Navigating the world of health supplements can feel like a full-time job. And when it comes to collagen, the hype is everywhere. It's promoted by celebrities, featured in glossy magazines, and promises everything from youthful skin to pain-free joints.

But for the savvy consumer, especially those of us over 45 who are looking for real results, this hype naturally leads to some very sensible questions. Does it really work, or is it just clever marketing? Is there a difference between the various types? And what should you actually be looking for on the label?

As a nutritional expert, my job is to cut through the noise and give you clear, science-backed answers. So, let's put the marketing claims aside and have an honest conversation about collagen. This is your expert guide to making an informed choice.

The Big Question: Do Collagen Supplements Really Work?

Let's tackle the most important question head-on. The short answer is: Yes, high-quality collagen supplements absolutely can work to help delay the ageing process and support joint health, but only if they are the right kind.

The biggest piece of scepticism, and it's a very logical one, is the "digestion question." Many people ask, "Won't my stomach just break down the collagen like any other protein, such as a piece of chicken?"

It's a brilliant question, and the answer is what makes modern collagen supplements so effective. While your stomach does break down proteins, it doesn't obliterate them into nothing. It breaks them down into smaller chains of amino acids called peptides.

Scientific research has shown that specific collagen peptides are unique. They are able to survive the digestive process, get absorbed into the bloodstream intact, and travel throughout the body. Once they reach their target—be it the skin or the cartilage in your joints—they perform a dual role:

1. They provide the building blocks: They deliver the exact amino acids your body needs to build its own new collagen.
2. They act as signal messengers: This is the truly clever part. These peptides signal to your own cells (called fibroblasts in the skin and chondrocytes in cartilage) to start producing more collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.

So, you're not just "topping up" your collagen levels. You are actively stimulating your body's own natural production engine.

The Critical Factor: What Does "Hydrolysed Peptides" Actually Mean?

You will see the term "hydrolysed" or "peptides" on any reputable collagen product. This isn't marketing jargon; it is the single most important factor for effectiveness.

A natural collagen molecule is enormous—a triple-helix structure that is far too large for your body to absorb. "Hydrolysing" is a natural enzyme process that acts like a pair of molecular scissors. It carefully snips these massive molecules down into the small, light, and easily absorbable peptides we just discussed.

Think of it this way: A whole collagen molecule is like a long, tangled rope. Hydrolysing it is like cutting that rope into perfectly sized, usable pieces of string that your body can easily work with.

The bottom line: If a collagen supplement is not hydrolysed into peptides, its ability to be absorbed and used by your body is extremely limited.

The Great Debate: Marine vs. Bovine Collagen – Which is Better?

This is the second most common question. Both marine (from fish) and bovine (from cows) collagen can be effective, but they have key differences that make one more suitable for certain goals.

• Bovine Collagen: Sourced from cows, this type is rich in both Type 1 and Type 3 collagen. Type 3 is important for gut health and organs, making bovine a good choice for general, all-round wellness.
• Marine Collagen: Sourced from fish skin and scales, this type mainly contains Type 1 collagen. This is significant because Type 1 is, by far, the most abundant type of collagen in our own skin, bones, and connective tissues. Furthermore, marine collagen peptides are known to have a smaller particle size, which many studies suggest leads to superior bioavailability and absorption—up to 1.5 times more efficient, according to some research.

The Verdict: While both are good, if your primary goals are related to improving skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness, or supporting your joints and bones—the key concerns of ageing—then Marine Collagen is generally considered the superior choice due to its targeted Type 1 profile and as the research suggests, enhanced bioavailability.

Your Expert Checklist for Choosing a Collagen Supplement

To cut through the confusion, here is a simple checklist. A truly "Gold Standard" collagen supplement, such as Woods Health Marine Collagen Gold Standard, should tick every one of these boxes:

• [✓] It must be Hydrolysed into Peptides: This is non-negotiable for absorption.
• [✓] Choose Marine Collagen for Skin & Joints: For targeted anti-ageing benefits, this is the superior source.
• [✓] Check the Dose: Look for one that provides at least 5,000mg (5g) per day.
• [✓] It Must Contain Vitamin C: Your body cannot produce collagen without it. If it's not in the formula, you're not getting the full benefit.
• [✓] Look for a Complete Complex: The best formulas, like the Gold Standard, will also include synergistic nutrients like Hyaluronic Acid (for hydration) and Zinc to support the entire rebuilding process.

By arming yourself with this knowledge, you can move past the marketing hype and make a confident, informed decision. Investing in a high-quality, scientifically formulated collagen complex is one of the most effective ways to nourish your body from the inside out, supporting not just your skin health, but more importantly, how you feel and move.

