Collagen is the most important protein in the human body. Among other things, it is responsible for skin firmness, joint elasticity, and tissue health. It is worth understanding its secrets to consciously support the body in its natural production and benefit from its extraordinary properties.
What is collagen?
Collagen is a structural protein, constituting about 30% of all proteins in the human body. It is the main component of the extracellular matrix, which forms a specific scaffold for tissues and organs. Its fibrous structure provides connective tissues such as skin, bones, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments with extraordinary tensile strength and elasticity. It acts as a binder that holds cells together, ensuring the structural integrity of the entire organism. Without it, the body would literally fall apart. The synthesis of this protein is a complex process that slows down with age.
Its presence is essential for the proper functioning of many systems:
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it forms a dense network of fibers in the dermis, which ensures its firmness, tension, and smoothness;
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in the skeletal system, collagen forms an organic framework on which minerals such as calcium and phosphorus are deposited, giving bones both hardness and a certain elasticity, protecting them against fractures;
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in articular cartilage, it is responsible for its cushioning and abrasion resistance, enabling smooth movement;
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it is also an important component of blood vessel walls, providing them with strength and elasticity, as well as the cornea of the eye.
What are the types of collagen?
To date, at least 28 different types of collagen have been identified in the human body, differing in structure, location, and function. However, types I to V are the most widespread and best studied. Type I collagen is the most abundant type, accounting for about 90% of all collagen in the body. It builds skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and dentin. Type II collagen is the main component of articular cartilage, responsible for its pressure resistance and cushioning. In turn, type III collagen occurs together with type I, supporting the structure of muscles, internal organs, arteries, and blood vessels.
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Collagen type |
Main site of occurrence |
Key functions and properties |
|
Type I |
Skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, dentin, cornea |
Accounts for approx. 90% of all collagen in the body; provides tensile strength, elasticity, and structural integrity. |
|
Type II |
Articular cartilage, vitreous body of the eye |
Responsible for cushioning, joint resistance to compression and friction, and their elasticity. |
|
Type III |
Skin, blood vessels, internal organs (e.g., lungs, liver) |
Supports the structure of soft tissues, provides them with elasticity; participates in the initial process of wound healing. |
|
Type IV |
Basement membranes (thin layers separating tissues) |
Forms a scaffold for cells. |
|
Type V |
Cell surfaces, hair, placenta, skin, bones |
Regulates the formation of type I and III collagen fibers; participates in tissue building. |
What does collagen supplementation help with?
Supplementation with hydrolyzed collagen, i.e., protein broken down into smaller peptides, can bring tangible benefits to skin appearance. Supplying the body with ready-made "building blocks" in the form of bioactive collagen peptides stimulates fibroblasts to increase their own collagen production. Clinical studies indicate that regular intake of collagen preparations can lead to improved skin hydration and elasticity, as well as a reduction in the visibility of fine wrinkles¹. The result is a firmer, smoother, and more radiant complexion.
In addition to skin benefits, collagen supplementation has proven positive effects on the musculoskeletal system. Collagen peptides can accumulate in articular cartilage, supporting its regeneration and inhibiting degradation processes. This can lead to a reduction in joint pain, improved mobility, and slowed progression of degenerative changes. Moreover, by providing amino acids that build the organic framework of bones, collagen can support the maintenance of proper bone mineral density, which is important in the prevention of osteoporosis.
What are the effects of collagen deficiency?
A decrease in natural collagen production, which begins around the age of 25 and intensifies with age, leads to a series of visible symptoms:
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the skin loses its density and elasticity, becoming thinner, drier, and more flaccid;
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wrinkles and furrows appear, and the facial oval loses its distinctiveness;
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hair also weakens, becoming thinner and more brittle.
These aesthetic changes are the first and most obvious sign that the body's collagen pool is beginning to deplete. This process can be accelerated by external factors, such as UV radiation. The consequences of collagen deficiency affect not only appearance but, above all, physical performance. A reduced amount of this protein in articular cartilage leads to its abrasion, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited joint mobility – these are typical symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Weakening of collagen fibers in tendons and ligaments increases the risk of injuries. The condition of bones also deteriorates, making them more prone to fractures. Moreover, wound healing and tissue regeneration processes slow down, as there is a lack of basic building material for reconstructing damaged structures.
What are the sources of collagen in the diet?
The richest and most direct source of collagen in food are animal products rich in connective tissue. Long-cooked bone and cartilage broths, meat and fish jellies, as well as dishes containing skin (e.g., fish), chicken feet, or offal are natural ways to provide this protein. Edible gelatin is also a source, although it is a product of partial collagen hydrolysis. However, it is worth remembering that collagen in this form has a high molecular weight, which may limit its absorption compared to hydrolyzed forms. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to eatyx LABS Collagen Premium 16,000 mg, which is a collagen shot containing as much as 16,000 mg of hydrolyzed bovine collagen with molecules of 2–4 kDa.
In addition to direct collagen intake, it is important to provide the body with ingredients necessary for its own synthesis. Absolutely essential is vitamin C, which can be found in bell peppers, parsley, blackcurrants, citrus fruits, and kiwi. eatyx LABS drinking collagen is also enriched with it.
Is collagen safe for everyone?
Collagen, as a naturally occurring protein in the body, is generally considered safe for most people. Dietary supplements containing hydrolyzed collagen are well tolerated and rarely cause side effects. However, it is important to choose products from reputable manufacturers that have been adequately tested.
The main contraindication to using collagen supplements is an allergy to its source. People allergic to fish and seafood should avoid marine collagen – bovine collagen, however, does not have such high allergenic potential. It is always worth carefully checking the product label. Caution should also be exercised by people with kidney disease, liver disease, or other conditions requiring a protein-restricted diet – in such cases, supplementation should be strictly consulted with the attending physician. The same applies to pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How to choose the right collagen?
When choosing a supplement, the form of collagen matters. Hydrolyzed collagen is characterized by the best absorption. In the hydrolysis process, long protein chains are broken down into short fragments, which can then be utilized by the body. Their low molecular weight (usually below 5 kDa) makes them effective. Gelatin, although a source of collagen amino acids, has much larger molecules and is more difficult to absorb.
When choosing a preparation, it is worth paying attention to several aspects:
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Firstly, the source of origin (marine, bovine), which can be matched to individual preferences and possible allergies;
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Secondly, the presence of additional active ingredients that enhance the effect. Ideal supplements often combine collagen peptides with vitamin C or B vitamins, creating a comprehensive formula that supports skin, hair, and joints.
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It is also necessary to verify the dose of collagen per serving – one bottle (80 ml) of eatyx LABS Collagen Premium 16000 mg contains an optimal serving for an average person.
¹ Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/
