Hydrolysed collagen

Collagen hydrolysate – what is it?

Collagen hydrolysate, is a product obtained by the hydrolysis of collagen protein, during which the long collagen chains are broken down into smaller peptides and free amino acids. Unlike naturally derived collagen, hydrolysate undergoes a chemical or enzymatic process, which makes its structure more diverse and more bioavailable to the body. This type of collagen has a lower molecular weight, which makes it easier to digest and absorb through the intestines.

Hydrolysed collagen – properties

According to an article published in the scientific journal Molecules, hydrolysed collagen, resulting from the hydrolysis process, is distinguished by at least 28 types of collagen, each of which plays an important role in the structure of various tissues[1]. Particularly valuable is type I collagen, which is present in the skin, bones, teeth, tendons and ligaments and covers almost 90% of our body[2]. The process of hydrolysis, during which the bonds in the polypeptide chain are broken down, generates collagen peptides of low molecular weight. It is this characteristic that makes hydrolysed collagen extremely highly bioavailable, facilitating its efficient absorption and distribution in the body. Derived from a variety of sources such as fish, beef or pork, hydrolysed collagen is used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries. Its presence in skin, cartilage, tendons and bones and, in the case of fish, in scales and bones, highlights its versatility and potential in various fields.

Effect of collagen hydrolysate

Hydrolysed collagen, the result of a hydrolysis process, hides powerful health and beauty benefits. Its properties include not only the regulation of nutritional status by increasing the availability of building compounds for the skin and organs, but also comprehensive support for specific areas of the body.

Collagen’s uniquely documented effect on relieving joint pain[3], especially for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis[4], makes it a valuable part of the diet for those struggling with joint complaints. Additionally, the collagen peptides in the hydrolysate support bone health by increasing the bioavailability of calcium[5].

The role of hydrolysed collagen in inhibiting the body’s ageing process is also extremely important[6]. As we age, collagen production declines, affecting both skeletal health and the aesthetic appearance of the skin. Collagen hydrolysate can provide effective support in this context, especially for the elderly, whose natural collagen production is significantly lower.

In addition, collagen’s effect on the cardiovascular system adds further value. Research indicates that supplementation can have a beneficial effect on LDL cholesterol levels and systolic blood pressure, as documented in a study involving 32 healthy Japanese adults. Participants took 8 grams of collagen twice a day for six months, which resulted in a slight increase in ‘good’ HDL cholesterol and a reduction in arterial stiffness. In addition, there was a decrease in the ratio of bad LDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol in those with a baseline ratio greater than 2.5[7].

Collagen hydrolysate, known as the protein of youth, also has an extremely beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails. Supplementation contributes to the shallowing of wrinkles, improving skin firmness and making the skin more resilient and taut[8]. Additionally, it helps in the fight against cellulite and stretch marks[9]. The effect of hydrolysed collagen on hair is equally important. A moisturised and healthy scalp provides essential nutrients to the hair roots, promoting proper hair growth. The amino acid glycine, present in collagen, plays an important role in the structure of keratin, the main component of hair and nails. Therefore, collagen hydrolysate can support dreams of lush, shiny hair and strong, damage-resistant nails[10,11].

Forms of hydrolysed collagen supplementation

Hydrolysed collagen comes in various forms, each associated with individual properties and applications. We can distinguish hydrolysed collagen by, among other things, the source and the form of the supplement.

Hydrolysed collagen supplement source:

The source of hydrolysed collagen plays an important role when choosing a supplement, as it affects both its properties and effectiveness. It is crucial to choose supplements from reliable sources that ensure high quality and safety. Fish or bovine collagen – which is better?

• Fish collagen: also known as marine collagen, is a protein mainly extracted from fish waste such as skins, bones and scales. Its unique feature is its low molecular weight, which makes it very easily absorbed by the body. This property makes marine collagen a popular choice for supplementation, especially for those seeking to rapidly support skin regeneration, improve elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
• Bovine collagen: is a protein extracted mainly from the skin, bones and tendons of cattle. Its characteristic feature is its higher molecular weight compared to fish collagen, which makes it absorbed more slowly and less efficiently by the body. Despite this, bovine collagen has valuable health-promoting properties, supporting joint, bone and skin health.

Hydrolysed collagen supplement forms:

With regard to the form of the supplement, it can distinguish between two types, which, thanks to the hydrolysis process, have the greatest assimilability and effectiveness.

• Collagen powder: this is one of the most popular forms of supplementation for this protein. The practical form makes it easy to add collagen to a variety of drinks, smoothies and foods, making it convenient to use. Powdered collagen is also well tolerated by the body, making it a popular choice for those looking for a convenient form of collagen supplementation, tailored to their individual intake needs.
• Collagen in liquid form is one of the most efficiently absorbed and well-tolerated forms of supplementation for this protein – it passes quickly through the digestive system and then reaches various body tissues just as quickly. Drinkable collagen is also available in a variety of flavours, adding to the enjoyment of the daily supplement. These properties make liquid collagen an attractive option for those wishing to benefit from the beneficial effects of collagen in a convenient and tasty form.

Which collagen is better – hydrolysed or freeze-dried?

Both forms of this protein show similar effects in the body. Both hydrolysed and freeze-dried fish collagen have a very good amino acid composition. If the aim is to take a prophylactic action to minimise collagen loss from the body, both forms – hydrolysed and freeze-dried – are good options.

However, it is important to look at the collagen content of the products. Some may only offer small amounts, while effective supplementation may require doses of several thousand milligrams per day. After both freeze-dried and hydrolysed collagen are ingested, the digestive process breaks down the protein into individual amino acids or smaller molecules, called peptides. The final choice between hydrolysed and lyophilised collagen should be based on individual preferences and needs, taking into account availability, dosage and expected effects of supplementation. It is also worth noting that the lyophilisation process is much more expensive, which also results in a higher price of a supplement with lyophilised collagen, compared to hydrolysed collagen.

Summary: Hydrolysed collagen

Hydrolysed collagen is the form of supplement with the greatest bioavailability and effectiveness. The hydrolysis process that collagen goes through converts it into smaller peptides, which promotes faster absorption by the body. Collagen hydrolysate has a number of benefits, such as supporting skin, joint and bone health, as well as influencing tissue elasticity and firmness. Its use can be particularly beneficial in the prevention of the body’s ageing processes. In addition to the type of collagen, when choosing a supplement, it is also worth paying attention to its source and form, among which drinkable and powdered collagen are the best choices.