Collagen molecular weight and size in Dalton explained
Molecular weight, Da unit of measurement and several other facts relevant to collagen selection - explained.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Learn more about our editorial process
.
Why you can trust us
Articles on Natu.Care are written based on scientific research, data from government websites and other reliable sources. The texts are written in cooperation with doctors, nutritionists and other health and beauty experts. Articles are reviewed before publication and during significant updates.
.Learn more about our editorial process
.Information about advertisements
Content on Natu.Care may contain links to products from the sale of which we may receive a commission. When creating content, we adhere to high editorial standards and take care to be objective about the products discussed. The presence of affiliate links is not dictated by our partners, and we select the products we review ourselves completely independently.
.Learn more about our terms and Conditions
.Some say native, others say hydrolysate, others say molecular weight... And you just wanted to buy some good collagen...
.
I know that feeling when your shopping research has gone a bit too far and now all you know is that you know nothing. Rest assured, everything will soon become clear and no mysterious-sounding "4000 Da" on the packaging will frighten you.
From this article you will learn:
- How collagen is structured.
- How collagen is made up.
- What is the molecular weight of collagen and daltons. .
- Whether the molecular weight of peptides affects the effects of supplementation. .
- Which collagens have the lowest molecular weight. .
See also:
.
- Which collagen is best? .
- Collagen for wrinkles
- Facial collagen
- Collagen for skin
- Collagen for acne
- Collagen for scars
- Collagen for cellulite
- Collagen for stretch marks
- Hair collagen
- Collagen for joints
- Collagen for bones
- Collagen for tendons
- Collagen for nails
- Collagen for tennis elbow
- Collagen for athletes
- Collagen for runners
How is collagen structured?
.
Collagen is a structural protein found in virtually all tissues of the body. Like any protein, it is composed of various amino acids, linked together in long chains. More than half of the amino acids found in collagen are glycine, proline and hydroxyprolineand.
The collagen unit consists of three α-chains, the amino acid composition of which varies depending on the type of collagen. In addition, function and distribution in tissues play a role in collagen diversity as well as molecular organisation..
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
.
The most common and thoroughly studied collagen types are type I (present in all tissues and organs), type II (found in cartilage, vitreous body and nucleus pulposus) and type III (found in skin, blood vessels, lungs, liver and spleen) - adds pharmacist.
The amino acid chains are spirally twisted together. These spirals combine to form bonds, providing collagen protein extraordinary strength and tear resistanceand.
Per gram, type I collagen is stronger than steel..
Molecular Cell Biology, 6th Edition(Lodish et al., 2007)
In areas such as the dermis, collagen plays an active role in protecting the skin by inhibiting the absorption and spread of pathogens, environmental toxins, microorganisms and cancer cells.
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
.
However, the structure of collagen makes its molecules large in their natural form. Master of Pharmacy Ilona Krzak explains that a single collagen molecule is about 300 nm long and 1.5-2 nm in diameter, and that multicollagen molecules form larger collagen aggregates, such as fibrils.
This is irrelevant to the collagen that naturally synthesises in your skin, but if you want to supplement it, it is worth looking at bioavailability.
Fish collagen consists of two alpha 1 chains and one alpha 2 chain (approximately 100 kDa)..
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
Bioavailability is the ease with which the body will be able to assimilate a substance and then use itand.
When you eat (or take a dietary supplement) the collagen proteins are first digested and then enter the intestines, from where they pass into the bloodstream. The intestines act like a sieve - they will not let excessively large (not properly digested) molecules through further. This means that your body will not be able to use them. To prevent this, the top collagen manufacturers use hydrolysates.
Smaller hydrolysate molecules are better absorbed and migrate faster in the bloodstream to where they are needed..
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
Natural collagen (unprocessed) has a molecular weight of approximately 300,000 Da. Hydrolysis is a chemical process using water and enzymes that breaks down collagen molecules into smaller fragments - collagen peptides. Most hydrolysates contain molecules with a mass of 2000-6000 Da. Peptides therefore have an average molecular weight 75 times lower than native collagen.
Hydrolysis is something like dividing a bar of chocolate into individual cubes. After all, it's easier to eat a small cube than a whole bar..
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
Now, wait a minute, molecular weight, some mysterious da... what?
.
What is the molecular weight of collagen?
.
