AMA #19: Collagen vs. Whey Protein, Creatine, Smelling Salts, Stimulants & More

Andrew Huberman

Apr 25, 2025

Episode description

Welcome to a preview of the 19th Ask Me Anything (AMA) episode, part of Huberman Lab Premium.

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If you’re not a member, you can learn more and join Huberman Lab Premium at https://www.hubermanlab.com/premium.

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*Timestamps*
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:15 The Importance of Light Management for Sleep
00:00:58 Huberman Lab Premium
00:01:33 Research Funding & Matching Donations
00:03:05 Subscription Details & Benefits
00:03:48 Protein Sources
00:05:18 Comparing Whey Protein, Bone Broth, & Collagen
00:10:08 Protein Intake Recommendations
00:14:22 Whey Protein & Skin Health
00:17:42 Conclusion

*In the full AMA episode, we cover:*

- Creatine & Water Retention
- Creatine for Brain Health
- Creatine Use in Teenagers
- Safety & Effects of Smelling Salts
- Other Stimulants: Caffeine & Nicotine
- Prescription Stimulants & Cognitive Enhancers

Disclaimer & Disclosures: https://www.hubermanlab.com/disclaimer

Episode description

Mindsip insights from this episode:

Ingest 15 grams of collagen daily to enhance skin elasticity

Ingesting 15 grams of collagen protein or bone broth daily for at least two weeks can improve skin elasticity and appearance.

#collagen

#skin

Block blue and green light at night to enhance melatonin production

Wearing glasses that block both blue and green light at night can prevent the suppression of melatonin and increases in cortisol caused by bright artificial lights.

#blue-light

#melatonin

Choose whey protein for optimal muscle synthesis

Whey protein is superior to collagen or bone broth for muscle growth because its high concentration of the amino acid leucine effectively stimulates muscle protein synthesis.

#muscle

#protein

Aim for one gram of protein per pound from whole foods and supplements

Aim for approximately one gram of protein per pound of body weight, sourcing 60-70% from whole foods and the remainder from supplements like whey protein.

#protein

#supplement

Monitor whey protein intake to prevent acne flare-ups

The high leucine content in whey protein can increase mTOR pathway activity, which in some individuals may lead to or worsen acne.

#protein

#skin

Monitor whey protein intake during menstrual cycle to manage acne

Women may find that whey protein exacerbates acne only during specific phases of their menstrual cycle due to interactions between hormones and the mTOR pathway.