Joints are bone-like unions, covered with fluid and soft tissue called cartilage. Cartilage is essential in protecting joints by acting as shock absorbers. As part of daily activities and movements, such as walking, running, or exercising, cartilage tends to wear down naturally, causing friction between bones. If this wear is excessive, it can cause mobility problems and pain.
Since cartilage is mainly composed of collagen, it is easy to recognize how collagen supplementation may be advisable for the prevention and regeneration of this tissue.
Importance of Collagen in Joints
Collagen is a fundamental protein in the human body, present in various tissues such as bones, tendons, ligaments and cartilage. This compound is essential for maintaining the structure and function of joints.
The benefits of collagen include:
- Promote the regeneration of cartilage, tendons and bones
- Contribute to improving mobility
- Prevent and assist in the rehabilitation of sports injuries
- Reduce joint pain
- Nourish hair, nails and skin
Although collagen is often referred to in the singular, there are many different types, depending on the tissue they form within the body. In other words, the collagen that makes up the skin is not the same as the collagen that makes up cartilage. So when purchasing a product containing collagen, it is important to pay attention to its recommended use and the type or types of collagen it is made of.
Hydrolyzed collagen
Why is it important to differentiate between collagen and hydrolyzed collagen? It's simple: the body must be able to absorb the nutrient in order to use it, which is why collagen needs to be hydrolyzed. This process makes it assimilable to the body.
Where collagen comes from
There are many possible sources of this compound: it can be bovine, porcine, chicken, obtained from eggshells or marine origin. But this does not matter in general terms. The most important thing is that it is hydrolyzed collagen and that it is the correct type for the tissue that is to be supplemented.
Friends of collagen
Although we have already clarified that collagen is essential for joints, it can be helped by other ingredients to work better together. For example, vitamin C, which is involved in collagen synthesis, can be a good companion for collagen consumption. Protein intake is also important to help the effect of supplementation. In the case of minerals, magnesium is part of protein synthesis and its consumption is also beneficial for maintaining bones.
Recommended products
At our health food store, we offer a variety of high-quality collagen products to help you take advantage of its benefits:
Collagen plays a vital role in joint and skin health, and is essential for maintaining mobility. By knowing the specific types of collagen and associated nutrients, it is possible to select the most appropriate supplement to support the function and regeneration of specific tissues such as joints, skin and bones.