What is collagen protein? Definition, function, and more

Collagen protein is the main structural component of connective tissue.

AuthorLudwik Jelonek

Author

Ludwik Jelonek

Natu.Care Editor

Ludwik Jelonek is the author of more than 2,500 texts published on leading portals. His content has found its way into services such as Ostrovit and Kobieta Onet. At Natu.Care, Ludwik educates people in the most important area of life - health.

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Reviewed byJulia Skrajda

Verified by an expert

Reviewed by

Julia Skrajda

Clinical nutritionist

A clinical nutritionist, she works in the profession and creates personalised menus and recommendations for disease entities.

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Edited byBart Turczynski

Edited by

Bart Turczynski

Editor-in-Chief

Bart Turczynski is the editor-in-chief of Natu.Care. He is responsible for the quality of the content created on Natu.Care, among others, and ensures that all articles are based on sound scientific research and consulted with industry specialists.

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Fact-checkingNina Wawryszuk

Fact-checking

Nina Wawryszuk

Natu.Care Editor

Nina Wawryszuk specialises in sports supplementation, strength training and psychosomatics. On a daily basis, in addition to writing articles for Natu.Care, as a personal trainer she helps athletes improve their performance through training, diet and supplementation.

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What is collagen protein? Definition, function, and more

Updated:23 September, 2024

11 min

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Collagen protein is like a screw in a machine. If just one is gone, nothing bad happens. But, when more are missing, the machine stops working.

The same is true for your body. When there aren't enough collagen proteins, you start to have problems with your joints, skin, hair or nails.

The same goes for your body.

This is why it is important to take care of the correct concentration of collagen proteins in the body. Together with Ilona Krzak, MSc, pharmacist, we will present the most important information about them.

From this article you will learn:

What collagen proteins are and where they are found.
How collagen proteins work and what are the symptoms of collagen deficiency.
What are the best supplements with collagen proteins.
Whether everyone can take collagen proteins.

See also:

What is collagen protein?

Collagen protein (commonly known as collagen) is a structural protein that makes up 25-35% of all protein in your body. It plays a key role in the connective tissue system, affecting its strength and integrity. Among other things, it influences skin condition, wound healing and cell functionand.

Where does collagen protein occur?

Collagen protein is found in many structures in the body. The most important of these areand:

skin - collagen protein is the basic structure of the skin, giving it elasticity, firmness and resistance to mechanical damage.
Bones - collagen protein works together with minerals such as calcium. This maintains the strength and susceptibility of bones to fracture.
Blood vessel walls - the presence of collagen protein in blood vessel walls helps them to remain flexible and strong.
Cartilage - collagen protein is the main structural component of cartilage.
Fascia and tendons - this is the primary component of ligaments and tendons, responsible for connecting bones and stabilising joints.

Collagen protein production decreases as the body ages. This leads to the first symptoms of collagen deficiency, such as loss of skin elasticity or skeletal problemsand.

The main organic component of bone and dentin is type I collagen.

Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy

Collagen - simple or complex protein?

Collagen is a complex protein that consists of three polypeptide chains twisted together by a triple helix. Each chain contains approximately 1,000 amino acids. These amino acids are distinguished by an unusual peptide sequence, which is repeated every third amino acidand.

How does collagen protein work?

Collagen protein is involved in the formation of collagen fibres, which are essential for the body to function. The most important tasks of collagen protein areand:

Structure formation. Collagen protein makes up the collagen fibres, which provide the basic scaffolding for many tissues, including skin, bone, cartilage, tendons and ligaments.
Collagen proteins are used for the formation of collagen fibres, which are the basic scaffolding for many tissues, including skin, bone, cartilage, tendons and ligaments.
Giving flexibility. Collagen fibres form an elastic mesh that allows tissues to stretch and return to their original structure when relieved.

