What is collagen?
Collagen is a crucial fibrous protein found in the human body and many animals. It is one of the main structural proteins of connective tissue, which plays an essential role in the formation, stability and integrity of different tissues in the body. In fact, collagen represents almost a third of all proteins present in the body, so we ourselves are a good reserve of this active ingredient.
Collagen is mainly found in the following tissues:
At the Skin level : It ensures the resistance and elasticity of the skin, contributing to its structure and youthful appearance.
At the level of the Joints : It is essential for the health and mobility of the joints, because it acts as a shock absorber between the bones and supports the cartilage.
At the bone level : It gives bones their strength and flexibility, allowing them to resist external forces without breaking easily.
At the level of Tendons and ligaments : It provides the strength and flexibility necessary to connect muscles to bones (tendons) and to hold joints in place (ligaments).
At the internal organs level : It ensures the structure and stability of internal organs such as the liver, kidneys and lungs.
Collagen is synthesized by specialized cells called fibroblasts, found in connective tissues. There are different types of collagen, each responsible for specific functions in different tissues. Among the many types of collagen, type I is the most abundant in the human body and is found particularly in skin, tendons, bones and connective tissues. Other types of collagen, such as type II, type III, etc., play important roles in other parts of the body as we will see later.
As we age, natural collagen production declines, which can lead to loss of skin firmness, joint pain, and other aging-related problems. This is why collagen has become a popular ingredient in skin care products and dietary supplements to support overall health and improve the appearance of skin.
The different types of collagen
There are several types of collagen found in the human body, each with specific roles in different tissues and structures. Currently, at least 28 types of collagen are known, but types I, II, III, IV and V are the most common and best studied. Here is a brief description of these types of collagen and their main locations in the body:
Type I collagen: Location: Skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, tooth dentin. Role: It is the most abundant type of collagen in the body and provides strength and stability to tissues, particularly in skin, bones and tendons. This is the one we also use in Kolaflex , our collagen powder with magnesium and natural vitamin C (acerola).
Type II collagen: Location: Hyaline cartilage (the type of cartilage present in joints). Role: It gives cartilage its resilient and elastic properties, which allows joints to resist compressive forces.
Type III collagen : Location: Wall of blood vessels, skin, muscles, intestines, embryonic tissues. Role: It is often associated with type I collagen and plays a role in the flexibility and extensibility of tissues, particularly in blood vessels and internal organs.
Type IV collagen : Location: Basal membrane (important constituent of the basement membrane, which separates the layers of tissues in the body). Role: It plays a crucial structural role in the filtration function of basement membranes, particularly in the kidneys and lungs.
Type V collagen : Location: Cell surface, placenta, hair. Role: It plays an important role in regulating the organization of type I collagen fibers, thus contributing to tissue formation.
Each type of collagen has a specific molecular composition that gives it unique properties. These different compositions allow it to fulfill various functions, ranging from structural support to resistance to mechanical tensions. Depending on their properties, certain types of collagen are used in medical and cosmetic applications to support the health and beauty of the body. Each collagen also has a particular bioavailability and not all are equal. So be careful to choose your collagen carefully.
Natural sources of collagen
The main natural sources of collagen generally come from the connective tissues and bones of animals. Here are some of the most common sources of collagen:
Animal meat: The skins, bones and connective tissues of animals are rich in collagen. Meats containing bones, such as marrow bones, ribs, shanks and trotters, are particularly rich in collagen. But also Bone Broth: Cooking animal bones for a long time in water allows the collagen to be extracted, forming a broth rich in nutrients and gelatin. Even if these products are perfectly authorized, we have decided at Stimium to move towards marine collagen, and also, for our gums , towards pectin bases, or even prebiotics , rather on traditional gelatin bases, than we find in particular in our favorite Haribo candies for example!
Fish: Fish skin and scales also contain collagen, particularly type I collagen. More generally in Seafood: Sources such as fish skins, shark fins and ray cartilages contain collagen.
It is important to note that collagen extracted from animal sources must undergo a processing process to be transformed into dietary supplements or cosmetic ingredients. Collagen supplements are often available in powder, capsule, or liquid form, while cosmetic products may contain collagen extracts for skin care.
