Collagen Protein vs Whey Protein: Key Differences and Benefits
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Collagen is an important building block of your body’s skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It is a protein molecule and accounts for about 30% of the protein in the body.
Bovine collagen is primarily made from cows and pigs (while marine collagen is sourced from fish). It is extracted from the animals’ hides and then made into a flavorless powder. The proteins obtained in this process are hydrolyzed to break them down into more easily digestible amino acids.
Whey protein is protein from whey, the watery portion of milk that separates from curds when making cheese. It contains all nine essential amino acids, including branch chain amino acids (BCAAs), which can help with muscle building and recovery.
While collagen is key for joint health and often taken to help promote healthy skin, hair, and nails, whey protein powder is better for building muscle and helping with recovery from physical activity.
Yet there’s a lot more to uncover when it comes to the differences between these two protein supplements. This article will explore the nuances between collagen and whey proteins—particularly their effects on muscle growth—to help you choose the best supplement for your goals.
Collagen Protein Overview
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. Its main role is to provide structure, strength, and support throughout your body. As a key component of bones, skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue and more, it’s necessary for many body processes, including tissue repair.
Collagen is made from amino acids, mostly proline, glycine and hydroxyproline. There are 28 different types of collagen, although five of these are considered the key players in bodily processes (which we cover below).
Dietary sources of collagen
Broth
Eggs
Chicken
Fish
Berries
Leafy greens
Most Common Types of Collagen Protein
Type I Collagen: Makes up 90% of your body’s collagen. It is densely packed and used to provide structure to your skin, bones, tendons and ligaments.
Type II Collagen: Found in elastic cartilage and provides joint support.
Type III Collagen: Found in muscles, arteries, and organs.
Type V Collagen: Found in the cornea of your eyes, some layers of skin, hair, and tissue of the placenta.
Type X Collagen: Plays a crucial role in bone formation.
Benefits of Collagen Supplementation
There are a myriad of benefits when it comes to supplementing with collagen, namely it can:
Support soft tissue development
Aid in muscle recovery
Help improve joint health and mobility
Promote healthy hair, skin, and nails
Our own product, Momentous Collagen Peptides, is a formula that combines bovine collagen, vitamin C, and FORTIGEL®. FORTIGEL® contains a hydrolyzed form of collagen broken down into smaller peptides, which helps increase absorption by the body and maximizes stimulation of the human cell types involved in biosynthesis.
A number of studies have shown the positive effects of collagen supplementation on skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction, as well as improvements in joint pain, flexibility, and the strength of ligaments and tendons. Research has also highlighted the role of collagen peptides in supporting muscle recovery and promoting healthy body composition.
Whey Protein Overview
Whey is nutrient-dense and commonly used in protein supplements, such as Momentous Grass-Fed Whey. Unlike collagen protein, it is a complete protein source as it contains all nine of the essential amino acids.
Dietary Sources of Whey Protein
Most dairy products are good sources of whey protein, including:
Milk
Cheese
Yogurt
Cottage cheese
Most Common Types of Whey Protein
Whey protein concentrate: The most cost-effective as it undergoes less processing. It can comprise anything from 50% to 80% protein concentration, depending on the processing.
Whey protein isolate: Further processed to remove fat and lactose, resulting in a protein content of at least 90%.
Whey protein hydrolysate: The most expensive of all whey proteins and contains a very high protein concentration of around 99%. Through a process called hydrolysis, the molecules are broken down to enhance absorption and digestion by the body.
Benefits of Supplementing with Whey
Whey protein is a staple supplement of most active, athletic individuals. It can help:
Support muscle mass and muscle strength
Accelerate recovery post-exercise
Strengthen the immune system
Promote overall well-being
Collagen vs Whey: The Key Differences
| Whey Protein | Collagen | |
|---|---|---|
| Key Benefit | Muscle mass, strength, recovery from exercise | Joint health and mobility |
| Source | Dairy products | Bovine or fish |
| Amino Acid Profile | Complete amino acid profile | Contains eight of the nine essential amino acids |
| Dosage | One scoop per day | One scoop per day |
| Dietary Restrictions | Not suitable for vegans | Not suitable for vegans |
| Absorption Rate | Fast-acting | Fast-acting |
| Side Effects | None known | None known |
| Best For | Athletes and active individuals | Anyone looking to protect joint health and mobility and/or promote healthier hair, skin, and nails |
How Collagen and Whey Are Similar
Collagen and whey protein are both excellent sources of protein. Both are animal-based, and both can help with muscle growth and recovery.
Which Protein Supplement Should You Take: Collagen or Whey?
If you're looking to build muscle mass, recover from workouts faster, and increase your daily intake of protein, then whey protein is a better option. For those looking to protect joint health and mobility and also promote healthier skin, hair, and nails, collagen powder could be the more effective supplement to try.
Whichever supplement you decide is a better fit for your health goals, you can get both from Momentous—and both can be taken together daily with excellent results for your overall health, fitness, and wellbeing.
Our collagen protein is available in both powder and on-the-go shots. The powder is unflavored, making it easy to add to smoothies, juice, or water. Both are NSF- and Informed Sport-certified, meaning they have been independently tested by the two leading testing organizations, who verify the contents so that you have peace of mind that what’s on the label is exactly what’s in the product.
Our whey protein is also one of our best sellers and was developed in partnership with leading dietitians and strength coaches from the NFL, NBA, and NCAA. They wanted a product their athletes could use and trust, which is one of many reasons why we source this whey protein exclusively from Europe, where agricultural standards are more stringent. It is also cold processed to maintain the highest quality amino acid profile. Like our collagen, it is also NSF- and Informed Sport-certified. In late 2024, after extensive research and prototyping, a new upgraded formula was launched, which features zero gums, stabilizers, and refined sugars. Read more here—Our Whey Protein: Great Just Got Better.
“Best whey protein isolate out there! Clean, quality ingredients, great taste, and easy to digest. Great addition to smoothies or simply mixed in liquid of your choice.” - Steve H.
“This is by far the best collagen. I add it to my smoothies. There’s definitely an improvement in my hair and nails.” - Candace F.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you build muscle with collagen protein?
You can build muscle with collagen protein, but whey protein is typically considered a more effective protein supplement for this as it can stimulate higher rates of protein synthesis.
Can you take collagen and whey together?
Yes - some people use both in post-workout smoothies while others take one supplement in the morning and the other in the evening.
How long does it typically take to see results with either type of protein?
It typically takes about 14 days to see results with both types of protein. As with most supplements, long-term benefits are best achieved with regular daily supplementation.
How often should each supplement be consumed?
Both whey protein and collagen can be taken daily and there is no need for cycling on/off.
Is there an optimal time when you should consume collagen vs when you should consume whey?
Collagen is best taken 30-60 minutes before exercise to help protect joints, tendons, and ligaments.
Whey protein is best consumed immediately after exercise to help boost muscle mass and strength and to help accelerate recovery. It contains leucine, a BCAA that helps stimulate muscle protein synthesis.
Can these supplements replace meals?
No, these supplements are not designed to replace meals. Momentous recommends taking them in addition to consuming a balanced, healthy, and varied diet that is rich in macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
Emma-Kate Lidbury
Emma-Kate Lidbury is a freelance writer and editor with 20 years of experience working in the health and fitness world.