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It is advisable to consult your GP before taking these supplements, especially if you have an allergy to seafood, a new or existing medical condition, or are taking medication.

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References

1. León-López, A., et al. (2019). Hydrolyzed Collagen—Sources and Applications. Molecules, 24(22), 4031. (This review provides an excellent scientific overview of the hydrolysis process and sources). Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6891674/
2. Bolke, L., et al. (2019). A Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Roughness, and Density: Results of a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blind Study. Nutrients, 11(10), 2494. Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835901/
3. Al-Atif, H. (2022). Collagen Supplements for Aging and Wrinkles: A Paradigm of Dermal Revitalization. Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, 12(1), e2022018. (This paper discusses the mechanism of how peptides stimulate fibroblasts). Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8824545/
4. DePhillipo, N. N., et al. (2018). Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplementation on Collagen Synthesis and Oxidative Stress After Musculoskeletal Injuries: A Systematic Review. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, 6(10). Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6204628/

That familiar stiffness when you first get out of bed in the morning. A nagging twinge in the knees after an afternoon spent in the garden. The feeling that a long, enjoyable walk with the dog might result in an evening of aches. For many of us navigating life over 45, these little discomforts can become an unwelcome, but seemingly inevitable, part of daily life.

We often sigh and put it down to "just getting older." But as a nutritional expert, I want to challenge that notion. While we can't turn back the clock, we can do something to help our joints and increase our mobility.

This discomfort can be a sign of a structural issue. It may be that the body's natural "scaffolding and cushioning" is wearing thin. The good news is that modern nutritional science has shown us that we can proactively provide our bodies with the raw materials needed to rebuild and support parts of this essential framework.

What is one of the most important components of these raw materials? Collagen. In this deep dive, we'll explore exactly how a high-quality marine collagen supplement can help to soothe your joints, improve your mobility, and may even put that youthful spring back in your step.

Understanding Your Joints: A Look at the "Cushioning"

To understand the solution, we first need to appreciate the marvel of engineering that is our joints. In between the bones in your knees, hips, and hands is a firm, rubbery, and incredibly smooth substance called cartilage.

Think of your cartilage as the perfect shock absorber. Its job is to cushion the bones during movement, allowing them to glide over each other without friction or pain. And what is this miraculous cushioning made of? Primarily, it's a dense matrix of collagen fibres and water.

Herein lies the challenge. From our late 20s onwards, our body's ability to produce high-quality collagen begins to decline. By the time we are in our 50s and 60s, this production has slowed significantly. Decades of movement and "wear and tear" combined with a reduced ability to repair means this vital cartilage can start to thin, weaken, and lose its cushioning effect. The result is the stiffness, aches, and discomfort we know all too well.

The Solution: How Hydrolysed Marine Collagen Peptides Rebuild from Within

This is where targeted nutritional intervention becomes a game-changer. By supplementing with the right kind of collagen, we can provide our body with the precise building blocks it needs to support cartilage repair.

But not all collagen is created equal. For this to work, you need Hydrolysed Marine Collagen Peptides. Let's break that down:

• Marine: This means the collagen is sourced from fish. Marine collagen is predominantly Type 1 collagen, the most abundant type in our own bodies, including in our connective tissues. Its molecules are also typically smaller than those from bovine (cow) sources, which may lead to superior absorption.
• Hydrolysed Peptides: This is the most critical part. "Hydrolysed" means the large collagen molecules have been broken down using a natural enzyme process into small, easily absorbable chains of amino acids called peptides.

A common and very valid question is, "Doesn't the collagen just get digested like any other protein?" The answer is what makes this science so exciting. Research has shown that specific collagen peptides are absorbed intact from the gut into the bloodstream. They then travel throughout the body and can then accumulate in cartilage. Here, they act as powerful signalling molecules, stimulating our own cartilage cells (called chondrocytes) to wake up and produce more of our body's own collagen.

So, you're not just patching the gaps. You are actively supporting your body in its own natural repair and maintenance processes.

The scientific evidence for this is compelling. A major 2019 meta-analysis of multiple randomised controlled trials concluded that collagen supplementation demonstrates a potential to improve osteoarthritis symptoms, showing improvements in pain and stiffness scores.

The Secret Weapon for Smooth Movement: Sodium Hyaluronate

Supporting the cartilage structure is step one. But for more comfortable movement, you also need proper lubrication. Think of it like the oil in a car's engine.

