Is collagen all the same? Get to know the different types and functions –

Whether on social networks or in dermatology offices, you have certainly heard of about the collagen. This almost mysterious substance plays a very important role in the firmness of our skin – and is partly responsible for sagging, as it stops being produced by the body over time.

There are many controversies about the consumption of collagen – starting with the discussions about whether or not it is actually effective -, however, we talked to the Dr. Andrea Dario Friascoordinator of the Sanavita Research Center and PhD in nutrition, to better understand this substance, its types and, above all, its effectiveness.

WHAT IS COLLAGEN?

“Collagen is a protein naturally produced by our body and its main function is to support tissues such as skin, bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons”, she explains. “This protein is so abundant that it represents approximately 25 – 30% of all protein in the human body.”

And, no, there is not just one type of collagen in the human body. In fact, according to the expert, there are 29 different types of this substance. The most found in the body, however, are the types I, II and III – and I is the most common.

“In the skin, for example, types I and III are present in greater quantities, while type II collagen is especially found in cartilage. Bones, ligaments and tendons have a higher amount of type I collagen”, he explains.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO REPLACE – OR MAINTAIN – COLLAGEN?

Despite the controversies surrounding the subject, it is indeed possible to replace collagen. According to the doctor. Andrea, studies show that the supplementation of hydrolyzed collagen, also known as collagen peptides, stimulate the production of the different types of collagen in the body, whether in the skin, bones, cartilage, ligaments or tendons. Therefore, collagen replacement via supplementation has been highly recommended by experts for maintaining health, beauty and mobility.

As stated earlier, collagen production is naturally reduced in the body as part of the natural aging process. In that case, supplementation is highly indicated, but some factors can accelerate collagen loss, even younger people – so maintaining good living habits is important. Dr. Andrea indicates the following:

Maintain a balanced diet in proteins and rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C.
Moderate consumption of simple carbohydrates (such as sugars and white wheat flour, which, in excess, degrades collagen.
Avoid cigarettes.
Avoid sun exposure without sun protection.
Have a good nights sleep.
Practice physical activity on a regular basis.

“A good strategy is also to create a ‘collagen bank’”, he explains. “The term refers to a reserve, a stock of this protein that is made preventively and early (from the age of 25), to prevent the body’s collagen from being rapidly lost with advancing age. The construction of this bank can associate several treatments with technologies and products that intensify collagen production, including oral supplementation, which must be done continuously.”

LIFE HABITS X COLLAGEN PRODUCTION

Collagen production is naturally reduced with aging. It is estimated that, at age 30, this loss can reach 1% per year. In women, the apex of this loss happens with menopause, when the body starts to produce only 35% of the collagen necessary for tissue maintenance.

“However, lifestyle is a determining factor that can contribute to accelerating the process, favoring the appearance of signs of aging in the skin (wrinkles, sagging, expression lines) and joint and bone fragility, compromising skin health, mobility and quality of life”, explains Dr. Andrea.

For example, people who are exposed to sunlight without using adequate protection, smoke, sleep poorly, are stressed and do not eat well, favor inflammatory and oxidative processes, which severely damage existing collagen fibers and impair the formation of new ones.

Already overweight people or practitioners of high impact physical activityare also more susceptible, since the overload applied to joint tissue is also a factor that impairs and interferes with collagen production.

TYPES AND SUPPLEMENTS OF COLLAGEN: HOW TO CHOOSE?

Another important point in this matter is choosing which collagen supplement is most suitable for your case. This choice will depend on the goals and needs of each patient – therefore, having the guidance of a dermatologist or nutritionist is essential.

Hydrolyzed collagen, also called collagen peptides, is a supplement that can help replace this protein in various body tissues, including skin, bones, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, helping to produce collagen types I and III.

“When ingested and absorbed, it will act where your body needs it most, being indicated especially for those who think about prevention and complete care”, he says. “For this, daily consumption between 8-10g is recommended. A well-known brand in the market for this type of supplement is Peptan®.”

Collagen known as Verisol® is a special type of hydrolyzed collagen, with specific action for the skin, not acting on other body tissues. Studies with this type of collagen show benefits on skin firmness and elasticity with just 2.5g a day and Anvisa itself allows a claim for it for skin health.

“It is referred to as a bioactive collagen peptide and favors the production of type I and III collagen in the skin”, adds Dr. Andrea.

Type II collagen is completely different from those mentioned above. It is a specific collagen, which is not obtained by hydrolysis, so it is common to see the terms “non-hydrolyzed” or “non-denatured” on the packaging of this type of product.

“It only acts on our cartilage, and is ideal for anyone who suffers from pain, joint stiffness and/or joint wear. Its benefits are felt with just 40 mg daily”, he indicates. “Regardless of the supplement, collagen must be used continuously, so that production is always stimulated. Discontinuing use may stop benefits.”