You've probably heard about the properties of collagen, how it can help, and which one to choose. But have you ever wondered what collagen actually is? From this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about collagen. Not only how and what it does, but also its structure and the different types. and types etc. After reading this text, collagen will have no secrets for you! :)
What is collagen?
First, let's understand what collagen is. Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human body (accounting for approximately 30% of all proteins). It's the building block of tissues, responsible for their strength and elasticity. Skin, tendons, bones, cartilage, teeth, and the cornea of the eye—collagen is the building block of all these tissues.
The body produces this protein itself. When we're younger, this production is efficient, but with age (usually after 25), it declines. After age 50, this decline is rapid, and after age 60, collagen synthesis ceases altogether. At the same time, factors that degrade collagen are constantly at work. One such factor is free radicals (oxidative stress). When the ratio between collagen production and degradation changes unfavorably, skin and hair, for example, can be negatively affected. Signs of aging will begin to appear on the skin, and tissue elasticity may decrease, so it's worth checking in advance what it is and what it should look like. collagen supplementation. Collagen is divided into different types and kinds depending on its origin and function.
Collagen can be delivered to the body through the diet, similarly to collagen that is enclosed in the form of a dietary supplement, e.g. capsules or powder to be dissolved in water.
Collagen functions
Now that we know what collagen is, we can move on to the functions collagen performs in the body. There are many. The primary function of collagen is maintaining the structure and elasticity of organs and tissues, such as skin. Another function of collagen is its impact on hair and the skeletal system – it's worth noting that impaired collagen synthesis can increase bone fragility, and therefore, breakage. When discussing collagen's other effects, it's also important to note that it supports tissue regeneration. It affects joints by promoting the production of synovial fluid. For those who use collagen, the moisturizing function of this protein is crucial, as it contributes to the healthy appearance of skin. Collagen also maintains the elasticity of blood vessels. What else does collagen do? It protects internal organs, such as the kidneys and stomach, and also facilitates the absorption of minerals. As you can see, collagen has numerous functions.
Collagen properties
The functions this protein performs in the body are a result of collagen's properties. Collagen's most important properties are tensile strength and elasticity. These are important for skin, joint, and tendon health, among other things. Collagen's properties also allow it to contribute to wound healing and skin hydration.
Collagen structure
What is collagen made of? Collagen is composed of three long amino acid chains that form a unique spiral structure. This gives collagen its strength and elasticity. The triple helices interconnect, creating collagen fibers, which then build skin, bones, and more. Collagen's structure is based on the amino acids glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, and hydroxylysine, but it also contains other amino acids. The structure of collagen varies depending on the type.
Types of collagen
Collagen types can be considered from several perspectives. One of these is the types of collagen in the body. It's important to note that collagen differs from one another depending on its structure and functionality.
Collagen types 1, 2 and 3
Scientists list up to 29 types of collagen. They can be divided into two groups: fibrillar collagen (which forms fibers) and non-fibrillar collagen (which does not form fibers). Type 1 collagen constitutes up to 90% of the collagen in the body. It is the building block of bones, skin, and tendons. It is responsible for the strength of these tissues. Type 2 collagen is found primarily in cartilage, providing cushioning and protection for joints. Type 3 collagen is found in the tissues of the liver, lungs, and blood vessels. Due to its wide specialization, we will not describe all types. Interestingly, different types of collagen "work" together, for example, in wound healing. This refers to collagen types 1 and 3. Initially, the wound is covered by the less durable type 3 collagen, but over time, the body replaces it with type 1 collagen.
Natural collagen
Collagen has remained one of the most popular products on the market for years. Natural collagen is found as an ingredient in cosmetics and dietary supplements. The natural collagen in such products is most often obtained from animals: bovine, pork, or pure fish collagen. Natural collagen can also be found under the name plant collagen, but there's an important caveat: plants don't produce collagen, so in this context, we're talking about ingredients that support collagen synthesis, which can be sourced from plants. Natural collagen is also referred to as native collagen.
