Type II Collagen: What Is It?

Collagen is a protein composed of amino acids. It occurs naturally in the human body. In fact, it is the most abundant protein in our bodies, accounting for about one-third of the body’s total protein content. 

It is found in the skin, bones, cartilage, joint tissues, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is also present in many other parts of our body, such as blood vessels, the cornea, and teeth. The term collagen comes from the Greek word “kólla,” which means glue. It can be thought of the “glue” that holds all these elements together. 

However, our body’s natural production of collagen tends to decline with age, which may lead us to seek natural ways to boost its production.

There are more than twenty types of collagen. The four main ones are types I, II, III, and IV.

Each type of collagen has a specific structure and is found in particular organs. For example, type I collagen is involved in the formation of skin, tendons, bones, and the cornea, while type V, for instance, is found in the muscular system.

Type II collagen is one of the main types of collagen present in the human body. It is found primarily in the cartilage that covers the joints.

It is essential for maintaining joint function by providing a strong and elastic structure to the cartilage and promoting joint mobility.

See also: Everything You Need to kKnow About Collagen

Among the various types of collagen that exist, each has a specific molecular structure that gives it unique properties. And they aren’t all found in the same parts of the body. Let’s look at their main differences:

• Molecular Structure: Type I collagen has a dense fibrillar structure, which gives it high tensile strength. Type II collagen, on the other hand, has a less dense structure, better suited for cushioning and providing flexibility in the joints

• Location in the Body: Type I collagen is mainly found in the skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and teeth. Type II, on the other hand, is primarily found in the joints

Type II collagen is the main component of cartilage, a spongy tissue that covers bones and allows joints to move smoothly. It ensures their strength and flexibility. Osteoarthritis is characterized by cartilage degradation, which causes inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to a loss of mobility.

Type II collagen is the most effective at improving the symptoms of osteoarthritis, thanks to its direct impact on joint tissues. Type II collagen helps relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis in several ways:

• Stimulation of Cartilage Production: An increased intake of type II collagen stimulates the body’s natural synthesis of cartilage

• Reducing Inflammation: Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the joints caused by cartilage wear, thereby alleviating pain and improving people’s well-being.

• Improved Joint Lubrication: By promoting better joint lubrication, type II collagen allows for greater joint flexibility and mobility, thereby improving well-being

To help you choose the right collagen, check out our themed guides:

What Is Collagen and How to Choose It - Aroma-Zone

Which Collagen Should You Choose? The Different Types - Aroma-Zone

As just mentioned, it plays an essential role in joint mobility. Let’s now take a closer look at all the benefits it offers.

• Relief From Joint Pain: It stimulates cartilage production and reduces chronic inflammation, which helps alleviate joint pain

• Improved Joint Function: By enhancing joint flexibility and mobility, it makes daily movements easier. It can also help reduce morning stiffness and increase range of motion

• Slows the Progression of Osteoarthritis: By stimulating the production of chondrocytes, the cells responsible for cartilage synthesis, type II collagen can contribute to the repair and regeneration of damaged cartilage. This can slow the progression of osteoarthritis

All these benefits have a direct impact on the well-being and quality of life of people suffering from osteoarthritis.

Find more information about collagen and its benefits in our thematic guides: What Are the Benefits of Collagen? - Aroma-Zone

Type II collagen can be found in our diet or in certain products in the form of dietary supplements.

Dietary Collagen

Type II collagen is found primarily in animal cartilage, unlike type I collagen, which is more widely present in connective tissues. It is found in particular in:

• Chicken or Beef Cartilage: Consumed in the form of broth, for example

• Gelatin: Consists of a broth made from bones and other animal tissues

Certain foods can stimulate collagen production, even though they do not contain it directly, such as:

• Seaweed: Certain types of seaweed, such as Spirulina and Chlorella, can promote the body’s natural production of type II collagen

• Bone Broth: Thanks to its high content of amino acids and minerals, it helps promote the production of type II collagen

Expert Advice

To increase collagen absorption, it is recommended to ensure that:

• Consume Vitamin C, as it promotes collagen production. It is available as a dietary supplement or in foods, particularly citrus fruit, bell peppers, strawberries, and kiwis

• Cook foods at low temperatures to preserve collagen

• Combine collagen intake with foods rich in amino acids, such as legumes and nuts, which promote its synthesis

Since the collagen type II content in foods is relatively low, supplementation may be necessary to ensure an adequate intake to alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

What Are the Different Types of Collagen Supplements?

Type II collagen products can come in various forms in dietary supplements:

• Native Collagen: This form has not undergone any processing and retains its natural structure. It is generally more bioavailable than other forms, but may be more fragile and less soluble

• Hydrolysed Collagen: This form has been broken down into smaller peptides for optimal absorption. It may be less bioavailable than native collagen, but it is more soluble and stable

• Collagen Complexes: Collagen can be combined with other nutrients such as chondroitin, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, or Vitamin C to create a synergistic effect that enhances its benefits. These complexes may be beneficial for their action on joint tissues, helping to relieve pain and improve joint function.

These products are available in various dosage forms: softgels, capsules, tablets, powder, and liquid, none of which affect their efficacy. The recommended daily dose is 10 grams of type II collagen. It is recommended to continue supplementation for 12 weeks to achieve results. Dietary supplements should be stored in a cool place away from light.

Type II collagen supplementation is not recommended in the following cases:

• Allergy to fish and seafood

• Hypercalcemia (excessive calcium levels in the body)

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

• Children

• Kidney or liver failure

• Autoimmune diseases

• Recent surgery

Anyone undergoing medical treatment is advised to consult a healthcare professional before taking supplements. It is important to remember that dietary supplements should be part of a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.

For more information on precautions to take before starting a collagen regimen, you can consult our feature article The Dangers of Marine Collagen: Precautions and Side Effects - Aroma-Zone

After completing a master’s degree in management, Christine spent 20 years working for leading companies in the food supplement and natural cosmetics sectors. She then turned her passion for nature into a career. Today she practises naturopathy for people and animals, as well as sophrology, and mentors aspiring naturopaths and sophrologists at various schools.