Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is the main component of connective tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, muscles, and skin.
This protein is responsible for forming the fibers from which the structures in our body are created and is responsible for their firmness and elasticity, playing an essential role in their hydration.
The collagen fibers have the ability to mix with many types of substances and minerals and thus fulfill various functions: when collagen binds to calcium crystals, hard and rigid structures are formed; if mixed with elastin, it forms a network that can improve the appearance of the skin; and if other substances are added to this combination, it can form a gel that acts to protect cartilage.
However, with the passing of years, our body begins to decrease its production of collagen, which results in a loss of skin elasticity and flexibility, muscle and joint ailments, circulatory system deficiencies, hair loss, and dental issues, just to mention a few.
For this reason, collagen consumption is a great alternative to meet the needs for this important protein. In this article, we will tell you about its pharmaceutical forms and what you should take into account to choose a good collagen.
There are approximately 21 types of collagen, so we can say that collagen as such is a family of related molecules that are also different from each other. The most well-known are type I (present in bones, teeth, skin) and type II (present in cartilage).
Liquid, powder, or pill collagen?
On the market, we can find it in these 3 forms, and it is important to clarify that although each of them will fulfill its general function of providing an extra amount of collagen to our body, the amount of collagen it can provide, its practicality, and its versatility will depend on its presentation.
- Capsules or tablets are practical; they only require a glass of some beverage to ingest them and are easy to transport. However, you should keep in mind that in this presentation, the concentration of collagen tends to be lower.
- Liquid collagen is ready for consumption, without the need to dissolve it or ingest it with other liquids, making it very practical. The concentration of collagen in this presentation can be higher than in tablets or capsules, being very similar to powdered collagen. It is rapidly absorbed.
- Powdered collagen can be one of the forms with the highest concentration. While it must be dissolved in some liquid, this characteristic provides versatility, as you could vary the beverage you consume it with daily, and like liquid collagen, its absorption can be faster.
Tips for making an excellent choice of your collagen:
Before buying your collagen, check the list of ingredients; you will find the components of your product there from highest to lowest. Once you read them, avoid:
- Bulking or filler agents such as oats, almond flour, soy, maltodextrins, among others, which, while not bad ingredients, in this case could minimize the collagen intake per serving.
- The inclusion of other proteins different from collagen, as these will displace our nutrient of interest in the formulation.
- Sugar content.
- Artificial flavors or colors.
And finally, remember to verify the collagen concentration of the product; the more concentrated the product, the more benefits you will get.
By: Sara Rojas González
Nutritionist Dietitian, U de A. – Funat Laboratories Line Specialist.