You already know that the collagen molecule is made up of amino acids. Amino acids, in turn, are made of atoms. These atoms have their own mass. The sum of the mass of all the atoms in a molecule is the molecular massand.
"Collagen 1000 daltons" - what is it all about?
.
All measurements have units, e.g. we can measure length in centimetres, miles or kilometres. The unit of measurement for molecular weight is daltons (Da). So if you read about 'collagen 1000 Da', this means that the molecular weight of a single peptide contained in the product is 1000 daltons.
Interesting fact
A dalton is equal to one-twelfth (1/12) the mass of the carbon isotope 12Cand.
Collagen versus daltons - which one to choose
.
Does this mean that you should necessarily look for collagen with the lowest possible molecular weight? No. Most studies on the effects of collagen supplements focus on either collagen hydrolysates in general, or hydrolysates with low-molecular-weight peptides, i.e. those below 5000 Da (but does not specify the exact particle size)and. So it seems that the optimal choice would simply be collagens with a molecular weight lower than 5000 Da.
The triple helix of collagen is resistant to pepsin, thus ensuring that sufficient collagen reaches the gastrointestinal tract..
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
Not only that, by taking native collagen, you will also assimilate it (just as you assimilate collagen contained in food). Only its losses may be greater (you may not digest the entire serving effectively). This is why studies mostly show the advantage of hydrolysed collagen over natural collagenand.
Collagen can be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract mainly through the metabolism of the intestinal microflora at a sufficiently weakly alkaline pH. This is why the good state of our microbiome is so important..
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
.
The low molecular weight of collagen brings another benefit: easier dissolution of the product. This is important with collagen powder. Those with a low molecular weight will generally dissolve better in water or another beverage.
Interesting fact: the oldest collagen identified to date has been found in the soft tissue of a fossilised Tyrannosaurus rex bone, dating back 68 million years..
.
Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy
.
Best low molecular weight collagens
.
Below you will find 6 collagens with low molecular weight (2000 Da to 4000 Da) and excellent quality.
Other selection criteria:
.
- Collagen content - we only consider dietary supplements containing between 2.5 and 15 grams of collagen peptides per daily serving, because according to research, such portions work.
- Pure composition - no artificial fillers, colours or preservatives.
- Additional nutritional value - the best formulations also contain valuable vitamins and macro and micronutrients.
- Proven performance - clinical and laboratory studies are always a big plus.
- Sourcing method - the best manufacturers care about animal welfare and the environmental impact of production. .
- Taste - although this is a subjective criterion, we have taken into account user feedback. Here you can see the full evaluation criteria. .
Natu.Care Collagen Premium 5000 mg, mango & passion fruit
- Collagen content: 5000 mg marine collagen hydrolysate
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (and L-theanine and coenzyme Q10 in cocoa flavoured collagen or vitamin A and vitamin E in mango–passion fruit flavoured collagen)
- Form: powder sachets
- Dose: 1 sachet per day
- Sufficient for: 30 days
Product description
Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg, based on certified ingredients of the best quality. Regular supplementation will positively influence the appearance of the skinóry, hairów and nails – they will be rebuilt and strengthened from the inside.
In addition to collagen, which is valuable for health and beauty, it also offers other active ingredients that help to maintain a youthful complexion, shiny hair and strong nails.
The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active ingredient to positively affect joints, the musculoskeletal system and immunity.
Natu.Care Premium Collagen is available in two flavours – Cacao Bloom and Rise&Shine. Both formulas are based on the following active ingredients: marine collagen hydrolysate, wild roseóbud extract and hyaluronic acid.
Additionally, Cacao Bloom contains natural L-theanine, coenzyme Q10 and defatted Dutch cacao. Rise&Shine instead contains vitamin E and vitamin A.
These are the best collagens in the world.
These best fish collagens on the market also rós taste – Cacao Bloom is a treat for chocolate lovers. Rise&Shine will appeal to those whoólike the refreshing taste of mangoófruit and passion fruit.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Vitamin C supports the body's collagen production, enhancing its effectiveness.
- An effective dose of hyaluronic acid, which additionally supports skin hydration and joint health.
- Fish collagen absorbs 50% better. Additionally, the manufacturer specifies the fish species it is sourced from (Atlantic cod).
- The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
- MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) quality certification, which confirms that the collagen source supports sustainable fishing practices.
