Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, serving as the primary structural component for various tissues. It acts as the body’s scaffolding, providing strength and elasticity to skin, bones, tendons, and connective tissues. Composed mainly of the amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, its natural production slows down as a person ages. Multi-collagen protein addresses this natural decline by offering a comprehensive blend of different types of this structural material.
Defining Multi-Collagen Protein
Multi-collagen protein is a dietary supplement designed to deliver more than one type of collagen, unlike single-source supplements. This blended approach provides broader support for the body’s diverse structural needs. A typical multi-collagen product contains a combination of the most prevalent types: Type I, Type II, Type III, Type V, and Type X.
The combination of these types is based on their structural differences and locations in the body. Type I and Type III are fibrillar collagens, forming dense fibers that provide tensile strength to tissues. Type II collagen forms a looser, intricate network of fibers, suited for cushioning joints.
Manufacturers source collagen from multiple animals to ensure the inclusion of all five types. A single animal source, such as bovine, typically yields only Type I and Type III collagen. The “multi” designation signifies a formulation that intentionally combines several specialized collagen types for a more complete profile.
Primary Sources of Multi-Collagen
Sourcing multi-collagen requires several distinct animal-based materials, as no single source naturally contains all five key types. The most common raw material is bovine collagen, derived from the hides and bones of cows. This source is rich in Type I and Type III collagen, supporting skin, bone, and tendon structures.
Marine collagen comes from the skin, scales, and bones of fish and primarily supplies Type I collagen. This source is valued for its high bioavailability, meaning the body can absorb it readily. Chicken collagen, extracted from sternum and cartilage, is the main provider of Type II collagen, which is important for joint applications.
The remaining collagen types are obtained from eggshell membrane, the thin layer between the egg white and the shell. Eggshell membrane naturally contains a blend of Type I, Type V, and Type X collagen. Combining these four distinct sources—bovine, marine, chicken, and eggshell membrane—allows a multi-collagen supplement to deliver the full spectrum of types.
Targeted Functions of Different Collagen Types
The inclusion of multiple collagen types allows the supplement to target various physiological functions simultaneously. Type I collagen is the most abundant, constituting over 90% of the collagen in the human body. Its primary function is to provide tensile strength and structure, supporting the integrity of the skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.
Type II collagen is structurally distinct and serves as the major component of hyaline cartilage, which covers the ends of bones in joints. Its role is to provide cushioning and flexibility, supporting joint mobility and cartilage health. This structural arrangement provides the necessary shock absorption for movement.
Type III collagen often works alongside Type I in the structure of organs, arteries, and the skin. It is important for maintaining the elasticity and firmness of the skin and is also found in blood vessel walls. Type V collagen plays a role in the surface of cells, hair formation, and is a component of the placenta.
Type X collagen is primarily associated with the development and maintenance of bone and articular cartilage. It is a marker of endochondral ossification, the process by which cartilage is converted into bone during growth and repair. Multi-collagen is designed to offer broad support across the body’s diverse connective tissues by supplying these different types.