South African brand The Harvest Table expands collagen options as UConn study shows bone benefits for female runners

The Harvest Table, a South African wellness company, is launching several collagen formulations to help consumers choose products that suit their lifestyles. Offerings include grass‑fed bovine collagen granules (Types I and III), a multi‑collagen blend with vitamins and minerals, and a vegan protein powder with added glycine and proline. Founder Catherine Clark and CEO Sam Clark say the goal is to provide clear information so shoppers can select the type that best fits their daily routine.

A separate research project at the University of Connecticut examined collagen peptide supplementation in 22 naturally menstruating female distance runners. Participants who took 20 g of collagen peptides each morning for four weeks showed a rise in the bone‑formation marker P1NP and a drop in the inflammatory protein IL‑6, while the bone‑breakdown marker CTX‑1 remained unchanged. The findings suggest collagen may help improve bone health and reduce injury risk in female athletes who run high weekly mileage.