Cons:
- None.
Additional information
Natu.Care's fish collagen receives praise for its delicious taste. You won't find the fishy aftertaste that often comes through in other collagens. Plus, you have two tasty flavors to choose from: cocoa and mango-passionfruit.
Active ingredients like coenzyme Q10, hyaluronic acid, and natural L-theanine provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits while slowing down aging processes.
User review
Super, after about 6 weeks of use, the skin on my face became noticeably firmer. Wonderful taste.
Ania ZalewskaNatu.Care customer
Natu.Care Collagen Premium 10000 mg, cherry
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg of hydrolyzed bovine collagen
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin, extract of Indian frankincense resin (boswellia serrata)
- Form: powder sachets for drinking
- Serving: 1 sachet per day
- Lasts for: 30 days
Product description
One of the strongest collagens on the market, providing as much as 10,000 mg per daily serving. This product can effectively support the condition of joints, skin, hair, and nails.
With this supplement, you will support your skeletal and joint system as well as your beauty, helping you visually halt the aging process and feel rejuvenated!
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The daily portion of collagen is very large – as much as 10,000 mg.
- Proven collagen formula – COLLinstant, whose effectiveness has been confirmed in clinical studies.
- Effective dose of hyaluronic acid, which additionally moisturizes the skin and positively affects joint health.
- Vitamin C supports the body's natural collagen production.
- Glucosamine is a fundamental building block of compounds found in joint cartilage and a component of collagen that gives elasticity to connective tissue in tendons.
- Chondroitin is a natural component found in the human body, mainly in cartilage. This large molecule (mucopolysaccharide) has the ability to absorb water, which helps maintain the elasticity and resilience of cartilage.
- Frankincense resin extract supports blood circulation and joint mobility and reduces their stiffness. It may help alleviate inflammatory conditions.
- The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
Cons:
- None.
Additional information
Users praise Natu.Care Collagen Premium for the easy dissolving of the powder.
Natu.Care Collagen 3000 mg, various flavours
- Collagen content: 3000 mg collagen hydrolysate fish
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C
- Form: powder
- Dose: 1.5 scoops per day
- Sufficient for: 30 days
- Available flavours: orange, raspberry-cranberry, blackcurrant and flavourless variant (without added vitamin C)
Product description
Dietary supplement in a highly bioavailable form of hydrolysed collagen SeaGarden fish®. This formula has high bioavailability– youróbody will use collagen faster and more efficiently where you need it most.
A 3,000 mg serving of collagen benefits your hair, skinóhand and nails, as well as the functioning of your jointsómuscles and bones. The action of collagen is complemented by vitamin C, whichóra supports the natural production of the youth protein in the body and also helps with its absorption. It is also a great anti-ageing antioxidant.
Natu.Care's Collagen 3000 mg is available in three fruit flavours (orange, raspberry-cranberry, blackcurrant) and a flavourless variant. The powder dissolves very well, does not form lumps in the liquid and you can add it to your favourite yoghurt, oatmeal or smoothie.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Fish collagen in the SeaGarden® formula is highly bioavailable, so your body absorbs and utilizes it faster and more effectively.
- Regular supplementation positively impacts skin, hair, and nails, and supports the musculoskeletal system.
- The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
- The product is certified for sustainable fishing practices.
- Vitamin C in the formula supports the body’s natural collagen production, enhancing its effects.
- The collagen contains no unnecessary additives like artificial colorings or flavors. All ingredients are naturally sourced.
- Available in three refreshing, fruity flavors or a flavorless option.
Cons:
- None.
Additional information
The collagen powder has excellent solubility.
The collagen is sweetened with steviol glycosides from stevia, which are natural, safe, and suitable for diabetics.
Natu.Care Collagen 3000 mg, tasteless
- Collagen content: 3000 mg collagen hydrolysate fish
- Additional active ingredients: none
- .
- Form: powder
- .
- Dose: one scoop per day
- .
- Sufficient for: 30 days
- .
Product description
The dietary supplement contains only pure fish collagen in the formula SeaGarden®. This Norwegian collagen is characterised by its purity and high bioavailability, which means that youróy body will utilise the collagen faster and more effectively.
