What is collagen?
Collagen is an essential fibrous protein found in the human body’s connective tissues, such as the skin, hair, eyes, and bones, as well as in joint structures like tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Collagen is an important structural component of these tissues, giving them resistance and elasticity.
When it comes to joint health, collagen plays a particularly crucial role. It makes up a significant portion of the articular cartilage, which covers the end of the bones within the joints. Cartilage acts as a cushion, allowing for smooth and painless joint movements. So what is collagen used for? The body’s collagen production is essential for supporting and maintaining the integrity of this vital structure.

Unfortunately, as we age, our body’s collagen production decreases, gradually affecting the quality of this important tissue. This process begins as early as our thirties and increases around our fifties. This progressive decline in collagen production contributes over time to the degradation of articular cartilage, which can lead to joint issues such as osteoarthritis, which is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function.
To counter this natural decline in collagen production, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is recommended. Additionally, adding collagen supplements to your daily routine can help compensate for this loss. However, before choosing a collagen supplement, it is important to consider several factors, which we will discuss next.