Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, and is a major component of your skin, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. However, collagen levels begin to decline with advancing age, so supplementing with collagen may help to restore optimal collagen levels in the body.
The two most prevalent forms of collagen are undenatured type II collagen (UC-II®, a patented ingredient) and hydrolyzed collagen.
Structure
At a structural level, the collagen protein is a triplex helix made up of three alpha chains. Each alpha chain is made of amino acids – Mainly glycine (33%) and hydroxyproline (22%). Almost thirty types of collagens are present in the body. (1)
Type II collagen is found in the cartilages, which is why it’s often derived from chicken sternum cartilage for supplementation. Meanwhile, hydrolyzed collagen is created through intensive processing to decrease the molecular mass of the collagen molecules. This hydrolysis process breaks the molecules into smaller pieces to increase absorption. (2)
Dosage
UC-II® should be taken in a low dose of 40mg per day. It’s recommended to take one capsule at bedtime on an empty stomach.
Meanwhile, hydrolyzed collagen is taken at comparatively high doses of 10-20 grams per day.
Given the difference in dosages, UC-II® typically comes in capsule form while you may find hydrolyzed collagen in the form of powders, gummies, and more.
Main Benefits
UC-II® works through an immune mediated mechanism known as oral tolerance. When UC-II® is taken orally, the body’s autoimmune response is reduced. Regulatory T-cells in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) are triggered to increase joint cartilage repair and suppress joint inflammation. (3)
UC-II® has been shown to significantly decrease post-physical activity joint discomfort, improve knee extension, and increase range of motion. (4)
Hydrolyzed collagen may help to support cartilage integrity, skin elasticity, bone density, and muscle mass. (5)
| Feature |
Undenatured Type II Collagen (UC-II®) |
Hydrolyzed Collagen |
| Source | Chicken sternum cartilage | Bovine, porcine, marine, poultry |
| Structure | Intact triplex helix structure | Broken into peptides via hydrolysis |
| Dose | 40mg per day | 10-20g per day |
| Mechanism of Action | Modulates immune response via oral tolerance | Provides essential amino acids |
| Main Benefit | Supports healthy joint comfort, mobility, and flexibility | Supports hair, skin, nails, and overall health |
Which Type of Collagen Should You Take?
The collagen that you choose depends on your health goals.
If you’re focused on joint health, UC-II® is generally the preferred type for addressing joint pain and inflammation through its unique mechanism of action. For hair, skin, nails, and general support, hydrolyzed collagen is an effective choice.
Support an Active Lifestyle with Healthy Origins
At Healthy Origins, we offer UC-II® in a 40mg dose designed to support healthy joint comfort, mobility and flexibility. This patented ingredient is manufactured through a low-temperature non-enzymatic manufacturing process, which ensures its bioavailability in the body.
Our supplements are always non-GMO, third-party tested, and contain zero fillers. Visit our Joint Health Collection to discover even more premium formulations to support healthy movement!
Citations
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6891674/
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8556166/
[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12010644/
[4] https://www.capsugel.com/nutraceutical-solutions/ingredients/ucii-type-II-collagen
[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10058045/
