Collagen is a protein that makes up the structure of the body. Collagen is a matrix of interwoven fibers found in tissues throughout the body – such as tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bones, blood vessels, skin, and many more. Think of it like the studs of your house or the glue that holds your tissues together.
Collagen production naturally declines as we age, and therefore the structure of our body weakens and breaks down. Loss of collagen in connective tissue over time is a main factor in the telltale signs of joint aging like instability, inflexibility, loss of range of motion, increased risk of injury, slower rate of repair, pain, inflammation, and degenerative joint conditions. Collagen supplements help stimulate the body to produce collagen at a faster rate and reduce or reverse the natural decline of collagen. Connective tissue is rebuilt and joint function may be improved.
Type 1&3 and Type 2 are found in different tissues of the body. Types 1&3 are found in structures like ligaments, tendons, fascia and bones. Type 2 collagen is only found in cartilage.
That answer can get a little tricky. All joints are made of 4 main structures – bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. The first 3 – bones, ligaments, tendons – are made of Types 1&3 collagen, while cartilage made of Type 2 collagen. Any joint could have a cartilage issue, a ligament/tendon issue, or both at once. Ideally, you would want to take correct type of collagen to support the specific tissue in need. Use the reverse side of this sheet to help determine which tissue might be affected and what the best NeoCell product would be for you.*
In general, if the joint clicks, pops, or sounds “crunchy” inside you may consider Type 2 collagen for a cartilage issue. For painful and swollen joints - especially from twisting, overextending or repetitive movements – consider Types 1&3 collagen. All NeoCell products contain Types 1&3 except Collagen2 Joint Complex and Flex5 Matrix.
Type 2 should not be taken with Types 1&3 because each type is produced by a different cell in the body. Type 2 is produced by chondrocytes and Types 1&3 are produced by fibroblasts and osteoblasts. Each specialized cell is stimulated by the unique amino acid profile found in the found in the type of collagen it produces. While it is not dangerous to mix all three types, the supplement would have diminished effectiveness if combined. Think of it like diluting or changing the special amino acids in the supplement. However, taking Types 1&3 and Type 2 supplements during the same day with several hours in between (e.g., one in the morning and one at night) is perfectly fine, and even encouraged for complete joint tissue support.
In bones, calcium and other minerals aren’t alone, they are deposited around a framework of collagen that holds everything together - much like rebar in the cement foundation of a building. Collagen also gives bones a little flexibility, which is extremely important! Without collagen, bones might be dense, but also rigid and brittle - much like a piece of chalk that is packed tightly together but snaps under a small amount of pressure. Because collagen progressively declines as we age, elderly people have little collagen left in their bones and are at risk of having weak, porous bones that are easily broken.
NeoCell supplements begin working immediately in the body, but collagen in our tissues takes time to rebuild and strengthen, so results can vary. Some people report feeling better within days or weeks, others report results in 1-2 months based on their desired benefit. We encourage customers to take a full month’s supply before evaluating results. Because collagen is a matrix that is woven into the body, the results will last for months or years even after discontinuing use. It becomes a part of you!
Collagen does not directly act as a pain reliever or reduce inflammation. However, when an injury occurs in the body the natural physical response is for the body to send a pain signal the brain that damage and protect the area with inflammation and swelling. When the body repairs the damage swelling goes away and the pain signal stops. Since connective tissue in the joints is made of collagen we can see that the regeneration of collagen tissues may alleviate the need for pain and swelling in the joint to be present. In other words, if there’s no damage to joint collagen, the pain and inflammation response may not be needed.
Our best-selling Super Collagen Types 1&3 collagen comes from bovine (cow) hides. The cows are ethically raised and free of GMOs, hormones and antibiotics. Some people prefer to avoid bovine sources, so we offer a marine collagen. Fishing is season and we are not able to guarantee the species of fish, but rest assured that all marine collagen is carefully filtered so the end product in our bottles remains the same. Our Type 2 Collagen Joint Complex is derived from chicken cartilage.
No. Cellulose gives plants structure, collagen gives animals structure. Collagen does not naturally exist in plants.
Collagen is very safe. If you can eat protein, you can probably take NeoCell collagen supplements. Always check with your doctor if you have any concerns.
All of these nutrients can help joint health, but collagen acts in a different way. Collagen stimulates the production of new collagen at the cellular level by activating collagen building cells. Tissues are regenerated and the structure of tissues improves because of the increased collagen production. Other joint nutrients may be components of healthy joint tissue, but don’t offer the same benefit of collagen stimulation. We recommend starting with NeoCell Collagen first, then adding in additional nutrients as secondary support if desired.
An antioxidant can neutralize free radical damage in the joints that can destroy tissues and cause inflammation. Many antioxidants have been studied to relieve aches and pain in the joints and promote a healthy inflammation response.
Hyaluronic acid (aka hyaluronan or hyaluronate) is nature’s “moisture magnet”. It is the molecule responsible for attracting water into your tissues and providing the body with hydration and lubrication. HA is specific to the skin, joints and eyes. In the joints HA helps cartilage absorb impact and is the main constituent of joint fluid (synovial fluid). Taking an HA supplement feels like an oil change! Joints feel more flexible and less achy and creaky. Many people report pain is soothed in their joints as well.
Yes, the two nutrients are perfect compliments for each other. Collagen gives the body structure, hyaluronic gives the body hydration.
Hyaluronic acid works quickly, often within 1-3 days. The benefits may decline after a few weeks of discontinuing use.