As the headline states, collagen protein is one of the most abundant types of protein in the body. It is responsible for the structure of our hair, skin, nails, joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments. For this reason, getting a healthy amount of collagen in our diets is critical. Let's dive a little deeper on how a collagen supplement can help with all of these things, from the outside in.
Healthy Skin
While collagen protein comprises about 30% of the protein in our body, it is approximately 70% of our skin. Collagen is responsible for the elasticity of the skin, and may prevent premature aging.
Hair and Nails
Unlike skin, the primary protein found in hair is keratin. Many of the amino acids in keratin are also found in collagen, including the primary amino, proline. Another benefit to hair comes from the strengthening of the skin, which helps prevent thinning of hair follicles.
The benefits for nails are very similar, the two main proteins found in the nail bed are keratin and collagen. By increasing collagen protein intake, your body is better able to supply the necessary amino acids for healthy nails.
Tendons and Ligaments
Continuing a common theme, these connective tissues are made up in large part of collagen protein. When the body is lacking the necessary amino acids to form collagen, it is unable to properly supply the tendons and ligaments to repair them.
Bones and Joints
Without getting repetitive, collagen is clearly a very important protein in the body. It is also comprised of essential and non essential amino acids that can be difficult to consume in sufficient quantities through a regular diet. This is where supplementation of a collagen protein can be extremely beneficial. By supplying your body with enough of the collagen amino acids, you're allowing it the best chance to create the necessary proteins for hair, skin, nails, tendons, ligaments, bones, and joints, to remain as healthy as possible.
Types of Collagen
While there are around 20 different types of "collagen" protein in the body, around 80-90% of them are 3 types (conveniently named type I, type II, and type III)
So what is the difference?
Type I & III Collagen
Collagen types I & III are comprised of the amino acids most found in skin, hair, nails, muscles, and bones. These two types of collagen can be taken together.
Type II Collagen
Collagen type II helps mainly with the function of cartilage and joints. This should be taken separately from types I & III for optimal absorption.
Below are a few collagen supplements we carry. Check them out!
Allmax Nutrition Collagen Powder
Collagen Protein derived from Hydrolyzed Collagen Protein Peptides, giving you 9 g of protein in every scoop.
Vibrant Health Joint Vibrance Powder
While this isn't just a collagen powder, it does contain around 10 grams of collagen, along with many other ingredients designed to improve bone and joint health.
Carlson Labs Hair, Skin, & Nails Gummies
A quick and easy way to help improve the health of your hair, skin, and nails. Containing collagen, as well as Biotin, Zinc, Selenium, and other beneficial vitamins.
