There are a number of collagen supplements on the Czech market. They differ in source, form, quantity, price and purpose. There are also differences in their effectiveness, because collagen itself and its form are only the basis. The effects of the contained collagen are significantly influenced by the overall composition of the food supplement, i.e. the combination with other substances.
What is collagen and why is it important?
Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that is a common part of the human body. It is found in various structures of the body and forms a significant part of connective tissues. Collagen makes up approximately a third all of ours protein and has a major impact on skin elasticity, hair and nail strength and joint condition. The structure of collagen is like a carefully woven rope. It helps hold together skin, joints, tendons, bones and blood vessels.5.
- In terms of composition It is a specific type of protein with a characteristic structure. If our body receives enough quality protein, vitamin C in the diet6and other micronutrients, it can produce collagen in very decent quantities on its own.
- From a nutritional point of view What is especially interesting for the human body are strong bone broths, meat containing tendons and skin, fish, eggs and dairy products, which supply the body with amino acids necessary for the production of collagen.
Roughly from the age of twenty-five, the production of natural collagen gradually decreases and the problem also arises when exertion, stress, lack of sleep and poor-quality diet are added. That's when the question of using collagen comes into play. But which one to choose?
3 important types of collagen
More than 20 types of collagen have been scientifically described, with three of the most important for humans:
- Type I collagen – forms the basis of skin, hair, nails, bones and tendons.
- Type II collagen – is crucial for cartilage and joint mobility.
- Type III collagen – found in the skin, muscles and blood vessel walls, often in combination with type I.
How are which forms absorbed?
Collagen appears on the market in several forms, which differ not only in origin but also in processing, and therefore in the way our body can use it. We divide them into:
- Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides), which is generally considered to be best absorbed. Thanks to the hydrolysis process, it is broken down into smaller fragments that the body can process more quickly and direct to where it is needed (into the skin, joints or tendons). The use of hydrolyzed collagen in doses of approximately one to ten grams has been monitored by a number of studies.1,2,3
- Native collagen ("undigested") in its natural unaltered (non-hydrolyzed) form, which has a large molecule and a different mechanism of action. It is not absorbed in the digestive tract in the same way as hydrolyzed collagen, but acts in smaller amounts as a stimulator of natural processes in the body. It can help especially with increased stress musculoskeletal system, and therefore it is sometimes used by people who want to provide maximum support for their joints and ligaments.
- Gelatin collagen is produced by partial hydrolysis and is used in food industry and as a base for food supplements. Its absorbability is lower than that of the hydrolyzed form.
Who are collagen supplements suitable for?
The benefits of collagen supplements will be appreciated by people after their thirties, when its natural production begins to slowly decline. It can also be useful for athletes and active people whose joints, tendons and ligaments are put under more strain over the long term. It is also suitable for those who know that their diet is not exactly exemplary, and of course for everyone who wants to take care of their skin, hair and nails.
But it is important to know that collagen does not work as a quick cosmetic trick, but rather as long-term investment in the body. 1,2,4
Collagen sources
On the Czech market, collagen in dietary supplements is obtained mainly from animal sources.
The most common are:
- Beef collagen, which is made from beef raw material, is widely available and frequently used.
- Pork collagen, which has similar properties to beef, is slightly less widespread on the market.
- Marine (fish) collagen, which comes from fish ingredients, usually has a finer structure and is associated with good absorbability.
When you want perfect skin
Those looking for comprehensive nutrition for their skin, hair and nails should focus on the following parameters when choosing:
- Form collagen – Hydrolyzed collagen (so-called collagen peptides) is the basis. Through a process called hydrolysis is collagen broken down into smaller molecules, thanks to which it is better absorbable and the body can use it directly where it is needed. On the other hand, uncut collagen is absorbs only minimally and its effect is therefore much weaker.
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Origin collagen:
- Marine (fish) collagen It has a naturally lower molecular weight than collagen from land animals, which means it is more easily hydrolyzed into small peptides, is highly soluble, and is ideal for skin, hair and nailsIt is easily absorbed, making it an ideal choice for those looking for promoting a youthful appearance.
- Bovine collagen is obtained from the connective tissues of cattle and contains mainly types I and III and is often the choice for athletes or people with higher physical exertion.
- Chicken collagen is particularly rich in type II, which is a building block articular cartilageTherefore, this variant is mainly used in dietary supplements aimed at caring for joints and the musculoskeletal system.