Tissue strengthening. Collagen protein forms reinforcing layers for various tissues, protecting them from mechanical damage.
Wound healing. Collagen speeds up the wound healing process by creating a scaffold on which cells can grow to rebuild damaged tissues.
Cellular interactions. Collagen protein enhances intercellular communication, enabling a variety of biological processes such as tissue growth, cell migration and tissue repair.
Tissue hydration. Collagen protein controls the level of hydration in tissues, especially in the skin, maintaining its healthy appearance.

What are the symptoms of collagen protein deficiency?

Deficiency of collagen proteins (collagen) leads to various health problems. You start to lack them as early as 25-30 years of age, so a healthy diet and sensible supplementation is important.

Symptoms of collagen protein deficiencyand

Deficiencies in connective tissues. Collagen supports the elasticity and strength of connective tissue. If it is lacking in the body, tissues can weaken and lose their elastic properties.
Weakened joints and muscles. Collagen supports joints, ligaments and muscles. Its deficiency can lead to joint discomfort and greater susceptibility to injury.
Problems with skin, hair and nails. Collagen proteins affect the appearance and structure of skin, hair and nails. A lack of these can result in dry and flabby skin, brittle hair and weakened nails.
Collagen proteins can also affect the appearance and structure of skin, hair and nails.
Osteoporosis. Collagen is an important part of bone structure. A collagen deficiency can increase the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that leads to reduced bone density and increases the risk of fractures.

Wound healing disorders. Collagen proteins play an important role in the wound healing process. Their absence can lead to delayed healing and increased susceptibility to infection.

In order to ensure adequate collagen in the body, a healthy, balanced diet rich in protein, vitamin C and other nutrients to support collagen protein production should be taken care of. In some cases, collagen supplementation may also be indicated.

Best collagen protein supplements - ranking

Best overall

Natu.Care Collagen Premium 5000 mg, mango-maracuja

5.0

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
.

See price

Product description

Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.

Take care of your tendons, joint cartilage, ligaments, muscles and even bones by supplying them with the building blocks to function properly. Move without bólu and provide the necessary support for any physical activity.

And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.

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 whoóenjoy the refreshing taste of mangoófruit and passion fruit.

Pros and cons

Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.

And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.

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.

Additional information

Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.

And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.

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.

User review

Fish collagen from the Natu.Care brand in a dose of 5000 mg. The formula contains a sufficient portion of the active substance to positively affect your joints, musculoskeletal system and immunity.

And as a „gratis” to regular supplementation, you will also receive firm skinóhand, healthy and shiny hair and strong nails.

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.

Best for joints

Natu.Care Collagen Premium 10000 mg, cherry

5.0

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

See price

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.

ALLDEYNN Collarose Fish

4.7

Collagen content: 5000 mg hydrolysate fish collagen VERISOL F®
Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, biotin
Form: powder to dissolve in water
Dose: one scoop (6 g) of powder daily
Sufficient for: 50 days

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Product description

Atlantic cod collagen VERISOL F® contained in the formula are easily absorbed collagen peptides of fish origin. Regular supplementation can firm your skinóhand and slow down the ageing process. Your nails will become stronger and stop breaking. The addition of biotin will improve the condition of your hairów. The collagen portion is high enough to also have a good effect on your joints, muscles and bones.

Pros and cons

Additional information

Expert and user opinion

DuoLife Collagen fish collagen 2500 mg

4.0

Collagen content: 2500 mg collagen
Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, silicon, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, nettle and bamboo extracts
Form: liquid to drink
Dose:25 ml

.
Sufficient for: 30 days
.

See price

Product description

100% natural collagen liquid without unnecessary ingredientsós. The composition of ingredientsós improves the appearance and condition of skinóry, hairów, nails. DuoLife is a good choiceór if you notice the first signs of skinóry ageing or want to stop this process. A tasty liquid, convenient to use.

Pros and cons

Additional information

User review

Convenient form

Pharmovit liquid collagen 10000 mg

4.6

Collagen content: 10000 mg hydrolysed bovine collagen types I and III
Additional active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, natural plant extracts, vitamin C, B vitamins, zinc, vitamin D
Form: vials
Dose: 25 ml
Sufficient for: 20 days

See price

Product description

A solid daily dose of collagen for jointómuscle and bone health and beauty. The duo of collagen and vitamin C has a positive effect on each other, so that „the protein of youth” is better absorbed and more efficiently produced in the body.

