Collagen has revolutionized the world of skin health and beauty in recent years. This vital protein, which is found in our body's natural structure, attracts great interest as a supplement due to it's decreasing production with age. Research shows that regular collagen use gives the skin elasticity, increases moisture content and visibly reduces the signs of aging. Moreover, it also provides effective support for strong nails and healthy hair. All these benefits make collagen an essential part of modern beauty and health routines.
But what exactly is collagen? How many different types are there and which type is the most effective? Let's take a closer look at this topic in more detail.
What is collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the body and holds connective tissues together, forming the basic component of skin, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It acts like a “glue” that provides the body with strength and elasticity. It plays an important role in many vital processes, from the firmness of the skin to the mobility of joints.
What is collagen made of?
Collagen is mainly composed of amino acids. In particular, amino acids such as glycine, proline, hydroxyproline and arginine are the building blocks of collagen. These amino acids are used in connective tissues to build the proteins the body needs.
What is Marine Collagen?
Marine collagen is a protein obtained from fish skin and scales, especially rich in Type 1 collagen. Thanks to its small molecular structure, it is quickly absorbed by the body and makes important contributions to skin, hair and nail health. Advantages:
- High Absorption: Fast bioavailability with its small molecule structure.
- Skin Health: Firms, moisturizes and reduces fine lines.
- Natural and Pure: Derived from fish, it is pure and low in fat.
Marine collagen offers effective support in skin care by reducing the signs of aging with regular use.
What are the Types of Collagen?
Collagen is found in various types that serve different tissues in the body. Although more than 28 types have been identified so far, there are 3 main types of collagen that are the most common in our body and the most researched:
- TYPE I:
Most Abundant Species: Makes up about 90% of the body's collagen.
Functions: Provides structural strength to skin, bone, tendons, ligaments and teeth. Benefits:
Tightens the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- TYPE II:
Dense in cartilage tissue.
Functions: Increases the durability of joints and cartilage, reduces friction.
Benefits: It is especially used in supplement form to support joint health.
- TYPE III:
Muscles, vessels and supporting structure of organs.
Functions: Improves skin elasticity and strengthens the structure of the vessels.
Benefits: Supports skin and connective tissue health by working together with type I collagen.
What is Marine Collagen Made From?
Collagen is a type of protein found in the connective tissues of animal foods. The most common sources of collagen are marine and bovine collagen. Marine collagen is obtained as a by-product of the fishing industry. Fish from sustainable sources and farmed on the high seas are skinned after filleting. These fish skins are processed to extract collagen peptides. These peptides are then further strengthened through a process called hydrolyzation. Hydrolyzation breaks down the collagen peptides into smaller, easily absorbed amino acids, which increases the effectiveness of collagen supplements. The result is pure and powerful marine collagen supplements.
What is the Best Type of Collagen to Take?
When it comes to collagen supplements, bioavailability, absorption rate, and efficacy play critical roles in determining the best options. Besides the type of collagen, there are some important factors that ensure success in use.
Bioavailabity is Important
When taking collagen supplements, the bioavailability of the species is an important determinant. Marine collagen is usually absorbed 1.5 times faster and more efficiently than collagen of bovine or porcine origin. This ensures that more active collagen peptides are utilized in the body and increases the effectiveness of the supplement. High bioavailability allows the supplement to deliver results quickly and effectively
Advantage Of Hydrolyzed Collagen
Hydrolyzation is a natural process that breaks down collagen peptides into smaller molecules. This process increases the digestibility of collagen, allowing it to be absorbed faster by the body. Thanks to its smaller molecule structure, hydrolyzed collagen acts faster and reaches areas such as skin, hair and nails faster. Low molecular weight collagen is known to show its effect in a short time.