Collagen effects
What does collagen help with? The effects of using collagen can be varied and depend on many factors, such as whether we use it as a cosmetic or dietary supplement. The benefits of collagen also depend on the individual's predispositions, the type of collagen, and its amount in a given product. So what is collagen most often used for? People who want to take care of their skin often reach for it. Collagen can support elasticity and hydration, and help conceal wrinkles. It also supports joints and bones. What else does collagen help with? The appearance of hair, which may experience an improvement in its appearance and condition. Because, as we mentioned, collagen also affects wound healing processes, a change can be noticed here as well. Because collagen affects the skin, collagen can be used, and cellulite and stretch marks can be reduced. What else does collagen do? Does it affect blood vessels or for better sleep quality.If we want to see if collagen helps, regularity is important – to use collagen every day.
When discussing how collagen works, it's important to note that the form of administration is of secondary importance. Therefore, it's not as important whether we use collagen tablets or capsules. The effects of drinking collagen should also be similar. Drinking collagen can be a good option for those who don't like tablets or capsules. Collagen powder dissolves in their favorite beverage or plain water. This is a good option for forgetful individuals, as it makes it easier to remember their daily protein intake, which is aided by the delicious taste of the drink.
Some people wonder about collagen and weight gain, wondering if collagen contributes to weight gain. So, does collagen make you gain weight? No, collagen is a low-calorie protein and has no impact on weight.
Animal collagen – fish or beef collagen to choose?
As mentioned, natural animal collagen can come from various sources. It could be fish or bovine. Before choosing a product, it's worth considering which collagen is better—fish, beef, or perhaps pork. Much depends on personal preferences, as well as issues like allergies. Bovine and fish collagen can also differ in price and, of course, in functional characteristics such as absorption rate. Regardless of whether you choose fish, bovine, or something else, it's worth considering its quality, purity, the amount of additional ingredients, the manufacturer's reputation, and so on.
Fish collagen
Fish collagen It enjoys a particularly high reputation among all types of collagen. This is due to its structure, which is similar to that of human collagen, as well as its good bioavailability. Fish collagen is most often obtained from fish skin and is particularly rich in type 1 collagen. Due to the sourcing process and favorable reviews, marine collagen can be more expensive than other types. However, it's sometimes worth spending a little more when the price is matched by the quality.
Beef collagen
Another type of collagen is bovine collagen, obtained from the skin and bones of cattle. It contains a high percentage of collagen types 1 and 3. However, bovine collagen has a weaker reputation and reputation than fish collagen. It's obviously not a good choice for vegetarians or vegans. It's also less digestible than fish collagen. When choosing products containing this type of collagen, it's important to pay attention to quality and choose branded products from reliable sources.
Pork collagen
Pork collagen is another type of this protein. It also contains primarily collagen types 1 and 3. This type of collagen is used quite frequently, although it's not suitable for everyone, for religious reasons, for example. In the context of this type of collagen, consumers often wonder whether pork collagen and gelatin are the same. They share a common source, but differ in their uses and properties. Gelatin is used in the food industry, while collagen is often used as a dietary supplement. Hydrolyzed collagen is also more easily absorbed than gelatin.
Vegan collagen
It should be noted that vegan collagen does not actually exist, as collagen is a protein of animal origin. What can be understood by the terms plant collagen or vegan collagenand These are actually products with ingredients that stimulate the body's natural collagen production.
Collagen hydrolyzate
Dietary supplements, such as: Collagen in jellies from Noble Health contain hydrolyzed collagen. Collagen hydrolysate is a form in which long protein chains have been broken down into small peptides via a hydrolysis reaction. What does this form of collagen offer the user? Hydrolyzed collagen is absorbed more quickly by the body and is also water-soluble. For these reasons, collagen hydrolysate is one of the main forms of this protein in dietary supplements.
