on sugar alcohols like erithritol, especially if you have digestive sensitivity.
3. Added Fats and Sugars
Protein powder doesn’t need added oils or sugars to be effective. For most people, these extras don’t add value and can make it harder to use protein consistently. Some of the latest kinds are also adding caffeine.
4. Ingredient List
Short and recognizable is usually better. If you can’t pronounce most of the ingredients, that’s a good sign to pause.
5. Third-Party Testing
This ensures the product contains what the label claims and meets quality standards. It’s one of the most often overlooked factors.
Protein powder should be boring, in the best way.
What Is Collagen, and What Does It Actually Do?
Collagen is a structural protein found in connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, skin, and joints. Unlike protein powders, collagen is not a complete protein and shouldn’t replace your primary protein sources.
Instead, collagen can be a helpful addition to support:
joint and connective tissue health
recovery from training
skin and tissue integrity
It works best when paired with a diet that already includes adequate protein and strength training.
How to Choose a Quality Collagen Supplement
When looking for a collagen supplement, quality and sourcing matter.
Look for:
Hydrolyzed collagen peptides for better absorption
Minimal ingredients with no unnecessary fillers
Transparent sourcing and manufacturing standards
Optional vitamin C, which supports collagen synthesis
Collagen won’t replace strength training or good nutrition, but it can complement both when used consistently. Making your own bone broth is also a great source of collagen.
A Note on Brand Quality
When I recommend supplements to clients, I look for brands that prioritize clean ingredients, transparent sourcing, and third-party testing. These standards matter more than trends or marketing claims.
If you’re looking for protein or collagen options that meet those criteria, you can view the products I personally use and recommend here. Shop at a discount as well!
Thorne Supplements
As with any supplement, individual needs vary. When in doubt, start simple and focus on consistency over perfection. If you need guidance on supplements, or creating a foundation of the basics, you can message me or book a free call here!