This is where Sodium Hyaluronate (SH) comes in. Sodium Hyaluronate is a natural "super-hydrator," a gel-like molecule with an incredible ability to hold onto water. It is a major component of the synovial fluid that bathes and lubricates our joints.As we age, levels of SH in our synovial fluid also decline, leading to less lubrication and more friction. By including Sodium Hyaluronate in a comprehensive formula like the Woods Health Marine Collagen - Gold Standard, you are addressing both sides of the joint health equation:

• Collagen works to rebuild and maintain the cartilage structure (the "brake pads").
• Sodium Hyaluronate works to improve the lubrication and cushioning (the "oil").

Together, they create a synergistic duo for supporting smoother, more comfortable mobility.

The Support Team: Why a Complete Complex is a Smarter Choice

A truly "Gold Standard" approach understands that the star players need a dedicated support team to perform at their best. Providing your body with collagen and SH is fantastic, but for them to be used more effectively, other key nutrients are necessary.

This is why a complete complex is a far smarter investment for your long-term joint health:

• Vitamin C (The Director): This is an essential partner. Your body can’t synthesise an effective amount of collagen without Vitamin C. It's the essential cofactor that enables the amino acids from the peptides to be woven into strong, stable collagen fibres. Taking collagen without Vitamin C is like having a pile of bricks but no cement.
• Zinc & Vitamin E (The Protectors): These are powerful antioxidants. They work to protect your existing cartilage and the new collagen you are building from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. They are the security team for your joints.

Your Long-Term Strategy for an Active Future

It's important to approach collagen supplementation with the right mindset. This is not a painkiller that provides immediate, temporary relief. This is a nutritional strategy for rebuilding and nourishing your body from the inside out.

The benefits are cumulative and are built on consistency. Think of it as a long-term investment in your future self. While some people may notice improvements in a few months, for joint health, the most significant results are often seen with dedicated, daily use over a longer period.

Taking this Gold Standard Collagen tablet can be a seamless part of your daily routine. This simple daily act is a powerful statement that you are choosing to be proactive about your health. You are giving your body the tools it needs to fight back against stiffness and discomfort, allowing you to continue enjoying the activities you love—be it gardening, hiking, dancing, or simply playing with your grandchildren—with greater ease and comfort for years to come.

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Always consult with a GP before starting any new supplement, especially if you have an allergy to seafood, a new or existing medical condition, or are taking medication.

References

1. García-Coronado, J. M., et al. (2019). Effect of collagen supplementation on osteoarthritis symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. International Orthopaedics, 43(3), 531–538. Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00264-018-4211-5
2. Oe, M., et al. (2016). Oral hyaluronan relieves knee pain: a review. Nutrition Journal, 15, 11. Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4729158/
3. DePhillipo, N. N., et al. (2018). Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplementation on Collagen Synthesis and Oxidative Stress After Musculoskeletal Injuries: A Systematic Review. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, 6(10). Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30386805/
4. Khatri, M., et al. (2021). The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review. Amino Acids, 53(10), 1493–1506. Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00726-021-03072-x
5. Corvelli, M. et al (2015). Biodynamic performance of hyaluronic acid versus synovial fluid of the knee in osteoarthritis. Methods,84 (90-98). Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1046202315001255

Waking up with stiff fingers, feeling a twinge in your knees when you take the stairs, or finding that a walk in the park leaves your hips aching. For millions of people, joint pain isn't just an occasional nuisance; it's a constant, unwelcome companion that can limit mobility and diminish the joy of daily life.

If you're navigating the challenges of arthritis or persistent joint stiffness, you may feel like your only options are strong painkillers. But what if there was a way to help manage the root cause of your discomfort naturally?

While there is no magic cure, a wealth of scientific evidence points to a powerful, natural option that has been used for centuries and is now being backed by modern scientific research. It’s time to look at one of the main underlying causes of your pain—chronic inflammation—and introduce the golden spice that may help alleviate some of that inflammation.

Understanding the Enemy: The Role of Chronic Inflammation

To effectively manage joint pain, we first need to understand its primary driver. In many cases, the culprit is chronic inflammation.

Inflammation itself isn't always bad. When you sprain your ankle, acute inflammation is your body's brilliant first-response team. It sends blood and immune cells to the area to protect it and begin the healing process, causing temporary swelling, redness, and pain.

The problem begins when this inflammatory response doesn't switch off. Chronic inflammation is like a slow-burning fire smouldering silently within your body. In conditions like osteoarthritis, this persistent inflammation gradually wears away the protective cartilage in your joints, leading to bone rubbing against bone. The result is the pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility that you know all too well.

