When most people think about collagen they think about collagen face creams designed to improve the look and quality of the skin or collagen injections in the lips. Supplements containing collagen for beautiful skin have been only recently become available. The key to understanding the benefits and uses of collagen comes with knowing what it is and what it does for the body.

Collagen is the connective tissue that is found throughout the body. Its function is to hold tendons, muscles, and bones together much like a glue. Collagen is found not only in the skin, but also in the joints. As we age, collagen loses some of its elasticity and isn't as productive as it once was. The theory is that free radicals from the environment or even foods we eat gradually breaks down this very important tissue and cause it to become rigid and less able to perform its function. Aging and free radicals may also discourage new collagen production by the body. You could choose to use a topical collagen cream, but that would only benefit the skin and is probably not well absorbed into the body. A lot of attention has been on oral collagen supplements to help the whole body.

There are two types of oral collagen supplements that are currently growing in popularity. Both kinds are good for supplementing the body with amino acids and proteoglycans, which are a special type of sugars naturally found in the body. The idea is to replace the natural collagen stores that the free radicals are gradually stealing.

The first type of collagen supplement, commonly called collagen type I, is primarily found in our hair, nails, and tendons. This type is also in the bones, teeth, and eyes. This is one of the more abundant kinds of collagen in the body. Using a collagen supplement to help restore these connective tissues would benefit more than just the appearance of the skin. Movement in the joints and muscle groups may continue to be easier and you may avoid some of the aches and stiffness that often appears in middle and older age. The collagen type I supplements are often made with bovine or fish sources. Both are full of the amino acids which are so important to a healthy, youthful, strong body.

Like type I collagen, type II collagen is an important component in joint health. It is vital to the health and production of cartilage in the knees, hips, and shoulders. This kind of collagen is high in important chemicals like, hyaluronic acids, amino acids, and glucosamine. In supplement form, collagen type II is most often made from chicken sternum cartilage. It can be very useful in ensuring joint health.

Of the two types, type I collagen supplements are used more often. In addition to the benefit of improving the look and feel of the skin, there are several other areas of health that are helped.