Collagen: Nature's miracle or hidden risk?

The world of dietary supplements is vast, and the collagenwith its many benefits, has recently become one of the stars in this category. But behind these benefits, are there any concerns associated with its consumption? Let's delve into the heart of this protein and discover all its secrets.

What is collagen?

Considered the queen protein of our organism, collagen holds the impressive title of most present protein, constituting over 25% of all our proteins. Essentially located in the extracellular matrix, it is found in various tissues such as skin, bones, tendons and much more.

The different faces of collagen

There are more than 20 different types of collagen, but three types predominate:

• Type I Mainly present in skin, tendons and bones.
• Type II The champion of articular cartilage.
• Type III Frequently found in muscles and blood vessels.

Age and collagen: a complex relationship

As the years go by, the body reduces its natural production of collagen. The signs soon appear: wrinkles, sagging skin, joint pain. In this battle against time, could collagen supplementation be our ally? My guide to a pro-collagen nutrition.

Precautions and contraindications

Hypercalcemia

If you suffer from hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by excess calcium in the blood, you should avoid collagen, as it can stimulate calcium production.

Allergies

Collagen can be of marine or bovine origin. People allergic to seafood or animal proteins should exercise caution. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, rash, nausea, vomiting and respiratory problems.

Renal insufficiency

If you suffer from kidney failure, it's essential to consult a doctor before starting any collagen supplementation.

Quality first: marine collagen vs. bovine collagen

The choice of collagen is not insignificant:

• Marine collagen The world's waters can be polluted, and some fish are more contaminated than others. Caution is therefore advised to avoid heavy metals.
• Bovine collagen Origin and traceability are crucial. Past events, such as the mad cow epidemic, underline the importance of ensuring the quality of bovine collagen consumed.

When selecting a collagen supplement, the most important factor is its quality and origin. For collagen derived from the sea, it is essential to avoid those containing high concentrations of heavy metals.

A study revealed that, among 28 dietary supplements analyzed in the USA, a significant proportion contained metals such as arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium. These metals, even in small quantities, are harmful to our organs. Fish, in particular, can accumulate these substances as a result of water pollution. That's why it's so important to opt for first-rate marine collagen, derived from wild or organically farmed fish and validated for purity in the laboratory. In France, certain fish such as bluefin tuna, swordfish and farmed salmon are particularly affected by this contamination. It is therefore advisable to choose collagen from less exposed fish.

When it comes to bovine collagen, it's vital to ensure that it comes from sources that comply with standards, especially in Europe where certain breeding methods have been banned following health crises such as mad cow disease.

During pregnancy and breast-feeding:
There is still a lack of solid data on collagen intake during these crucial phases. So I don't recommend it during pregnancy.

Although marine and bovine collagen offer many health and aesthetic benefits, it's vital to be well-informed and take a cautious approach before consuming them.