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Undoubtedly, one of the best-known benefits of taking hydrolyzed collagen is for bone health and recovery from injuries and fractures. Behind that simple statement lies an important fact – collagen makes up 30% of the proteins in our body and forms our bones. That’s why we need to support the body’s own production of it in order to preserve our mobility. We naturally start losing it after age 25, and as we get older we become increasingly vulnerable both to injuries and to the effects of inactivity, a poor diet, and stress.
Bones = Collagen
Bones make up the body’s skeleton and serve 5 main functions: support, movement, protecting the organs, and acting as a calcium reserve. Cartilage serves as the base on which bone forms and covers its ends at the joints. Tendons connect muscles to bone, while ligaments connect bones to each other.
Bones contain 30-40% organic matter, 90% of which is type I collagen. Tendons are made up of 100% type I and III collagen. Cartilage is made up of 60% type II collagen.
Collagen has a triple-helix structure, which makes it a very strong molecule. It helps maintain the flexibility that’s important for responding to stress and strain. Collagen matters because it strengthens and reinforces the collagen matrix in cartilage and tendons, thereby reducing pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the affected area. It also supports recovery and the formation of new tissue.
Against Stiffness
Collagen reduces stiffness in the bones and joints. Knee pain is familiar to many people long before they reach an older age. Osteoarthritis affects our ability to perform everyday movements, which is why preventing and managing the pain also calls for taking a hydrolysate.
Louis Vlahos, an orthopedist from Pennsylvania, says: “Collagen supports the muscles and tendons and can help restore worn cartilage. That way, you fight some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis without serious side effects.” He adds that, as a side benefit, taking collagen peptides may also ease lower back pain, since it supports the vertebrae in the spine.
Against Bone Mass and Mineral Density Loss
Women going through menopause and post-menopause are vulnerable to bone conditions as a result of decreasing mineral density and bone mass loss. When collagen levels are low, bones become brittle.
Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone density and a higher risk of fractures, notes the online publication healthline.com. The publication cites a 12-month study among women who took calcium plus 5 g of collagen hydrolysate per day. The results showed that levels of the proteins responsible for breaking down bone structure dropped significantly compared to volunteers who took only calcium.
Similar studies show benefits for patients suffering from bone mineral density loss too. A medical study of 100 women shows that taking collagen peptides or hydrolyzed type I collagen over a 12-month period increases mineral density, such as calcium, by 7%, and improves the bone marker readings linked to osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Scientists believe this improvement is due to collagen’s well-known anabolic effect, which has also been demonstrated in muscle mass gains. The results appeared as early as the 3rd month and were maintained after the study ended.
Against Knee and Hip Pain
A clinical study on the effectiveness of hydrolyzed collagen for bone and joint pain in both athletes and ordinary people shows that taking the supplement daily for 12 weeks reduces discomfort by around 38-39%. The international Journal of Arthritis also notes several favorable side effects: increased bone strength and density. Study participants also reported less morning stiffness, less pain during movement, and improved overall mobility. The article notes that for people suffering from prolonged pain, the recommended hydrolysate dose is 10 g per day, dissolved in a drink in the morning.
Hydrolyzed Collagen – Long-Term Bone Care
Hydrolyzed collagen is one of the most accessible dietary supplements for maintaining bone health. It comes as a powder, has no taste or smell, dissolves in drinks, and can also be used in cooking.
The hydrolysate helps active athletes and anyone who wants to stay healthy for longer. It also has a positive effect on people with reduced activity levels. So, if you stick to the recommended dose, over the long run this supplement will add many more days to your calendar, for you and your family – walks, sporting achievements, gardening, and trips.
