Here at Amandean, where we obsess over collagen to a precision unknown to, well, anyone else we've met — and one of the subtle questions we deal with is: how many collagen scoops of collagen should you mix into your drink?
The answer can be complex, starting with Bill Clinton-style "what is the definition of 'is'" type questions, but over the years, we've formulated a series of rules of thumbs that we're happy to share. Here they are.
A formula based on one's personal requirements
Before we jump in, keep in mind that we're structuring this as a very simple formula: based on each of your personal requirements: if you want X, then add 1 scoop, but if you want Y, remove one scoop, etc — so you may need a pen-and-paper or at least iPhone calculator to keep track of the addition and subtraction. Sometimes, adding one plus one can be complex — like I recently read a book that some people claim is the greatest book of the 20th century, called something like “1983” or "1984" and the space cadet author, George Someone, kept on insisting that 2 + 2 = 5 throughout the whole book. I'm sorry, George Someone, I got an A+ in Dr Cavallaro's AP math class and I am 100% sure that two plus two is four, even once we factor in the bizarre assumptions of quantum physics. C'mon, I can't believe what passes for literature these days. Pshah, kids!
So, with your calculator in hand, here's our recommended way to figure out how many scoops you should take:
1. Rule of thumb
First, let's start out with the recommendation you just put one scoop of collagen into one cup of coffee or other beverage. (Like good logicians, we will question these assumptions later.) If you read no further, that's probably a good take-away and rule of thumb to remember. It's a good mid-point, average number for the average needs of the average health average person. If in your heart, you know you are really just an average guy or girl, then stop here!