The benefits of collagen for the skin.
If for Kolaflex we mainly targeted people suffering from joint and ligament pain, we also have a large number of positive feedback when it comes to the use of marine collagen for its benefits on the skin, for both men and women.
Improved skin elasticity and firmness
Collagen plays a key role in improving skin elasticity and firmness. As we age, natural collagen production decreases, leading to the loss of these essential skin properties. By consuming collagen supplements or using skin care products containing collagen, it is possible to stimulate the synthesis of new collagen fibers in the skin. This helps strengthen the structure of the dermis, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve the overall texture of the skin, and leave it looking firmer, smoother and more youthful. In addition, collagen helps maintain adequate hydration of the skin, thus strengthening its protective barrier and protecting it against external aggressions, for radiant and elastic skin.
Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
Collagen has significant benefits for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. As we age, natural collagen production decreases, leading to breakdown of skin structure and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. By consuming collagen supplements or using skin care products containing collagen, it is possible to stimulate the regeneration of collagen fibers in the skin. This improves skin density and firmness, smoothes existing wrinkles and reduces the appearance of new lines and wrinkles. Collagen also promotes better hydration of the skin, contributing to a smoother, younger and more radiant appearance of the face, while decreasing the visible signs of skin aging.
Hydration and maintenance of skin moisture
The benefits of collagen on hydrating and maintaining skin moisture are essential for healthy, glowing skin. By stimulating collagen production, collagen supplements or collagen-enriched skin care products strengthen the skin barrier, which helps retain moisture in the skin. This improves the hydration of the skin, thus protecting it against dryness and external aggressions. As a result, skin appears softer, more supple and more luminous, while reducing signs of dehydration such as fine lines and skin roughness. Collagen therefore plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's moisture balance, promoting a radiant appearance and smoother texture.
The benefits of collagen for joints
Cartilage support and protection
Collagen provides important benefits for supporting and protecting cartilage. Cartilage, present in joints, acts as a shock absorber between bones, allowing smooth, pain-free movement. With age or joint problems, the breakdown of collagen in cartilage can lead to loss of strength and reduced joint function. By taking collagen supplements or using products that stimulate collagen synthesis, it is possible to strengthen cartilage, improving its structure and resilience. This helps preserve joint mobility, reduce joint pain and protect joints against excessive wear, thus promoting a better quality of life and greater flexibility in movement. In addition to Kolaflex , we also find collagen in the Stimium range in Joint Flex , ultra-dose capsules including Glucosamine, Chondroitin, L-methionine, vitamin C but also ginger, turmeric and even Hyaluronic acid which contributes to joint mobility.
Reduction of joint pain
The benefits of collagen in reducing joint pain are significant. Collagen is an essential component of cartilage, the tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints. By taking collagen supplements or using products that promote collagen synthesis, one can support cartilage health and regeneration, thereby reducing joint wear and inflammation. This can lead to reduced joint pain, better mobility and greater flexibility, leading to improved quality of life in people with osteoarthritis, arthritis or age-related joint problems. physical activity. Collagen therefore acts as a natural ally to maintain joint health and comfort. Kolaflex treatment significantly reduces joint pain after a 3-week treatment.
Improved mobility and flexibility
Improving mobility and flexibility is one of the key benefits of collagen. By supporting joint health and promoting cartilage regeneration, collagen helps reduce joint pain and inflammation, allowing for better range of motion and flexibility. By strengthening joint structures, collagen helps preserve joint functionality and facilitate body movement. This improvement in mobility is particularly beneficial for people suffering from chronic joint conditions, age-related pain or joint injuries, allowing them to maintain an active lifestyle and enjoy a better quality of life overall.
The benefits of collagen for hair and nails
Hair strengthening and breakage prevention
Collagen provides significant benefits for strengthening hair and preventing hair breakage. By strengthening the structure of hair follicles and the scalp, collagen helps improve the strength and density of hair, reducing its brittleness and tendency to break. By promoting the synthesis of new hair proteins, collagen also helps improve the overall quality of hair, making it shinier, thicker, and less prone to damage from environmental factors or harsh hair treatments. Thanks to its nourishing and protective properties, collagen supports hair health, providing hair that is stronger, more resilient and less prone to breakage, for healthier, more beautiful hair.