What affects the effectiveness of collagen?
Collagen itself is the basis, because its effects are significantly enhanced by combinations with other substances. Vitamin C It is absolutely essential – it contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin and cartilage. It is ideal if it is directly included in the supplement.
Zinc contributes to maintaining a normal state skin, hair and nailswhile hyaluronic acid helps maintain hydration and skin elasticityHowever, other materials are also suitable, such as biotinwhich contributes to maintaining a normal state hair and skin.
All these helpers are included Beggs Beauty and Glow collagen, which is additionally enriched with a patented ingredient Ceramosides™ – phytoceramides from wheat (yet they are gluten free!). These help retain moisture in the skin by supporting its protective layer.
Beggs Beauty and Glow collagen in mango or blackcurrant flavor is a premium collagen dietary supplement that not only tastes great, but its unique composition helps maximize the effect of the collagen contained. Thanks to this, it can satisfy the needs of everyone who knows that beautiful skin, flexible nails and shiny hair It needs to be supported primarily from within.
The most common myths about collagen
- Just use a collagen cream. Collagen has too large molecules to penetrate the skin into the deeper layers. Therefore, the effect of creams is more moisturizing, not regenerating. The real results are brought by collagen taken internally.
- All collagens work the same way. The differences in origin (seafood, beef, chicken) and form (hydrolyzed, native, gelatin) are fundamental. Each type has a slightly different effect and is suitable for different needs (skin, joints or overall regeneration).
- The effects will occur immediately. For visible results, regular use in a sufficient dose (most often 2.5–10 g per day) is required, with the effects usually only becoming apparent after a few weeks. 1,2,3
- Collagen is just a marketing gimmick. Clinical studies confirm that regular collagen intake can support skin elasticity and hydration, or contribute to the regeneration of the musculoskeletal system after physical exertion. However, it is important to choose a quality product with a clearly stated composition.
- Only people over forty need collagen. Collagen production begins to decline around the age of 25. Preventive supplementation can therefore make sense even at a younger age, especially for athletes, people with higher loads, or those who want to support the beauty of their skin, hair, and nails.
FAQ – frequently asked questions about collagen
What does hydrolyzed collagen mean?
Hydrolyzed collagen is collagen that has been broken down into smaller parts (peptides) during production, making it easier to dissolve and better absorbed.
What form of collagen is best?
Collagen is available in powder, capsule, or liquid form. The differences lie mainly in the convenience of use and the amount of collagen in a single dose, not in the usability itself.
Why do capsules often have a lower collagen content?
Capsules have a limited capacity, so they usually contain a smaller amount of collagen than powder or liquid forms.
Does it make sense to monitor the amount of collagen in a dose?
Yes, the amount of collagen in one dose varies significantly between products and is one of the basic pieces of information for orientation in the offer.
Which collagen is best for the body?
Hydrolyzed collagen is generally considered to be the most usable, regardless of whether it comes from a beef, pork or fish source.
Do accompanying substances affect the usability of collagen?
Yes, the effects of collagen in a food supplement can be significantly enhanced by combining it with other substances, such as vitamin C or zinc.
1. Proksch, E., M. Schunck, V. Zague, D. Segger, J. Degwert a S. Oesser. Oral Intake of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Increases Dermal Matrix Synthesis. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology. 2013.
2. Asserin, J., E. Lati, T. Shioya a J. Prawitt. The effect of oral collagen peptide supplementation on skin moisture and the dermal collagen network: evidence from an ex vivo model and randomized, placebo controlled clinical trials. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2015.
3. Evans, M., E. D. Lewis, N. Zakaria, T. Pelipyagina a N. Guthrie. A randomized, triple blind, placebo controlled, parallel study to evaluate the efficacy of a freshwater marine collagen on skin wrinkles and elasticity. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2021.
4. Clark, Kristine L., Wayne Sebastianelli, Klaus R. Flechsenhar, et al. 24 Week study on the use of collagen hydrolysate as a dietary supplement in athletes with activity related joint pain. Current Medical Research and Opinion. 2008.
5. Liu, X., H. Wu, M. Byrne, S. Krane a R. Jaenisch. Type III collagen is crucial for collagen I fibrillogenesis and for normal cardiovascular development. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. 1997.
6. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin.
