Collagen To Preserve The Joints

Collagen is a substance present in our body, in several organs. It is part of the joints and the passage of time deteriorates it.

Collagen is a protein that is synthesized naturally in the body, from amino acids that are obtained through food. Nevertheless, over time and as we age, it is normal for the synthesis of this protein to decrease,  which affects the joints.

So, at age 35, the body begins to produce less collagen. It is therefore recommended to absorb collagen exogenously from this point on. Thanks to it, we help to preserve our joints and improve our movements.

It is also essential to maintain an active and healthy life, by doing regular physical exercise and eating a balanced diet. Collagen supplements, by themselves, are not able to counteract the effects of sedentary lifestyle or inadequate nutrition.

Deficiencies and deterioration of collagen

One of the causes of collagen deficiency is the diet poor in vitamin C.  This deficiency can lead to the development of scurvy, a disease that appears because of a fault in the synthesis of collagen, due to a lack of ascorbic acid. It is for this reason that many supplements for the regeneration and maintenance of joint health contain the associated vitamin C.

Furthermore, although regular exercise is fundamental to a healthy lifestyle, intense  exercise can be a major cause of joint deterioration  and, therefore, the cause of collagen fiber ruptures.

Main types of collagen

Depending on the type of tissue it is made of and its location,  collagen can be classified into four types:

• Type 1:  it is predominant in the dermis, bone, tendons and cornea. Its purpose is to offer resistance to the stretching of structures.
• Type 2:  it is localized mainly in the cartilage, forming small fine fibers. Its main function is to provide resistance to intermittent pressure. In addition, it is the type of collagen most used in commercial supplements and the most studied to try to cure or maintain the health of the joints.
• Type 3:  It is very present in loose connective tissue, on the walls of blood vessels, in the dermis and in the stroma of the glands. It has a support function.
• Type 4:  it forms the thin base layer of the epithelium and has the function of providing support and filtration.

Where does the collagen used in commercial supplements come from?

Most of the collagen used in joint supplements is hydrolyzed type 2 collagen.  This is because it emulates the type of collagen found in joint cartilage.

Obtaining this type of collagen is done in two ways:

• Direct extraction of tissues rich in collagen:  some of these tissues are the skin, bones and cartilages of fauna. Through a series of chemical reactions, the substance is extracted from the bodies of animals. The problem with this form of production is that it is very expensive: its applications are therefore limited.
• Extraction methods without enzymes: for the extraction of this substance by this route, the enzymes of the previous method are not necessary. Collagen is extracted through hydrolysis in acidic or basic media from skin, bones and cartilage. The cost of obtaining through this second method is lower but, unfortunately, its field of application is quite limited. Moreover, in the pharmaceutical and food industry, the hydrolyzed collagen must be as pure as possible, which ends up adding a cost to the process.

Foods That Help You Strengthen Your Joints

Good joint health also depends on a good diet  because certain foods have properties that complement collagen. Here is a series of beneficial foods:

• Water:  it is fundamental because the joints are bathed in synovial fluid, which reduces the friction between the cartilages and other tissues. It is recommended that at least 2 liters per day be ingested.
• Blue fish:  it is rich in omega-3 acids, a powerful anti-inflammatory. In addition, it also protects cell membranes from oxidative processes.
• Foods rich in vitamin C:  as we commented, vitamin C is fundamental for the synthesis of collagen. The consumption of fruits and vegetables should therefore be daily.

Conclusion

Collagen to preserve the joints is essential from a certain age. There are many supplements of this protein available to the general population.

However, it is not a commercial product that will stop the aging process in the joints. Establishing an exercise routine and eating a balanced diet is essential. You can consult a pharmacist or doctor to find out which supplement is best for you.