Decoding Collagen: A Guide to the Different Types and Their Benefits

Collagen stands as a superstar protein, providing a basis for healthy, vibrant skin, strong hair, flexible joints, and strong bones. Yet, it is fascinating to learn that not all collagens are alike. In fact, many have been discovered, and each possesses its individual character and purpose. Learning about these differences can inform your selection of an ideal collagen supplement specific to your beauty and wellness concerns.

What Is Collagen, Once Again? (A Quick Recap)

Collagen, in fact, holds the title of most common protein in our bodies, acting as a supportive infrastructure for many types of tissue. It works in a manner similar to a kind of scaffolding, offering durability, elasticity, and a supporting function. As years go by, our stores of naturally produced collagen break down, and age-related symptoms become increasingly apparent. Supplementing with collagen can replete stores and promote overall wellness.

The Sides of Collagen: An Exploration of Varieties

Although numerous types of collagen have been discovered, a few in particular stand out in supplements: 

Type I Collagen: Most abundant in our bodies, Type I constitutes about 90% of our stores of collagen. It acts as a general building block for skin, hair, nails, cartilage, ligaments, and bones. Known for its elasticity and durability, Type I collagen helps promote healthy, vibrant skin and strong, flexible connective tissue. Demand for it is particularly high in beauty supplements.

Type II Collagen: Found most predominantly in cartilage, Type II collagen confers both supportive and elastic functions in joints. It is in high demand for caring for joints, providing comfort and ease for aches and pains of osteoarthritis, for example.

Type III Collagen complements Type I collagen, lending its support to healthy, ageless skin and its elasticity. Present in both blood vessels and in muscles, it helps contribute towards a healthy, ageless glow and protects the integrity of important organs.

Type IV Collagen is present in the basement membranes—thin layers of tissue supporting and defining types of cells. It helps filter and in healing wounds, and, although not a single-source constituent in supplements, its role in tissue integrity must not be overlooked.

Type V Collagen helps form part of the collagen fibrils, providing a basis for collagen fibres to form and bind together a variety of tissue structures together.

What Each Type Does:

Type I: Maintains healthy, ageless skin, healthy hair and nails, and ensures ligaments, tendons, and bones have integrity.

Type II: Maintains healthy joints, strengthens cartilage, and reduces joint aches and inflammation.

Type III: Maintains healthy, ageless elasticity in skin, together with supporting blood vessels and muscles, for an eternal glow.

Type IV: Maintains tissue integrity, aids in filtering, and helps in healing wounds.

Type V: Helps maintain structure and integrity in a variety of tissue types.

The Ideal Collagen Supplement:

Many supplements utilize a mixture of types, providing a full range of benefits. That being said, in case a specific concern in mind, one can choose to target a specific type. For a concern with healthy joints, for example, a Type II collagen could be best for your requirements. In developing healthy skin and hair, both Types I and III are often preferred options.

Viking Remedies: Quality Collagen for Every Need:

At Viking Remedies, we understand the importance of choosing the correct collagen. We have a high-quality blend of types I and III collagen supplements designed to promote your overall wellness and allow you to realise your beauty goals. Our hydrolysed collagen peptides ensure full absorption, allowing you to gain all the numerous benefits of this valuable protein. We're committed to producing high-quality items that actually deliver on their function.

Going Beyond Collagen Type: What Else Do I Need to Know?

Hydrolysed Collagen: Always go for hydrolysed collagen peptides for best absorption.

High-Quality Ingredients: Look for a brand providing high-quality, responsibly produced ingredients only.
Third-Party Testing: Opt for supplements that have gone through thorough testing by a third party for purity, effectiveness, and security.
Highest Manufacturing Practices: Opt for a brand that takes high standards in its production processes.