Regular supplementation fish collagen benefits hair, skinóhand and nails and supports joints, muscles and bones. It improves the appearance of the skinóry and slows down its ageing, giving it a healthy glow.
Natu.Care Collagen 3000 mg has a neutral taste, dissolves well, does not form lumps in liquid and you can add it to your drink, yoghurt or smoothie.
Pros and cons
The dietary supplement contains only pure fish collagen in the formula SeaGarden®. This Norwegian collagen is characterised by its purity and high bioavailability, which means that youróy body will utilise the collagen faster and more effectively.
Regular supplementation fish collagen benefits hair, skinóhand and nails and supports joints, muscles and bones. It improves the appearance of the skinóry and slows down its ageing, giving it a healthy glow.
Natu.Care Collagen 3000 mg has a neutral taste, dissolves well, does not form lumps in liquid and you can add it to your drink, yoghurt or smoothie.
Additional information
The dietary supplement contains only pure fish collagen in the formula SeaGarden®. This Norwegian collagen is characterised by its purity and high bioavailability, which means that youróy body will utilise the collagen faster and more effectively.
Regular supplementation fish collagen benefits hair, skinóhand and nails and supports joints, muscles and bones. It improves the appearance of the skinóry and slows down its ageing, giving it a healthy glow.
Natu.Care Collagen 3000 mg has a neutral taste, dissolves well, does not form lumps in liquid and you can add it to your drink, yoghurt or smoothie.
Pharmovit Collagen Women
- Collagen content: 5000 mg hydrolyzed collagen VERISOL
- Additional active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C, biotin, zinc, vitamin E, vitamin B6, copper, selenium, vitamin A, extracts of grape seed and field horsetail herb
- .
- Form: sachets of powder
- .
- Dose: 1 sachet per day
- .
- Sufficient for: 20 days
- .
Product description
Collagen hydrolysate in a good dose with numerous additives in the form vitamins, mineralsów and plant extracts. The product can effectively moisturise, firm and make the skin more elastic. In addition, collagen has a positive effect on the condition of hairów, nails and jointsów.
.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit. Thanks to them you can count on additional beauty and immunity support. In addition, some of them, e.g., vitamin C or vitamin A, support the production and absorption of collagen in the body.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit.
Pros and cons
Collagen hydrolysate in a good dose with numerous additives in the form vitamins, mineralsów and plant extracts. The product can effectively moisturise, firm and make the skin more elastic. In addition, collagen has a positive effect on the condition of hairów, nails and jointsów.
.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit. Thanks to them you can count on additional beauty and immunity support. In addition, some of them, e.g., vitamin C or vitamin A, support the production and absorption of collagen in the body.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit.
Additional information
Collagen hydrolysate in a good dose with numerous additives in the form vitamins, mineralsów and plant extracts. The product can effectively moisturise, firm and make the skin more elastic. In addition, collagen has a positive effect on the condition of hairów, nails and jointsów.
.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit. Thanks to them you can count on additional beauty and immunity support. In addition, some of them, e.g., vitamin C or vitamin A, support the production and absorption of collagen in the body.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit.
User review
Collagen hydrolysate in a good dose with numerous additives in the form vitamins, mineralsów and plant extracts. The product can effectively moisturise, firm and make the skin more elastic. In addition, collagen has a positive effect on the condition of hairów, nails and jointsów.
.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit. Thanks to them you can count on additional beauty and immunity support. In addition, some of them, e.g., vitamin C or vitamin A, support the production and absorption of collagen in the body.
The vitamins and minerals contained in the formula are no small benefit.
Aura Herbals Colladrop Forte
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg sea collagen
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C and coenzyme Q10
- Form: sachets of powder .
- Dosage: one sachet per day .
- Sufficient for: 30 days .
Product description
A dietary supplement containing fish collagen for drinking in a high dose of 10,000 mg hydrolysate. It also offers you additional health and beauty benefits thanks to its coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C content. Supplementation with collagen can improve the appearance of your skinóskin, hairónails and improve the function of your jointsómuscles and bones.
Pros and cons
A dietary supplement containing fish collagen for drinking in a high dose of 10,000 mg hydrolysate. It also offers you additional health and beauty benefits thanks to its coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C content. Supplementation with collagen can improve the appearance of your skinóskin, hairónails and improve the function of your jointsómuscles and bones.
