Collagen is the glue that holds our bodies together. Even its name comes from the Greek word kolla, meaning glue. Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the body and there are about fourteen known types. This protein is the major component in the connective tissues of the body. It also give skin, hair and nails thickness and strength. Because of its importance to our overall health it’s no wonder an entire industry has sprung up around collagen supplements.

Collagen depletion can cause numerous problems because it affects so many areas of our body. As we lose collagen, our skin thins out and wrinkles develop. As connective tissue degenerates it leaves our joints unprotected, allowing them to rub against each other, causing pain, bone erosion and inflammation. If this process isn’t stopped or slowed it can result in damage and a permanent crippling disability. Collagen supplements come in many forms, including pills, injections and liquids. These supplements promise to compensate for age related collagen reduction. They claim to slow down or stop the aging process by replacing the lost collagen. They are manufactured in different ways, but generally are processed from the tissues of cows, pigs, chickens and even fish.

There are three main types of collagen, type one, two and three. Type two collagen supplements have the most clinical data behind them and are used for people who want to build strength and stability in their joints. It’s the type of protein that your body uses to repair and maintain the cartilage and tendons in your body. This usage of collagen supplements shows the most promise.

The least promising use of collagen supplements is found with type one and three. These are the types used to fight the visible signs of aging. Your body also uses types one and three to strengthen and build arteries and organs. And your body has prioritizing system that will always use these types of supplements to first enhance those systems before it will shunt its use to the skin. This makes the supplements used for skin less likely to provide the effect you were seeking.

Collagen supplements carry few dangerous side effects. The main one is the problem of allergic reactions. These supplements are derived from animal tissues and if you’re allergic to the animal you may have adverse affects from the supplement.

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