It is a known fact that most women care deeply about their appearance and retaining a youthful vibrant complexion well into their later years.
Collagen supplements have been extremely popular, promising longer thicker hair, clear, smooth and brighter complexion as well as strong healthy nails and some with added benefits of increased gut health.
So what is collagen and how can taking this supplement improve your health and well-being?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, it's one of the major building blocks of skin, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. In simpler terms, it's basically the 'glue' that holds everything in your body together.
How many types of collagen is there?
There are 3 main types of collagen:
Type I Collagen - Found in Marine (fish) Collagen and also present in smaller amounts in Porcine (pig) Collagen and some forms of Bovine (cattle) Collagen.
Type I makes up 90% of the collagen found in your skin, hair, nails, bone, muscles, ligaments and tendons. For skin and beauty applications Type I Collagen is considered to be the best. Dermatology research with supplementation of collagen orally has shown that when Type I Collagen is increased, there are visible improvements in the appearance of your skin.
Type II Collagen - Chicken Collagen and Bovine Collagen from cartilage.
Type II Collagen makes up the fluids and function of the cartilage and joints in the body. It's main supplemental purpose is for the treatment of joint pain and arthritic conditions, as well as for a dietary protein source. Type II Collagen makes up 10% of the total collagen in the body and up to 60% of the protein found specifically in our cartilage.
Type III Collagen - Found within type I collagen in Porcine (pig) Collagen and Bovine (cattle) Collagen if from the hide of bovine.
Type III Collagen is the second most abundant collagen; most commonly in tissues with elastic properties such as the skin, lungs, intestinal walls and the walls of blood vessels. It’s also found in fibrous protein in bone, cartilage, dentin (a strengthening coating on teeth), tendons, and other connective tissues.
How to choose the best type of Collagen for you
It’s always important to do your research before choosing the right dietary supplement for you. Based on your unique needs, condition, and lifestyle, certain types of collagen may be better than others. Always seek advice from your healthcare professional if you would like further help making your decision.
If you’re really focused on the beauty benefits, then marine collagen might be right for you. If gut health is something you’re concerned about then give bovine collagen a try, because it has both Types I and III.
Collagen types are most helpful to the part of the body they are found in, so pay attention to your needs and choose accordingly.