Additional information
A dietary supplement containing fish collagen for drinking in a high dose of 10,000 mg hydrolysate. It also offers you additional health and beauty benefits thanks to its coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C content. Supplementation with collagen can improve the appearance of your skinóskin, hairónails and improve the function of your jointsómuscles and bones.
A dietary supplement containing fish collagen for drinking in a high dose of 10,000 mg hydrolysate. It also offers you additional health and beauty benefits thanks to its coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C content. Supplementation with collagen can improve the appearance of your skinóskin, hairónails and improve the function of your jointsómuscles and bones.
COLLIBRE Beauty Drink
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg hydrolyzed collagen beef collagen
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, silicon
- Form: shots .
- Dose: 1 shot per day (140 ml) .
- Sufficient for: 30 days .
Product description
The dietary supplement from COLLIBRE contains Swiss collagen hydrolysate in a high daily dose of 10,000 mg. In addition, the formula provides vitamins and silicon thatósupport the health of hairóskinóand nails.
Pros and cons
The dietary supplement from COLLIBRE contains Swiss collagen hydrolysate in a high daily dose of 10,000 mg. In addition, the formula provides vitamins and silicon thatósupport the health of hairóskinóand nails.
Additional information
The dietary supplement from COLLIBRE contains Swiss collagen hydrolysate in a high daily dose of 10,000 mg. In addition, the formula provides vitamins and silicon thatósupport the health of hairóskinóand nails.
User review
The dietary supplement from COLLIBRE contains Swiss collagen hydrolysate in a high daily dose of 10,000 mg. In addition, the formula provides vitamins and silicon thatósupport the health of hairóskinóand nails.
YANGO Collagen Type I and III powder
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg hydrolysate of fish collagen types I and III .
- Additional active ingredients: none .
- Form: powder to be dissolved in water .
- Dose: two scoops (10 g) of powder daily .
- Sufficient for: 30 days .
Product description
Collagen in powder form with a neutral taste and smell. It does not contain any additional active ingredients, which may appeal to allergy sufferers and those whoóre already taking other dietary supplements and do not want to exceed the maximum recommended daily dosage.
The supplement contains fish collagen hydrolysate, whichóry considered to be the best and most easily absorbed by the human body. A high daily serving (as much as 10,000 mg) will effectively improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
The supplement is designed to help improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
Taking the formula can also improve the condition of your hair and nails, and have a positive effect on your joints, muscles and bones.
Pros and cons
Collagen in powder form with a neutral taste and smell. It does not contain any additional active ingredients, which may appeal to allergy sufferers and those whoóre already taking other dietary supplements and do not want to exceed the maximum recommended daily dosage.
The supplement contains fish collagen hydrolysate, whichóry considered to be the best and most easily absorbed by the human body. A high daily serving (as much as 10,000 mg) will effectively improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
The supplement is designed to help improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
Taking the formula can also improve the condition of your hair and nails, and have a positive effect on your joints, muscles and bones.
Additional information
Collagen in powder form with a neutral taste and smell. It does not contain any additional active ingredients, which may appeal to allergy sufferers and those whoóre already taking other dietary supplements and do not want to exceed the maximum recommended daily dosage.
The supplement contains fish collagen hydrolysate, whichóry considered to be the best and most easily absorbed by the human body. A high daily serving (as much as 10,000 mg) will effectively improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
The supplement is designed to help improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
Taking the formula can also improve the condition of your hair and nails, and have a positive effect on your joints, muscles and bones.
User review
Collagen in powder form with a neutral taste and smell. It does not contain any additional active ingredients, which may appeal to allergy sufferers and those whoóre already taking other dietary supplements and do not want to exceed the maximum recommended daily dosage.
The supplement contains fish collagen hydrolysate, whichóry considered to be the best and most easily absorbed by the human body. A high daily serving (as much as 10,000 mg) will effectively improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
The supplement is designed to help improve the condition of your skin reducing the visible symptoms of ageing.
Taking the formula can also improve the condition of your hair and nails, and have a positive effect on your joints, muscles and bones.
SOLVE LABS Collagen Peptides
- Collagen content: 6000 mg hydrolyzed beef collagen type I and III COLLinstant® .
- Additional active ingredients: hyaluronic acid
- Form: powder .
- Dose: one scoop (6 g) daily .
