Collagen comes from the Greek words kola (glue) and gennao (I produce). The origin is appropriate because collagen is basically the glue we produce that holds us all together. The important protein is found in our bones, tendons, and joints. It’s fibrous string-like links make up a major component of all our connective tissue, and the largest organ in the human body, the skin. After water, collagen is the most abundant substance in the body.
There are many types of collagen products on the market, and it’s important to keep a few collagen-basics in mind when selecting the right ones to fit your needs.
Collagen type is key. There are 28 types of collagen, but Type 1,2, and 3 contain the proteins commonly sold as supplements.
Type 1 and 3 can be taken together, and contains 19 amino acids that are essential for the health of bones, skin, hair, and nails. They may reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, strengthen nails, slow hair loss, build muscle, and even improve circulation.
Collagen Type 2 should be taken on its own (not with Type 1 & 3) and is best at bedtime. Type 2 supplements may support the health of joints, resolve knee popping, relieve jaw issues, back pain and strengthen protein in all our cartilage.
Collagen supplements are available in capsules, tablets, powders, and chewable. Some chewable may be tasty, but read the labels because many are full of sugar too. Also, beware of any collagen supplements made in countries like China with loose standards for products.
Marine collagen is the most likely source to be Chemical-Free, Allergen Free and BSE-TSE free, and contain no porcine, bovine or chicken collagen. Products made in Japan are certified with the highest degree of purity and effectiveness.
Other helpful tips:
As with any other supplement, consult your physician before taking Collagen.
Collagen may not be effective in people who have a vitamin C deficiency or those who have had certain types of weight loss surgery.
Sources:
- Moskowitz, R. (2000). “Role of collagen hydrolysate in bone and joint disease”. Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism. 30 (2): 87–99. PMID11071580. doi:10.1053/sarh.2000.9622.
- Jump up ^ Ruiz-Benito, P.; Camacho-Zambrano, M.M.; Carrillo-Arcentales, J.N.; Mestanza-Peralta, M.A.; Vallejo-Flores, C.A.; Vargas-Lopez, S.V.; Villacis-Tamayo, R.A.; Zurita-Gavilanes, L.A. (2009). “A randomized controlled trial on the efficacy and safety of a food ingredient, collagen hydrolysate, for improving joint comfort”. International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition. 12: 1–15. doi:10.1080/09637480802498820.
- https://www.energeticnutrition.com/blog/2016/04/collagen-types-1-2-3-knowing-important-differences/
- Hydrolyzed collagen, a common form in which collagen is sold as a supplement