lar Functional Supplements 

Nutrition isn’t about just calories and basic vitamins anymore. More and more people are interested in the use of foods and supplements to support specific health outcomes like joint health, muscle recovery, and gut health. This is called functional nutrition, and along with this growing interest to use nutrition in more of a targeted way come products like collagen, creatine, greens powders, and protein powders. Let’s spotlight some of these popular functional supplements and how they work. 

Collagen 

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, supporting skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones. Collagen supplements, typically made from bovine or marine sources in more absorbable formats (hydrolyzed collagen/peptides), are especially popular for skin elasticity and joint comfort, and appealing for aging adults (we produce less collagen and break it down faster, the older we get), active individuals, or those with joint concerns. 

While studies are limited, available research shows promise that collagen can help improve skin hydration and elasticity. It may also relieve joint pain and improve joint function in those with certain conditions (though results vary). Plus, a serving of Anea collagen will provide 18 grams of protein for the body to be able to use for whatever it needs! 

Creatine 

Once thought of as a supplement only for bodybuilders, creatine – a natural source of energy for your muscles -- is now becoming widely popular with a wide variety of individuals, not just athletes. Recognized as one of the most researched sports supplements, it is shown to improve strength, muscle mass, and recovery. Emerging research even suggests potential brain health benefits.  

As with any supplement, when choosing a creatine product, look for a quality product with third party testing on the label. Anea products are all third party certified for supplement fact verification and allergens! 

Greens Powders 

Greens powders are concentrated blends of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and often probiotics, designed to boost your daily intake of plant-based nutrients for energy, immunity and digestion. Anea Daily Greens offer 13 vitamins and minerals per serving in delicious flavors like Orange and Strawberry-Watermelon, which can be a convenient way to fill in nutritional gaps. While not meant to replace whole fruits and vegetables, Greens powders can be great for busy schedules or travel as a backup. 

Protein Powders 

Protein powders — whether whey, egg-white, or plant-based — remain one of the most popular functional nutrition supplements. They support muscle repair, satiety, and convenient protein intake. Protein powders are especially helpful for active individuals or anyone struggling to meet protein needs through food alone. Quality matters: look for products with minimal added sugars and artificial additives. Anea products offer 20 grams of protein or more per serving, free of rBST and artificial flavors. 

Final Thoughts: Should you supplement? 

When it comes to functional nutrition, food should always come first. Supplements can fill in the gaps, but they’re not a replacement for a balanced, whole-food diet. If you’re curious about which functional foods or supplements might work for you, consider chatting with a registered dietitian or qualified healthcare provider – especially before taking anything new to make sure it’s safe for you.  

Sources: 

Nutrients. Effects of oral collagen for skin anti-aging: a systemic review and meta-analysis. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/. 

Nutrients. Collagen supplementation for joint health: the link between composition and scientific knowledge. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10058045/#sec5-nutrients-15-01332. 

Nutrients. Creatine supplementation and brain health. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33578876/#:~:text=Beyond%20these%20well%2Ddescribed%20effects,concussion;%20dietary%20supplement;%20phosphorylcreatine.