Collagen is a protein that is a key component of connective tissues in the body, including skin, bones, ligaments, tendons, and blood vessels¹. It provides structural support and elasticity, enabling tissues to withstand stretching and other mechanical forces¹. Collagen makes up approximately 30% of the body's protein content and is composed of four amino acids: proline, glycine, lysine, and hydroxyproline¹.

As people age, the body's ability to produce collagen decreases, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles and joint discomfort¹. Collagen supplements have gained popularity for their purported benefits, which include improved skin elasticity, joint health, and reduced signs of aging¹².

There are different types of collagen (29 types identified), but the most common ones found in supplements are:

• Type I: Found in skin, tendons, and bones; commonly sourced from bovine and fish.
• Type II: Found in cartilage; commonly sourced from chicken cartilage.
• Type III: Found in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs; commonly sourced from bovine¹².

Collagen supplements usually come in the form of hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides, which are broken down collagen proteins that are easier for the body to absorb². Studies have suggested that these supplements can improve skin hydration, elasticity, and reduce wrinkles².

However, it's important to note that the scientific evidence supporting some of these benefits is still limited and sometimes industry-funded, which can create potential conflicts of interest²³. Additionally, the full absorption and utilization of collagen supplements by the body remain areas of ongoing research¹.

Footnotes

1. Mayo Clinic ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵ ↩⁶ ↩⁷

2. A systematic review of collagen for skin anti-aging ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵

3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health ↩