Collagen’s health benefits are catching on, and as they do, more and more people are diving deeper into the science behind collagen nutrition. You may have heard by now that there are a number of different types of collagen. Put simply, these different types are essentially representative of the area of the body from which the collagen was sourced.
In an effort to better understand what is collagen, we will delve into these types of collagen and their similarities and differences below. Scroll on to learn more.
What Are The Different Types of Collagen?
While there are many different types of collagen, types I, II and III are the most common ones you’ll find in supplements. You can get these different types of collagen from healthy proteins in your diet by consuming bone-infused foods, such as eating cartilage directly off the bone, consuming bone-in fish, eating organ meats or drinking Bone Broth Collagen. An even easier way to top up your collagen levels is by taking a whole-food collagen supplement.
Below, we breakdown the different types of collagen in more detail:
Type I Collagen
Type I collagen is the most prevalent type of collagen in the body. This is the type of collagen you’re probably thinking about if you’re interested in preserving the levels of collagen in your skin, hair or nails.** It is worth noting that, like all types of collagen, levels of type I collagen begin to decline after about age 25. Because it is so prevalent in the connective tissues, we often see the decrease of type I collagen resulting in characteristics such as sagging skin, fine lines, brittle nails and thinning hair. But type I collagen isn’t just a beauty-related substance. It’s also a major component of the tendons, organs and bones. This makes it a vital component of any diet or wellness routine — especially if you’re staying active as you age. Collagen Peptides and are primarily composed of type I collagen.
Type II Collagen
Another common type of collagen to find in supplements is type II collagen. Though somewhat less prevalent in the body than type I, type II collagen is extremely important. It is the main component of cartilage and is extremely healthy for the skeletal system. Active people who need to rely on their joints may also benefit from adding type II collagen into their diet. Our Cartilage Collagen is composed of type II collagen.
Type III Collagen
Type III collagen is also found in Vital Proteins’ line of collagen products. The third commonly found type of collagen, Type III, is generally found in reticular fibers, such as in the bone marrow. It’s usually found alongside Type I collagen in the body. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides and Marine Collagen are rich in types I and III.
What Is The Difference Between Collagen Types 1 And 2?
Type III Collagen
Type III collagen is also found in Vital Proteins’ line of collagen products. The third commonly found type of collagen, Type III, is generally found in reticular fibers, such as in the bone marrow. It’s usually found alongside Type I collagen in the body. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides and Marine Collagen are rich in types I and III.
What Is The Difference Between Collagen Types 1 And 2?
What Is The Difference Between Collagen Types 1 And 2?
While type I and type II collagen are both common forms and important for active individuals, there are quite a few differences to take note of. For starters, type I is more prevalent in connective tissues, and plays a major role in the component of the tendons, organs and bones. You can find this collagen type in Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides and Marine Collagen.
On the other hand, type II collagen is the main component of cartilage and is helpful in optimizing the skeletal system. Additionally, it is a little harder to come by in the body which is why we recommend adding Vital Proteins’ Cartilage Collagen to your regiment.
What Is The Best Source of Collagen?
When looking at bovine-, pork- or poultry-sourced collagen, you’ll want to see the words "pasture-raised" or "grass-fed" to guarantee a good source. Pasture-based, grass-fed animals are provided abundant grazing land so they can roam freely and graze on native and cultivated pastures. This system is beneficial for the environment because it naturally fertilizes the soil and reduces the amount of grain produced as feed for the animals. Rest assured, we source our grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hide. Press play on this video to learn more about where our fan-favorite collagen supplement comes from.
