Collagen is a protein found in almost every part of the body, including skin, bones, joints, muscles, and tendons. In fact, 30% of all proteins in the human body are made up of collagen.
The function of collagen is to provide flexibility and cohesion, that is, it keeps them together and elastic.
Unlike vitamins and minerals, it’s not difficult to get collagen through food because collagen is found in indigestible areas like your skin and bones.
There are more than 20 types of collagen, however, the best known are type I, II and III.
- Type I: It is the most abundant type and we find it in the skin. Also in bones and tendons. Among its main functions is to give elasticity and resistance, as well as it has a support function.
- Type II: Found in joints and cartilage. It is a flexible and strong tissue that covers the joints. It provides resistance and helps to lubricate these tissues that are under constant pressure.
- Type III: It is a larger molecule than the previous two and is closely related to type I. It is present in muscles, blood vessels, and the lining of the intestines. We can also find it in the skin. It is responsible for supporting the organs.
As a curiosity, type I and type III collagen have to be hydrolyzed. This is because it is a very large molecule and our body is not able to digest it. Hydrolyzed collagen is a type of collagen which has been processed and cut into small particles so that it can be easily absorbed. Once ingested, this collagen is able to gather and recreate its original shape so that it fulfills its function. Type II collagen, however, has to be native, meaning it works best if it’s unprocessed.
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