- Sufficient for: 30 days .
Product description
High-quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). Thanks to the COLLinstant® collagen peptide extraction technology, the preparation is well absorbed.
.The combination of collagen and hyaluronic acid has a beneficial effect on the appearance of your skinóry. Your complexion will become firmer, moisturised and wrinkles will become shallower. The effects can also be felt on your hair: it becomes soft and shiny. The nail plate will regain its healthy appearance.
.A daily serving will support the health of your jointsós, bones and muscles.
Pros and cons
High-quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). Thanks to the COLLinstant® collagen peptide extraction technology, the preparation is well absorbed.
.The combination of collagen and hyaluronic acid has a beneficial effect on the appearance of your skinóry. Your complexion will become firmer, moisturised and wrinkles will become shallower. The effects can also be felt on your hair: it becomes soft and shiny. The nail plate will regain its healthy appearance.
.A daily serving will support the health of your jointsós, bones and muscles.
Additional information
High-quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). Thanks to the COLLinstant® collagen peptide extraction technology, the preparation is well absorbed.
.The combination of collagen and hyaluronic acid has a beneficial effect on the appearance of your skinóry. Your complexion will become firmer, moisturised and wrinkles will become shallower. The effects can also be felt on your hair: it becomes soft and shiny. The nail plate will regain its healthy appearance.
.A daily serving will support the health of your jointsós, bones and muscles.
User review
High-quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). Thanks to the COLLinstant® collagen peptide extraction technology, the preparation is well absorbed.
.The combination of collagen and hyaluronic acid has a beneficial effect on the appearance of your skinóry. Your complexion will become firmer, moisturised and wrinkles will become shallower. The effects can also be felt on your hair: it becomes soft and shiny. The nail plate will regain its healthy appearance.
.A daily serving will support the health of your jointsós, bones and muscles.
See also:
.
- Drinking collagen .
- Liquid collagen
- Collagen powder
- Collagen tablets
- Collagen in capsules
- Collagen in sachets
Summary
.
- Collagen is made up of amino acid chains twisted together. Thanks to hydrolysis, these can be broken down into smaller collagen peptides.
- Collagen is a very small molecule.
- The size of a collagen molecule is given by determining its molecular weight. The unit of measurement of this mass is the dalton (Da).
- Collagen hydrolysates, and in particular hydrolysates with a low molecular weight (less than 5000 Da), are considered to be better absorbed by the body. This may translate into better supplementation effects.
FAQ
.What is the molecular weight of collagen?
.Collagen is a large protein -its molecular weight is about 300 kDa (kilodaltons). This is why the collagen you take in with food may not be fully absorbed into your body. The protein of youth must first be digested into particles of an appropriate size that can penetrate the intestinal walls. If the digestion process does not proceed efficiently, some of the collagen may not be absorbed.
To prevent this from happening, collagen supplements collagen supplements often use collagen hydrolysates, in which the protein is broken down into collagen peptides with a much lower molecular weight (typically between 1000 and 8000 Da).
How many daltons should collagen have?
.Many studies highlight the better bioavailability (i.e. easier absorption into the body) collagen with a low molecular weight. Considered as such collagen hydrolysates, these have a molecular weight of less than 5000 Da.
A good example of a high quality hydrolysate fish collagen with a low molecular weight (3000 Da) is Natu.Care's premium collagen.
.Which collagen is the healthiest?
.Any collagen is healthy, especially if you have youth protein deficiencies. Type I collagen will work for most ailments (possibly with the addition of type III). If you want to look after your joints, you may also be interested in type II collagen.
Buy collagen hydrolysate, preferably derived from fish. Such a product will be absorbed into the body most efficiently and will therefore give the best results from supplementation. Choose a product from a proven manufacturer that pays attention to the quality of the ingredients, for example Natu.Care Premium Collagen.
.How to accelerate collagen production
.To boost your body's collagen production bet on... a healthy lifestyle. Follow a nutritious and varied diet, rich in vitamins and minerals. Particularly important here vitamin C, which supports the natural synthesis of collagen in the body. Remember to be physically active - it too stimulates the production of this protein. And above all, protect your skin from sunlight, which destroys collagen fibres. Use screen creams all year round.
What to look out for when buying collagen?
