Cacao vs Collagen

Who doesn’t love to hear that eating chocolate can help skin health? Raw cacao, found in good quality dark chocolate, is a naturally rich source of skin-loving antioxidants which can help neutralise the damaging effects of free radicals on the skin, supporting the production of collagen, and counteract signs of ageing. 

Not all chocolate is created equal, however. Raw cacao is very rarely used in mass produced chocolate bars and cheap confectionery, which is usually made with cocoa, high amounts of sugar and other ingredients not all that helpful for a glowing complexion. Cocoa is a processed cacao, and it's the processing which significantly lowers the nutritional value. Therefore, those seeking skin support should opt for products high in antioxidant rich raw cacao. The darker and purer the chocolate, the higher the levels of the good stuff. 

Comparing chocolate with collagen is like comparing apples and pears. Two different compounds which produce different effects on the body. Collagen is fundamentally the building blocks of the skin, making up a huge 70% of its structure. Yet as we age, collagen production declines which means the skin's structure is compromised. Consuming high quality hydrolysed collagen peptides has been clinically proven to positively support skin elasticity and hydration levels with studies showing significantly increased dermal collagen after supplementation. Unlike chocolate, collagen peptides exert their effects by stimulating the body’s production of collagen, as well as providing amino acids needed to build new collagen. Unknown to some, collagen also has antioxidant properties adding to the list of positive actions in the body. 

 

Please note that as advocates of the rule of balance, we want to remind you that we aren't labelling chocolate as 'bad' and believe in enjoying everything in moderation. Everyone needs a sweet treat now and then.

 

 

 

Better together 

At Ancient + Brave we’re all about bringing synergistic ingredients together rather than isolating them into opposing camps. So, why not enjoy the benefits of both? Our Cacao + Collagen combines polyphenol rich raw cacao alongside high quality collagen peptides (with other impactful botanicals for added skin-loving benefits)