Collagen
amino acid
ApprovedGeneral information about nutrients. No diagnosis, no medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before taking supplements.
Overview
Structural protein of skin and connective tissue.
Interactions
Vitamin C is an essential cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase, the enzymes that cross-link collagen fibers. Without vitamin C, collagen cannot form stable triple-helix structures.
Collagen is a structural protein of skin and cartilage, while hyaluronic acid is a water-binding component of the extracellular matrix.
Research status
Collagen production declines by about 1% per year after age 25.
Top 5 food sources
Expert opinions
Current Research
Randomized trials use 2.5 to 15 g hydrolyzed collagen daily. Common forms are type I/III peptides and undenatured type II (UC-II at 40 mg). Marine versus bovine sourcing shows similar bioavailability, and rigorous third-party testing avoids heavy metal contamination in fish-derived products. Pair with vitamin C for synthesis and avoid combining with high-temperature cooking that denatures peptides.
Recommended dose: 5–15 g
Source: Current Research
Dr. Strunz
Strunz recommends 10 to 15 g hydrolyzed collagen peptides daily. He insists on co-dosing with 500 mg vitamin C because ascorbate is the essential cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylases in collagen synthesis. Emphasizes that peptides (2 to 5 kDa) are absorbed intact. Considers collagen a daily requirement after age 40.
Recommended dose: 10–15 g (hydrolyzed)
Source: Dr. Strunz
Expert profiles summarise publicly available statements. The named people do not cooperate with Stackwell and have not authorised these summaries. Not medical advice.
Hydrolyzed peptides preferred for absorption.