.When choosing collagen pay attention to its daily serving. According to research, servings of 2.5 to 15 grams of collagen are effective. The form is also important - hydrolysed collagen is absorbed more efficiently. Next, check the source: research shows that fish-derived collagen is most similar in structure to that in the human body, so absorbs up to 50% better than beef-based or pork-based.
Finally, check the quality of the ingredients. It is good if the purity of the raw material has been confirmed by laboratory tests. Additional certifications and clinical tests are also a big plus. All these criteria are met, for example Natu.Care Premium Collagen.
.How much collagen do you need to drink to see results?
You will need to wait a few months for the full effects of a collagen treatment, but you will notice a more supple and smoother complexion after about 30 days of regular supplementation. After about 3 months you will see a difference in the condition of hair, as well as joints and muscles. By taking collagen 6 months, you will also see a shallowing of wrinkles and an improvement in skin density.
What to combine collagen with?
.Collagen is worth combining with ingredients that support its production - vitamin C or those that complement its action (e.g. hyaluronic acid, which supports both skin appearance and joint health). Other additional active ingredients will depend on the purpose for which you are supplementing collagen. Young-looking skin will be supported vitamins A and E, biotin or coenzyme Q10. For joints, look for a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin in the formulation, for example.
.
Sources
.See all
.Benadiba, M., Serruya, R., & Maor, Y. (2018). Bioaccessibility of Shore Magic® collagen, a low-molecular-weight collagen supplement, in different in vitro barrier models. Heliyon, 4(9). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2018.e00821
Campos, L. D., Santos Junior, V. de A., Pimentel, J. D., Carregã, G. L. F., & Cazarin, C. B. B. (2023). Collagen supplementation in skin and orthopedic diseases: A review of the literature. Heliyon, 9(4), e14961. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14961
Dalton-Definition, synonyms, examples of usage. (n.d.). Retrieved 27 September 2023, from https://sjp.pwn.pl/slowniki/Dalton.html
Kim, D. U., Chung, H. C., Choi, J., Sakai, Y., & Lee, B. Y. (2018). Oral Intake of Low-Molecular-Weight Collagen Peptide Improves Hydration, Elasticity, and Wrinkling in Human Skin: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients, 10(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10070826
Kim, J., Lee, S. G., Lee, J., Choi, S., Suk, J., Lee, J. H., Yang, J. H., Yang, J. S., & Kim, J. (2022). Oral Supplementation of Low-Molecular-Weight Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Improves Biophysical Properties of Skin: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Study. Journal of Medicinal Food, 25(12), 1146-1154. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2022.K.0097
León-López, A., Morales-Peñaloza, A., Martínez-Juárez, V. M., Vargas-Torres, A., Zeugolis, D. I., & Aguirre-Álvarez, G. (2019). Hydrolyzed Collagen-Sources and Applications. Molecules, 24(22), 4031. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24224031
.Li, C., Fu, Y., Dai, H., Wang, Q., Gao, R., & Zhang, Y. (2022). Recent progress in preventive effect of collagen peptides on photoaging skin and action mechanism. Food Science and Human Wellness, 11(2), 218-229. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fshw.2021.11.003
Pal, G. K., & Suresh, P. V. (2016). Sustainable valorisation of seafood by-products: recovery of collagen and development of collagen-based novel functional food ingredients. Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, 37, 201-215. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ifset.2016.03.015
Sibilla, S., Godfrey, M., Brewer, S., Budh-Raja, A., & Genovese, L. (2015). An Overview of the Beneficial Effects of Hydrolysed Collagen as a Nutraceutical on Skin Properties: Scientific Background and Clinical Studies. The Open Nutraceuticals Journal, 8, 29-42. https://doi.org/10.2174/1876396001508010029
Jelonek, L. (2023). Collagen. Everything you need to know (B. Turczynski, Ed.; 1st ed.). Natu.Care. https://books.google.com/books?vid=9788396887801
.
Editorials
Meet the teamIlona Krzak obtained her Master of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of Wrocław. She did her internship in a hospital pharmacy and in the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently working in the profession and also runs an educational profile on Instagram: @pani_z_apteki
Mar 24
Everything you want to know about COLLinstant collagen.
Dec 18
Collibre collagen is an interesting supplement in shot form.
Dec 18
Solgar collagen with hyaluronic acid is a dietary supplement that supports skin and joint health.