Collagen - The Source, Amino Acid Composition, Health Benefits, and Side Effects

In this article, you will learn about the source of collagen, its amino acid composition, health benefits, and side effects. You will also learn how collagen is produced in the body. You will also learn what to look for in collagen supplements. Then, you will know which ones are best for your needs. If you are unsure, don't worry, you can always get advice from a professional.

Sources of collagen

Collagen can be obtained from many sources, including beef, fish, and egg whites. However, fish collagen is the best because the body absorbs it well. A good source of collagen is also found in oysters. These foods also contain vitamin C, an essential nutrient for the body.

Aside from eating whole foods, collagen can be found in supplements. However, collagen supplements do not have FDA approval and do not undergo the rigorous testing necessary for safety. For this reason, it is essential to consider the source of collagen when consuming a supplement.

Amino acid composition

Collagen is a significant structural protein with a sequence of amino acids. Typically, the sequence is Gly-Pro-X. The X residue may be any amino acid residue. Glycine comprises one-sixth of the collagen chain, while proline and hydroxyproline from the other two-thirds. Proline and hydroxyproline are uncommon amino acids that form kinks in polypeptide chains. These two amino acids are not found in other proteins and contribute to collagen structure.

Collagen is found in every connective tissue in the human body and is a conditionally essential amino acid. Collagen consists of triple helix polypeptide chains that are either identical or heterotrimeric. This polypeptide chain structure is the basis for the extraordinary stability of collagen proteins.

Health benefits

Collagen is a naturally-occurring protein in the human body that helps rebuild the skin's structure. It is essential for bone health, blood vessel strength, and muscle and skin elasticity. As we age, collagen levels in the body begin to diminish. Increasing our collagen intake can help reverse the effects of aging.

Collagen also promotes intestinal health by repairing damaged gut walls. It helps to restore the barrier function of the intestine and improve digestion in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. In addition to gut health, collagen helps maintain arterial health by promoting proper blood flow and preventing cardiovascular disease. This is a significant health benefit as heart disease is the number one killer in the country.

Side effects

Collagen is a natural protein, but it does have some side effects. It is not a complete protein, which means it lacks essential amino acids. Collagen is particularly low in tryptophan, which is an essential precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is associated with mood regulation, and deficiency has been linked to various psychological disorders.

Some people report experiencing digestive issues while taking collagen. This may include diarrhea, gas, constipation, and stomach cramping. This may be because collagen contains various amino acids, which are broken down differently in the stomach. As a result, the stomach may not be able to handle all amino acids in a balanced way.