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We looked at the science surrounding the potential health benefits and risks of the star’s morning ritual.

Reviewed by Dietitian Jessica Ball, M.S., RD

Key Points

• Jennifer Aniston starts her day with a hot cup of coffee mixed with collagen powder.
• Collagen supplements may support skin, bone and hair health.
• Eating collagen-rich foods is a cost-effective strategy to increase collagen intake.

Jennifer Aniston has a way of turning even the smallest wellness habit into a full-blown trend. From her fitness routine to her daily diet, fans have long looked to Aniston for health inspiration. While she’s previously gone viral for her intermittent fasting practices and delicious smoothie recipes, nothing compares to the now-iconic lunch salad she ate on the set of Friends everyday for 10 years. And while we love Aniston’s lunch choices, one small part of her breakfast routine has us inspired, too.

The actress and entrepreneur shared a video on Instagram as part of her partnership with Vital Proteins highlighting the daily rituals that help her achieve her idea of true wellness. Some of those practices include: playing with her dogs outdoors, hitting the gym, enjoying quality time with her girlfriends and putting on her favorite records to unwind at night. However, we were most interested in how she starts her morning: with a steaming-hot cup of coffee mixed with collagen powder.

Collagen supplements, particularly powders, have become all the rage in the last few years, touting their potential to achieve youthful skin, build strong bones and boost the health of our hair and nails. Collagen itself is a powerhouse protein that can be found in bones, tissue and cartilage (plant-based eaters should know that these powders and other supplements are derived from animal sources). But are collagen supplements healthy? And should you be mixing them with coffee? We took a look at the science.

Are Collagen Powders Healthy?

Thankfully, collagen powders aren’t just another celebrity wellness fad—there’s actually some research behind them. In fact, some registered dietitians even recommend collagen powders as an alternative to traditional protein powders like whey or pea protein, particularly for people looking to support skin, joint or bone health. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that not all collagen powders are created equal. If you’re interested in trying one, look for products labeled “collagen peptides” or “hydrolyzed collagen,” which are forms that are more easily absorbed by the body.

Jen’s go-to, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Advancedprovides protein along with nutrients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which may support healthy aging. However, collagen supplements can be pretty expensive, and they’re not necessarily any more beneficial than simply consuming collagen-containing foods like bone broth and sardines, while vitamin C-rich foods—like citrus, berries and broccoli—help support your body’s natural collagen production.

“You definitely don’t need an expensive collagen supplement to achieve strong bones and healthy skin, hair and nails,” says Victoria Seaver, M.S., RD. “Eating collagen-containing foods, like bone broth and chicken skin, can help up your intake but the most effective way to boost your collagen count is to focus on eating more of the foods that help support healthy collagen production in your body, particularly foods high in the amino acids proline and glycine and vitamin C-rich foods. Think meat, fish, dairy products, nuts, beans, eggs, wheat germ and fruit, especially citrus fruit.”

Should You Be Drinking Collagen Powder in Your Coffee?

While stirring collagen powder into your morning coffee may seem like an easy way to boost your intake, it might not be the most effective option. In fact, some research suggests that collagen proteins can begin to break down when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods of time, potentially reducing some of their intended benefits. Because of this, adding collagen to a smoothie, oatmeal or even a glass of water may help preserve the structure of the protein a bit better.

That said, research on how much heat impacts collagen supplements is still limited, and adding collagen to coffee is probably not going to make it completely ineffective. If you enjoy the convenience and taste of collagen coffee, there’s most likely no harm in keeping it in your routine—just know it may not be significantly more beneficial than getting protein and collagen-supporting nutrients from whole foods.

Our Expert Take

Jen’s love of collagen powder may help support her healthy skin, strong bones and overall glow, especially when paired with an overall nutrient-rich diet. And while adding collagen to coffee is a convenient way to incorporate it into your routine, you may get the most benefit by mixing it into cooler foods and drinks like smoothies or iced coffee. At the end of the day, pairing daily collagen powder with other healthy lifestyle habits—like eating a balanced diet, staying active and getting enough sleep—may offer the biggest benefits when it comes to healthy aging and a sustainable daily ritual.