Improved nail quality
Collagen has notable benefits for improving the quality and strength of nails. By strengthening the nail matrix, collagen helps prevent breakage, flaking and weak nails. By promoting cell regeneration and increasing the protein content of nails, collagen contributes to their healthy growth, smoother appearance and increased strength. These positive effects of collagen on the nails allow you to have more beautiful, stronger nails and less prone to fragility problems, for hands that look neat and healthy.
The benefits of collagen for overall health
Digestive Health Support
The digestive health benefits of collagen are linked to its content of specific amino acids, such as glycine and glutamine, which support the intestinal lining and help repair damaged digestive tissues. By strengthening the intestinal barrier, collagen helps prevent unwanted particles from leaking into the bloodstream, thereby reducing inflammation and unwanted immune reactions. This may be particularly beneficial for people suffering from leaky gut syndrome or other digestive issues. Additionally, collagen facilitates the digestion of proteins and fats, contributing to better assimilation of essential nutrients for optimal digestive health. These properties make collagen a valuable ally to support healthy and balanced digestion.
Strengthening the immune system
The benefits of collagen on the immune system are linked to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to support mucosal health. Due to its amino acid composition, including glycine, proline, and arginine, collagen helps regulate inflammation in the body, promoting healthy immune balance. In addition, collagen contributes to the strengthening of mucous membranes, such as those of the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, which act as a first line of defense against pathogens. By supporting these mucosal barriers, collagen helps prevent the intrusion of bacteria, viruses and other harmful substances into the body, thereby strengthening the immune system and promoting a better response to infections. Overall, collagen plays an important role in maintaining a robust and balanced immune system, essential for protecting the body against disease and promoting optimal health.
Contribution to bone and muscle health
The bone and muscle health benefits of collagen are essential for maintaining the strength and functionality of the musculoskeletal system. Collagen is a major component of bone structure, providing strength and flexibility to bones. By stimulating collagen synthesis, collagen supplements help preserve bone density, thereby reducing the risk of bone fragility and osteoporosis. Additionally, collagen promotes muscle tissue regeneration, supporting muscle growth and aiding recovery after exercise. This helps maintain muscle strength and mobility, contributing to better posture, greater stability and a reduced risk of muscle injuries. By supporting both bones and muscles, collagen plays a crucial role for optimal musculoskeletal health, enabling a better quality of life and lasting physical activity.
Marine collagen vs bovine collagen
Marine collagen and bovine collagen are two types of collagen that come from different sources and have some differences in their characteristics and uses.
Marine collagen:
Source: Marine collagen is extracted from the skin and scales of fish such as cod, salmon or trout.
Characteristics: It is mainly composed of type I collagen, which is the most abundant type of collagen in the human body and is found especially in skin, bones and tendons.
Benefits: Marine collagen is often considered to be more bioavailable, meaning it is better absorbed by the body, compared to some other sources of collagen.
Use: Marine collagen is frequently used in dietary supplements and skin care products for its benefits on skin, hair, nails and joints.
Bovine collagen:
Source: Bovine collagen comes from the skin and bones of beef.
Characteristics: It is also primarily composed of type I collagen, making it a similar choice to marine collagen in terms of composition.
Use: Bovine collagen is often used in dietary supplements for its benefits on skin, joints and overall health.
The choice between marine collagen and bovine collagen generally depends on personal preferences, specific needs and individual considerations. Some may prefer marine collagen due to its supposed bioavailability, while others may opt for bovine collagen based on its availability or specific benefits. In any case, it is important to choose quality products, from safe sources and manufactured by reputable companies to achieve the best results.
What is the recommended dosage
The recommended daily dose for collagen may vary depending on the type of collagen supplement, the form in which it is consumed, and the specific goals of the individual. However, in general, the recommended daily dose for collagen supplements is usually between 2.5 grams to 10 grams.
Everything, everything, everything you know everything about collagen. No more joint pain!
