I have been using collagen peptides FOREVER and it just recently occured to me that I don’t think I’ve talked about it at length on the blog. Whenever I share recipes or what I’m feeding Dillon on my Instagram stories, I’ll get questions on things I use, like, and repeat often. One of my secret weapons for all 3 of us is collagen peptide powder. I swear by Vital Proteins and find that Costco and Amazon usually have the best prices. There are so many benefits to collagen and really everyone can benefit from them [I think this article has a lot of good information, specifically around the benefits of collagen peptides for children]. Both of my boys are rather picky but when they like something, boy, do they go to town. So, sneaking in healthy things here and there are always a win. Here are 5 ways I add these amazing proteins into our routine meals:
1.) Smoothies/Shakes – This one is a no-brainer. Adding one scoop into my normal smoothie recipe packs extra protein, especially on days where I know I might be light in that arena [more on how I track macros is in this post]. It dissolves right into the water and no one is the wiser.
2.) Coffee/Tea – This one is another one that could not be easier. I simply add a scoop right into my tea or coffee [I currently am loving my protein dirty chai] and watch it melt right in. You can’t taste it at all and the added proteins and fats just help kick start my day.
3.) Mashed Potatoes – Yes, you read that right. I’ll admit that the Chaulk house is no stranger to a bag of powdered mashed potatoes. For holidays or fancier dinners, I will definitely splurge and spend the time making them from scratch, but for normal quick and easy weeknight meals, I have no shame in turning to this from time to time. But, the way that I make them better is by jazzing them up. Fresh cracked pepper, minced garlic, shredded cheddar, and [you guessed it] a scoop of collagen peptides makes this a delicious, QUICK, super affordable, and actually now nutritious side dish. The peptides dissolve right into the mixture so you won’t taste it at all.
4.) Soups – Especially in the colder months, I love a good, warm cup of soup. This is another vehicle where the peptides can dissolve right in and add a punch of protein. Dillon devours grilled cheese and tomato soup, so adding in a scoop makes me feel better about this otherwise comforting meal.
5.) Oatmeal – If Dillon were a food group, he’d be a breakfast carb. This boy can HOUSE waffles, pancakes, muffins, and oatmeal. Adding a scoop of collagen peptides to oatmeal [and even pancake batter] is a surefire way to get some added protein in to his meal. In fact, I doctor pre-packaged oatmeal up every single time. Our go-to formula is 1 packet of maple & brown sugar oatmeal, 1 scoop collagen peptides, 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, a dash of cinnamon, and half a banana. I kid you not when I say Dillon eats that whole bowl for lunch and usually can keep going. It’s so nutritious and I feel good about him having a good, hearty meal.
So, there you have it. I hope this gives you some inspiration on how to sneak healthy things into your family’s go-to meals. For me personally, I definitely notice collagen help the most with hair and nail growth as well as joint health. It’s something that I know, especially in the long run, will benefit all three of us and I feel so good knowing that we’re all going to reap the benefits that collagen peptides can provide. Let me know in the comments if there are any other sneaky ways to work this into the meal rotation!
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Please note: I am not a medical professional and this is meant for informational purposes only based on what works for my family and I. Always consult with your physician first with any questions regarding diet and supplements.
