When Should I Take Collagen: Morning or Night?

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the body. It is the structural protein that forms the connective tissue throughout our body, from the skin to bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Collagen makes up a whopping 80 percent of our skin and works with another protein called elastin that keeps our skin elastic. Collagen is the body's most abundant protein that helps provide structure to the hair, skin, nails, bones, ligaments and tendons. It’s made up of amino acids such as glycine, proline, hydroxyproline and arginine. These components help keep our body's connective tissue, skin, hair and nails working. In essence, collagen is the glue that holds everything together. There are 16 types of collagen. However, the most commonly researched types of collagen include types I, II and III. Types I and III collagen enhance the production of amino acids in the body, particularly glycine. Glycine is the amino acid that is responsible for building muscle and burning fat. Hence, collagen is promoted for weight loss benefits as well.

Type I collagen:

• This collagen is usually considered best for the skin. It is the most prevalent type of collagen in the body.
• It preserves the levels of collagen in the skin, hair or nails.
• Like all types of collagen, levels of type I collagen begin to reduce after the age of about 25 years.
• Because it is so prevalent in the connective tissues, we often see the decrease in type I collagen resulting in characteristics such as sagging skin, fine lines and brittle nails, as well as thinning hair.
• However, type I collagen isn’t just a beauty-related substance. It’s also a major component of the tendons, organs and bones. This makes it a vital component of any diet or wellness routine. Collagen peptides are primarily composed of type I collagen.

Type II collagen:

• Another common type of collagen found in supplements is type II collagen.
• Although somewhat less prevalent in the body than type I, type II collagen is extremely important.
• It is the main component of the cartilage and is extremely healthy for the skeletal system.
• Active people who need to rely on their joints may also benefit from adding type II collagen to their diet. Cartilage collagen is composed of type II collagen.

Type III collagen:

• It is generally found in the reticular fiber such as in the bone marrow.
• It is found alongside type I collagen in the body.
• Peptides and marine collagen are rich in types I and III collagen.

As described above, types I and III collagen are the most commonly occurring collagen types within our bodies. These two types of collagen promote hair, skin, nail and bone health. Types I and III collagen increase elasticity of the skin, thus minimizing wrinkles and allowing youthful glow to your face.