Pros and cons

Additional information

High dose

KFD Premium Collagen+

4.9

Collagen content: 12,440 mg of gelatin collagen hydrolysate
Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, vitamin D, MSM, hyaluronic acid, calcium, frankincense resin extract
Form: powder to be dissolved in water
Dose: 4 scoops (20 g) of powder daily
Sufficient for: 20 days

See price

Product description

High dose of collagen and a real bomb of vitamins C and D and organic sulphur. With this preparation the effects will come immediately. You will improve the firmness of your skin and reduce wrinkles. Your hair and nails will be strong and shiny.

A generous dose of collagen will improve the mobility of your jointsós, benefit your bone system and muscles. Do you do sports and need a product thatós able to keep up with your needs? This product will do the trick.

Pros and cons

Additional information

Expert opinion

Collagen Reme

4.0

Collagen content: 2500 mg pork collagen
Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, niacin (vitamin B3), riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin A, biotin, vitamin D, zinc, manganese, copper, iodine, selenium
Form: powder
Dose: one scoop per day
Sufficient for: 30 days

See price

Product description

The dietary supplement from Remé contains beef collagen in a patented formula and vitamin C, whichóra aids its absorption. The formula comes in three flavours: neutral, orange-maracuja and strawberry-pomegranate. The formula can effectively support and improve the condition of the skinóry, hairóry and nails.

Pros and cons

Additional information

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See also:

What is the difference between bovine collagen protein and fish protein?

There are two common types of collagen protein on the market - fish origin (English: marine collagen) and beef collagen. Occasionally you may also come across porcine collagen protein. However, its properties are strongly similar to beefand.

Research suggests that fish-derived collagen protein is absorbed (assimilated) up to 50% better than beef protein. Therefore, it will usually be the better choice. The exception to this is if you are allergic to marine products, in which case beef or pork collagen proteinand is the better choice. (But also vice versa).

Note

Beef and pork collagen protein is not harmful. Nevertheless, there is a risk of contracting an animal-borne disease. Therefore, pay attention to the quality of the collagen supplements you choose.

Is hydrolysed collagen protein the best solution?

Yes, hydrolysed collagen protein is the best type of supplement you can choose. It absorbs much better than natural collagen and can realistically support your body. Studies suggest that regular intake of 2.5-15 grams of hydrolysed collagen protein supports the health of hair, skin, nails and jointsand.

What are the contraindications to the use of collagen protein?

Most often, collagen protein does not cause adverse reactions. However, some people should be particularly cautious before starting supplementation.

Collagen contraindicationsand:

allergies to the ingredients in the preparation,
kidney and liver diseases,
adherence to selected medications,
pregnancy and breastfeeding period,
gastrointestinal problems,
autoimmune disorders,

Is collagen protein harmful?

No, collagen protein is not harmful. What's more, it is crucial to the body's health. However, sometimes side effects can occur during collagen protein supplementation. In most cases, they are mild and include allergic reactions or stomach problemsand.

See also:

Summary

Collagen protein influences skin condition, the wound healing process and cell function.
Collagen protein is found in the skin, bones, blood vessel walls, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, among others.
Collagen is a protein that affects the healing of wounds and cell function.
Collagen is a complex protein.
Collagen protein deficiency manifests itself in the form of joint weakness, skin problems and connective tissue disorders, among other things.
Collagen is a complex protein.
The best collagen protein supplements contain hydrolysed fish collagen.
Contraindications to collagen protein supplementation include, but are not limited to, allergies, kidney or liver disease and taking selected medications.

FAQ

What destroys collagen in the body?

Collagen proteins in the body are primarily destroyed by age. You can't stop time, but you can try to avoid other factors that lead to collagen deficiency.

