Best Collagen Supplements for Joints

Collagen is a hard and fibrous protein present in almost all connective tissues. It helps build bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles, cartilages, hair, skin, nails, etc.

With age, the body starts to reduce its collagen production. This results in the disintegration of the structures that are supported by collagen. Joint health is largely affected, resulting in pain and inflammation.

Collagen supplements can offer considerable improvement to joint-related wear and tear. But it's essential to get the right type of collagen supplements to improve joint health.

Types of Collagen

The human body contains around 28 types of collagen. However, five of them are considered more important. These are:

• Type I collagen This collagen type is used in scar tissue, tendons, ligaments, bones, skin, arteries, and teeth. It is the most robust and abundant form of collagen in the body and is typically found in connective tissues.
• Type II collagen This collagen consists of loosely packed fibers found in soft and elastic cartilages. They cushion the joints.
• Type III collagen It is mainly used in the mesh around the liver, bone marrow, arteries, and lymph.
• Type IV collagen This collagen is used in respiratory tract tissue, intestines, tissue around the heart, and digestive system tissue.
• Type V collagen It is mainly used in hair and cell surfaces.

The most common types of collagen supplements found on the market are marine collagen and bovine collagen.

Which Type of Collagen Is Best for Joint Health?

For joint health, the cartilage that provides a cushion to the bones is of utmost importance. Type II collagen is the best form of collagen for joints.

Type II collagen is generally sourced from fish cartilage (1). Marine collagen also contains collagen types I and III. Marine collagen has much higher bioavailability than other collagen sources.

Approved Science® Collagen Pills are derived from wild Alaskan pollock and BioPerine®. These pills have hydrolyzed collagen peptides which get easily absorbed across the intestinal barrier due to their small molecular size. Our bodies are then able to reconstruct the collagen when and where required.

Hydrolyzed collagen supplements have been found to improve activity-related joint pain in athletes (2). Hydrolyzed collagen (Type II) supported joint health and reduced the risk of joint deterioration in a high-risk group. It can also be used to improve and manage symptoms of osteoarthritis.