What are the health benefits of marine collagen?

What is collagen? 

Collagen is a protein naturally present in the human body. Its role is to provide structure, strength, regeneration and elasticity.

The human body contains more than 16 different types of collagen. Each of them has a different structure and function. Nevertheless, the majority (80 to 90%) of the human body is made up of three types of collagen:

• Type 1 collagen: it ensures the structure of the skin, bone tissue, tendons, teeth, fibrous cartilage and connective tissue. It is the most common type of collagen in the human body and is made up of very dense and solid fibers,
  
• Type 2 collagen: it contains more flexible fibers and plays an essential role in the functioning of the joints. It is found in elastic cartilage,
  
• Type 3 collagen: it is mainly found in muscles, organs and blood vessel walls.
  

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body (more than 30% of total proteins) and is found almost everywhere.

Collagen is a polypeptide. It is therefore composed of a chain of amino acids that are linked together by peptide bonds. Amino acids are naturally produced by our body, and can also be supplied through our diet.

Collagen is produced by different types of cells, in particular by cells called fibroblasts. The fibroblasts are located within the connective tissues. They enable the assembly of amino acids into polypeptides and thus create collagen.

However, from the age of 40 onwards, the body's production of collagen decreases by an average of 1% each year. Certain factors, such as smoking, sunlight, stress or poor diet, can accelerate this decrease. As we age, our skin becomes less firm, our joints can become painful and arthritis or osteoarthritis can develop.

It can therefore be beneficial to supplement with collagen.

What is marine collagen? 

Marine collagen is a relatively new active ingredient on the dietary supplement market. For a long time, collagen supplements were only formulated from the bones and skin of cattle or pigs.

Marine collagen, on the other hand, is extracted from the skin, bones and scales of fish. The chemical structure of marine collagen is very similar to that of collagen synthesized by the human body.

Marine collagen is very popular in the form of food supplements, but is also widely used in cosmetics for producing anti-ageing creams. In biomedicine, marine collagen is used to make dressings, artificial skin and materials for bone reconstruction.

Marine collagen-based food supplements come in various forms: capsules, tablets, sticks to be diluted in water, or liquid forms. To reinforce the benefits of marine collagen, it can be combined with other active ingredients such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.

Consuming marine collagen supplements does not bear any risks. Indeed, since it shares many similarities with native human collagen, it is very well tolerated by our body. To date, no major side effects from using marine collagen have been reported.

However, as a precautionary measure, it is recommended to seek medical advice for pregnant or breastfeeding women and for people undergoing medical treatment.

Be careful, however, as not all products available on the market have the same marine collagen dosage. It is recommended to refer to the indications provided by the manufacturer. If you have any doubts about the dosage, do not hesitate to speak to your doctor.

What are the health benefits of marine collagen supplements? 

Anti-ageing benefits for the skin 

Collagen is a structural protein of the skin that contributes to its elasticity and suppleness. That is why, with age, when collagen is lacking, the skin becomes thinner and wrinkled.

Marine collagen has numerous benefits for the skin. It has a powerful antioxidant effect that helps to fight wrinkles. Studies have shown that consuming marine collagen not only helps fight the signs of ageing but also improves the hydration, elasticity and quality of the epidermis. The anti-ageing properties of marine collagen are increased when combined with other active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or vitamin C.

Healthy hair and nails 

When our body's natural collagen production decreases, hair can become dull and nails brittle. Marine collagen, rich in glycine and proline (amino acids), helps tissues and hair grow properly. As a result, nails and hair grow faster and become stronger. 

Healthy joints 

Collagen represents 90% of the total organic bone mass and plays a particularly important role when it comes to joints and cartilage.

Several studies have shown that a course of marine collagen supplements can relieve joint pain. In addition, marine collagen supplementation could help preserve joint health and thus prevent joint degradation and associated pain.

Positive results have been observed in people suffering from exercise-related pain as well as in people suffering from rheumatic pain.

Essential to the body, collagen becomes scarce with age. Marine collagen can therefore be a perfect solution to bring suppleness to your skin and elasticity to your joints. Its supplements also very easy to take, and can be used daily.