If you're experiencing joint stiffness, pain, or reduced mobility, you're not alone. Millions of people worldwide seek effective ways to support joint health, especially as they age. Although most of the fuss being made about quality collagen supplements is due to its rejuvenating effect on skin which feeds into the highly profitable beauty sector, taking a collagen supplement for joints has become increasingly popular too as research has generally shown it to be effective, reliable and reasonably priced. But understanding the different forms and types of collagen can help you choose the most beneficial option—and avoid the ones which are over-hyped and over-priced.
"Collagen is the glue that holds your body together."
- Can Collagen Supplements Help Arthritis? Arthritis Foundation
Understanding Collagen and Joint Health
Collagen is a protein naturally produced by your body, crucial for maintaining the structure and elasticity of skin, bones, and joints. However, the body's ability to produce collagen declines significantly starting in your late twenties. After age 40, collagen production decreases by approximately 1% annually. Factors such as smoking, excessive sun exposure, poor diet, lack of sleep, and certain autoimmune conditions can accelerate this loss. Supplementing collagen can help counteract these effects, promoting joint health, flexibility, and comfort.
"Collagen has been extensively studied as a potential OA treatment. Research quality varies, but most findings are positive."
Can Collagen Supplements Help Arthritis? Arthritis Foundation
Hydrolyzed vs. Undenatured Collagen
There are two primary forms of collagen supplements:
- Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides): This type has been broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed molecules. It's commonly found in powder form and dissolves readily in beverages such as smoothies and coffee. Its effectiveness often depends on processing quality.
- Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II): Unlike hydrolyzed collagen, undenatured collagen hasn't been broken down or exposed to heat, acids, or enzymes. It's usually derived from chicken cartilage. Hydrolyzed collagen, however, can come from various animal sources, including bovine hides, bones, or scales from fish.
Why Choose Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen Types 1 and 3?
Hydrolyzed bovine collagen types 1 and 3 are particularly beneficial for joint health. Type 1 collagen, the most abundant in the body, supports joint strength, flexibility, and skin elasticity. Type 3 collagen supports overall connective tissue health, enhancing joint function and aiding recovery.
Studies show that hydrolyzed collagen peptides effectively support joint health and cartilage repair, reduce joint inflammation, and improve overall mobility. Additionally, hydrolyzed collagen is easier for the body to absorb, making it a highly efficient supplement for joint health.
Understanding Collagen Types 2 and 4
Scientists have identified at least 28 types of collagen, but typically, only types 1, 2, 3, and 4 appear in dietary supplements. Velvet Blend contains 10.4g of collagen types 1 and 3, but for balance it is good to be informed of the other 2 collagens most commonly marketed as supplements for joint health and mobility.
- Type 2 collagen: Represents about 90% of the collagen found in cartilage. It's particularly beneficial for supporting joint cartilage health, aiding mobility, and reducing joint-related discomfort. Type 2 collagen is most commonly found in undenatured form (UC-II).
- Type 4 collagen: Forms a thin layer of supportive tissue around cells, especially in organs such as kidneys, lungs, intestines, and eyes. It's essential for maintaining healthy cellular functions but is less directly connected to joint and cartilage health compared to types 1, 2, and 3.
Proven Benefits of Hydrolyzed Collagen for Joints
Clinical studies consistently show that regular supplementation with hydrolyzed collagen types 1 and 3 can:
- Significantly reduce joint pain and stiffness.
- Improve flexibility and range of motion.
- Promote cartilage regeneration.
- Support overall joint and bone health.
- Improve skin elasticity and hydration, reducing visible aging signs.
How to Integrate Collagen into Your Daily Routine
Incorporating hydrolyzed bovine collagen types 1 and 3 into your diet is simple. Mix 10—20 grams daily into your favorite beverages or meals, such as coffee, smoothies, oatmeal, or soups, for optimal results.
Quality Matters
Ensure your collagen supplement is hydrolyzed and sourced from healthy, grass-fed cattle. Quality sourcing guarantees a potent, pure, and safe product that effectively supports your joint health. Most collagen supplements do contain what they say in the label—i.e. collagen; it's rare that collagen supplements are found to be fake, phony or contaminated, perhaps because it is relatively easy to produce. Now that collagen is almost universally known and used, brands are distinguishing themselves through marketing. As a savvy consumer it pays to keep a watch on this because while there absolutely are differences in the quality of collagen between brands, high price tags don't necessarily mean high quality. Along with the production process, the source of the ingredients is what ultimately determines the quality of the collagen available.
If you're vegan or vegetarian note that collagen supplements always come from animals. Plant based 'collagen' supplements contain key nutrients required to make collagen—like vitamin C and zinc, but plants don’t contain collagen. So if you're 'flexitarian' and willing to add some meat to your diet—so long as animal welfare factors into the ethos of the supplement producer whose product you're thinking of buying, do your research and ensure that the supplement has been sourced with animal welfare given the consideration it deserves by the supplement brand.
Invest in Your Joint Health
Choosing a high-quality hydrolyzed bovine collagen supplement high in types 1 and 3 supports healthier joints and improved quality of life. Collagen is just one of the proteins, amino acids and natural compounds contained in Velvet Blend, alongside deer velvet, glucosamine and chondroitin to name a few. Velvet Blend is intended as a multifunctional dietary supplement, which also means multiple benefits—both inside and out. Meal replacement is one of Velvet Blend's many uses, which is great for both weight loss or muscle gain.
More news and views are available here on our blog. Or to order your first box of Velvet Blend and take the first step in feeling stronger, more mobile, and confidently active—because healthier joints mean enjoying life to the fullest—click here.
Thanks to the Arthritis Foundation whose research and articles have informed much of our own decisions and articles, including this one.