What destroys collagen in the body?

improper diet (deficiency of vitamins and minerals),
UV radiation (use screen creams!),
abuse of coffee,
smoking cigarettes,
inadequate hydration,
abuse of alcohol,

How to rebuild the collagen proteins in the body?

Consume collagen-rich foods, such as chicken feet, bone broth and chicken with skin. Also remember to eat a diet rich in nutrients that support collagen production. This will allow you to take vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C or zinc.

Do crow's feet provide collagen protein?

Yes, crow's feet are a good source of collagen protein. Eating them regularly can positively influence the concentration of collagen in the body, and consequently support the condition of hair, skin and nails.

Are collagen proteins water soluble?

Yes, collagen proteins are water soluble. This is why one of the more popular methods of supplementation is to mix collagen powder in water or other liquid, allowing it to be consumed as a drink.

Do collagen proteins harm the liver?

No, collagen protein is not harmful to the liver. In fact, collagen protein can benefit this organ through its restorative abilities and antioxidant action.

Scientific studies have shown that collagen proteins can help repair and regenerate liver cells that have suffered from medical conditions, excessive alcohol consumption, environmental pollutants and other negative factors.

What is natural collagen protein?

Natural collagen protein is a protein produced by the human body. Over time, this process becomes less and less effective, which can lead to the first symptoms of deficiency. In this case, collagen supplementation may be necessary.

Does collagen protein retain water in the body?

Collagen protein may promote the maintenance of adequate skin hydration by retaining water. However, it should be noted that collagen supplementation is not a substitute for taking care to keep the body properly hydrated.

It is recommended that every adult male should consume approximately 3.7 litres of fluids per day, while a woman should consume 2.7 litres.

Resources

See all

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Abrahams, M., O'Grady, R., & Prawitt, J. (2022). Effect of a Daily Collagen Peptide Supplement on Digestive Symptoms in Healthy Women: 2-Phase Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Formative Research, 6(5), e36339. https://doi.org/10.2196/36339

Al-Atif, H. (2022). Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm Shift in the Field of Dermatology and Cosmetics. Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, e2022018-e2022018. https://doi.org/10.5826/dpc.1201a18

Bolke, L., Schlippe, G., Gerß, J., & Voss, W. (2019). A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients, 11(10), Article 10. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11102494

Boyera, N., Galey, I., & Bernard, B. a. (1998). Effect of vitamin C and its derivatives on collagen synthesis and cross-linking by normal human fibroblasts. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 20(3), 151-158. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1467-2494.1998.171747.x

Campana, V., Milano, G., Pagano, E., Barba, M., Cicione, C., Salonna, G., Lattanzi, W., & Logroscino, G. (2014). Bone substitutes in orthopaedic surgery: From basic science to clinical practice. Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Medicine, 25(10), 2445-2461. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10856-014-5240-2

Elam, M. L., Johnson, S. A., Hooshmand, S., Feresin, R. G., Payton, M. E., Gu, J., & Arjmandi, B. H. (2015). A Calcium-Collagen Chelate Dietary Supplement Attenuates Bone Loss in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Medicinal Food, 18(3), 324-331. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2014.0100

Garnero, P. (2015). The Role of Collagen Organization on the Properties of Bone. Calcified Tissue International, 97(3), 229-240. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00223-015-9996-2

Harris, E. D., DiBona, D. R., & Krane, S. M. (1969). Collagenases in human synovial fluid. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 48(11), 2104-2113. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI106177

Jendricke, P., Centner, C., Zdzieblik, D., Gollhofer, A., & König, D. (2019). Specific Collagen Peptides in Combination with Resistance Training Improve Body Composition and Regional Muscle Strength in Premenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients, 11(4), Article 4. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11040892

Kjaer, M., Jørgensen, N. R., Heinemeier, K., & Magnusson, S. P. (2015). Chapter Eleven-Exercise and Regulation of Bone and Collagen Tissue Biology. IN C. Bouchard (Ed.), Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science (Vol. 135, pp. 259-291). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.pmbts.2015.07.008

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