Understanding the role of collagen and different types
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, providing structure to skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. As the body ages, natural collagen production slows down, leading many people to seek out supplements. However, not all collagen is the same. Researchers have identified at least 28 different types, but a few are particularly relevant for supplements.
- Type 1: This is the most abundant type, making up about 90% of the body's collagen. It provides structure to skin, bones, and tendons and is most often sourced from bovine or marine sources.
- Type 2: This type is found primarily in elastic cartilage, which provides cushioning and support for joints. It is often sourced from chicken sternum cartilage.
- Type 3: Often found alongside type 1, this type is present in muscles, arteries, and organs.
Ancient Nutrition's multi-collagen approach
Ancient Nutrition distinguishes its products with a multi-collagen complex, which is the key to providing type 2 collagen. Instead of focusing on just one or two types, their signature blend combines multiple sources to deliver a broader spectrum of benefits. This multi-source strategy ensures that a single product can support skin, hair, nails, and joints simultaneously.
How does Ancient Nutrition get type 2 collagen?
Ancient Nutrition sources its collagen from multiple real-food origins, including:
- Bovine hide collagen peptides: A primary source for Type I and Type III collagen, benefiting skin and bones.
- Chicken bone broth concentrate: This is a crucial source of Type II collagen, specifically targeted for cartilage and joint support.
- Fermented eggshell membrane collagen: Provides a comprehensive profile, including Type II, V, and X, further supporting joint health, skin, and nails.
- Hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides: Delivers additional Type I collagen, which is known for its high bioavailability.
By including chicken bone broth and eggshell membrane, Ancient Nutrition ensures that its multi-collagen products contain the specific type 2 collagen that supports joint and cartilage health. This approach is designed to provide holistic support for the body's connective tissues.
Multi-collagen vs. single-source collagen
Choosing between a multi-collagen and a single-source collagen depends on your specific health goals. A single-source collagen may be more focused on one benefit, while a multi-collagen offers a more rounded approach.
| Feature | Multi-Collagen (Ancient Nutrition) | Single-Source Collagen (e.g., Bovine Peptides) |
|---|---|---|
| Types Included | Contains multiple types, including I, II, III, V, and X | Focuses on one type, usually Type I and III |
| Sourcing | Multiple sources (beef, chicken, fish, eggshell membrane) | Single animal source (e.g., bovine hide) |
| Targeted Benefits | Full-body support for skin, hair, nails, gut, and joints | Typically more focused on skin, bone, and tendon health |
| Joint Focus | Explicitly includes Type II from chicken sources for joint support | May not contain Type II collagen |
| Cost | Can be more expensive due to complex sourcing | Often more affordable, depending on the brand and source |
The importance of hydrolysis and fermentation
Ancient Nutrition utilizes both hydrolysis and fermentation to improve the effectiveness of their collagen products.
- Hydrolysis: This process breaks down large collagen molecules into smaller, more easily absorbed peptides. This improves bioavailability, allowing the body to use the collagen more efficiently.
- Fermentation: A unique aspect of Ancient Nutrition's process, fermentation, particularly of the eggshell membrane collagen, is said to boost the bioavailability of nutrients. The company claims this fermentation process helps maximize collagen support within the body.
Potential benefits of type 2 collagen
Type 2 collagen is primarily known for its benefits related to cartilage and joint health. Research into its efficacy, particularly in undenatured form, suggests a potential role in improving joint mobility and reducing discomfort associated with conditions like osteoarthritis. By including it, multi-collagen supplements aim to provide targeted support for joint health, complementing the benefits that types I and III offer for skin and bones.
Considerations: While multi-collagen products like Ancient Nutrition's offer a wide range of benefits, it's essential to consider your individual health goals. If your primary concern is skin health, a marine-based Type I supplement might be sufficient. However, for a comprehensive approach that includes joint support, a multi-collagen blend that explicitly contains Type II collagen is a better choice.
Conclusion
Yes, Ancient Nutrition's multi-collagen products contain type 2 collagen. The company uses a multi-sourced approach, including chicken bone broth concentrate and fermented eggshell membrane, to incorporate type 2 along with other beneficial types. This strategy provides comprehensive support for joint health, in addition to benefits for skin, hair, nails, and gut health. The inclusion of hydrolyzed and fermented collagen also helps enhance absorption, making it a well-rounded supplement for those seeking broad-spectrum collagen support. For anyone specifically targeting joint support with a convenient multi-collagen formula, Ancient Nutrition provides the necessary Type 2 collagen from its diverse ingredient list.
Additional resources
For a deeper dive into how collagen supports joint health, consider reading more on the mechanisms behind type 2 collagen at the Arthritis Foundation website.
/FAQs
What are the main benefits of collagen type 2?
Type 2 collagen is primarily beneficial for supporting joint health by maintaining the strength and flexibility of cartilage, which cushions the joints. It is a key component for healthy, mobile joints.
Is Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen good for joints?
Yes, Ancient Nutrition's Multi Collagen Protein is formulated to be beneficial for joints. It contains Type 2 collagen, which specifically supports cartilage, and also includes other types from sources like chicken bone broth and eggshell membrane that promote joint health.
What is the source of type 2 collagen in Ancient Nutrition products?
Ancient Nutrition sources its type 2 collagen primarily from chicken bone broth concentrate and fermented eggshell membrane. These are real-food sources known to contain this specific type of collagen.
Are all collagen supplements the same?
No, all collagen supplements are not the same. They can differ in the types of collagen they contain (e.g., Type I, II, III), their sourcing (e.g., bovine, marine, chicken), and how they are processed (e.g., hydrolyzed, undenatured).
Can you get all types of collagen from one supplement?
Yes, multi-collagen supplements like Ancient Nutrition's are designed to provide several types of collagen from different sources in a single product. Their blend includes types I, II, III, V, and X.
What is the difference between hydrolyzed and undenatured collagen?
Hydrolyzed collagen has been broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed peptides, while undenatured collagen retains its original, intact structure and works differently within the body, often targeting the immune response related to joint cartilage. Ancient Nutrition utilizes both hydrolysis and fermentation for their products.
How does fermentation improve collagen absorption?
Ancient Nutrition claims that its fermentation process, particularly for the eggshell membrane collagen, boosts the bioavailability of nutrients, making it easier for the body to absorb and utilize the collagen peptides.
