Collagen protein is unique to animals, meaning there are no plant-based sources of collagen. Does this mean that plant-based athletes are out of luck when it comes to the benefits of collagen supplementation? Yes and no.
While the scientific research supporting the benefits of collagen on joints was all done with either gelatin or collagen peptides, much of this research highlights the importance of the amino acids glycine, hydroxyproline and proline in promoting collagen synthesis. There may not be a vegan source of collagen, but plant-based athletes could look to increase their intake of these amino acids in their diet either by adding foods such as cabbage and mushrooms (rich in proline) and legumes (rich in glycine) or looking for a vegan amino acid supplement.