What’s the Difference in Type 1, 2 and 3 Collagen
May 26, 2020
Collagen can be an incredible addition to your health but can also be confusing once you explore the various types. In order to learn which one is right for you, it’s important to understand what each type does.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. As part of your connective tissue, it holds your bones, tendons, ligaments and skin in place. While your body makes collagen on its own, production slows with age. By age 40, production decreases by 25% and by age 60, it decreases by 50%. This leads to the breakdown of tissues associated with aging – wrinkled, sagging skin and weaker, painful joints.
There are at least 15 types of collagen, but 80-90% of the collagen in your body is made up of Types 1, 2 and 3.
Type 1 Collagen
Type 1 is the most common type of collagen and makes up 90% of your hair, skin, and nails, making it a popular ingredient for beauty creams and supplements. Type 1 collagen is famous for minimizing fine lines, promoting skin elasticity, and keeping hair thick and nails strong. It’s also important for organs, bones, spine, and ligaments and is even found in the GI tract. Type 1 consists of densely packed fibers and is the strongest type of collagen.
Type 2 Collagen
Type 2 is the major collagen found in cartilage, spinal disks and eyes. Type 2 consists of loosely packed fibers which help to cushion joints and keeps them strong and flexible. Type 2 also supplies naturally occurring glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid and supports digestive and immune health as well.
Type 3 Collagen
Type 3 is found in smaller amounts alongside Type 1, so there is a lot of overlap between what these two do. It’s found in large quantities in your intestines, where it’s vital for gut and immune health. Type 3 also plays a role in muscles, blood vessels and cardiovascular health.
Although it’s possible to obtain extra collagen from your diet through consuming animal bone cartilage and poultry skin, that can be unappealing, so many choose to supplement. Once you identify your specific goals, look for a high-quality collagen supplement, cream or serum based on your needs.