Therefore, the key to finding relief isn't just masking the pain; it's about helping to calm this underlying inflammatory fire.

Nature's Golden aid to help reduce inflammation: Introducing Turmeric and Curcumin

For centuries, traditional medicine systems have revered a vibrant golden spice for its powerful healing properties: turmeric. But it's only in recent decades that modern science has pinpointed exactly what makes it so effective.

The secret lies within a group of active compounds called curcuminoids, the most important of which is curcumin. Curcumin is the true hero. It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory compound that works by blocking the specific molecules and pathways that fuel chronic inflammation in the body (such as the master inflammatory switch, NF-κB).

By intervening at this molecular level, curcumin can help to dial down the inflammatory processes that cause so much pain and damage in your joints.

The Two Keys to Unlocking Turmeric's Power: Potency and Absorption

Before you start piling turmeric spice onto your food, there are two critical facts you need to know. The effectiveness of curcumin hinges entirely on overcoming two major challenges: getting enough of it, and making sure your body can actually use it.

1. The Potency Problem: Why You Need a Concentrated Extract

The turmeric root you buy at the supermarket contains a surprisingly small amount of curcumin—only about 2-5% by weight. To get a therapeutic dose capable of impacting joint inflammation, you would have to consume an enormous and impractical amount of the spice every single day.This is why high-quality supplements don't use simple turmeric powder. They use a concentrated extract. A product like Woods Health Turmeric and Black Pepper 10,000mg uses a potent extract that provides the therapeutic equivalent of 10,000mg of raw turmeric root in a single, convenient capsule. This high potency is essential to deliver the level of curcumin shown to be effective in clinical studies.

2. The Absorption Problem: The Secret of Black Pepper

Here is the second, equally important piece of the puzzle. On its own, curcumin is notoriously difficult for the body to absorb. It's metabolised and cleared by your liver so quickly that very little of it actually makes it into your bloodstream to reach your joints.

This is where a simple kitchen spice provides an ingenious solution. Black pepper contains an active compound called piperine. Piperine acts as a natural bioavailability enhancer. It works by inhibiting the metabolic process in the liver, allowing curcumin to bypass this rapid breakdown.The results are staggering. A landmark study published in the journal Planta Medica found that when taken with piperine, the absorption of curcumin was increased by up to 2,000%. The takeaway is clear: a truly effective turmeric supplement must combine a high-potency curcumin extract with black pepper to ensure you are actually absorbing and benefiting from this incredible compound.

The Science Speaks: What Clinical Trials Say About Turmeric for Joints

You don't have to take our word for it. A growing body of high-quality scientific research confirms the benefits of curcumin for reducing inflammation.

A major systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Medicinal Food looked at the results of numerous randomized clinical trials. The conclusion was clear: taking a turmeric extract for 8-12 weeks was effective in alleviating inflammation.

Specifically, patients reported reductions in pain and stiffness and improvements in physical function. Remarkably, the study noted that curcumin's effects were comparable to common anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen.

Your Holistic option for inflammation reduction

Helping to alleviate joint pain involves a multi-faceted approach. Integrating a science-backed supplement is a cornerstone of this plan. A formula like Woods Health Turmeric 10,000mg + Black Pepper is the ideal choice because it ticks all the boxes:

• High Potency: Delivers a clinically relevant dose of curcuminoids.
• Maximum Absorption: Enhanced with black pepper to ensure your body can actually use it.
• Convenience: All the benefits packed into one easy-to-swallow capsule.

Combine this powerful supplement with other joint-friendly lifestyle habits for the best results:

• Gentle Movement: Activities like swimming, walking, and cycling keep joints lubricated without high impact.
• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Focus on foods rich in omega-3s (like oily fish), colourful fruits, and leafy green vegetables.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess body weight significantly lessens the load and stress on your knees, hips, and back.

Take the Next Step in your health plan

By understanding that chronic inflammation is the enemy, you can arm yourself with a powerful natural aid. By choosing a smart, high-potency, and highly absorbable curcumin supplement, you are giving your body the tools it needs to help calm the fire of inflammation from within. Thus, hopefully soothing your joints, reducing stiffness, and rediscovering the freedom of more comfortable movement.

It’s important to speak with your GP about any new symptoms and to ensure that any supplements you plan to take won’t interfere with your prescribed medication

References

1. Daily, J. W., Yang, M., & Park, S. (2016). Efficacy of Turmeric Extracts and Curcumin for Alleviating the Symptoms of Joint Arthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Journal of Medicinal Food, 19(8), 717–729. Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5003001/
2. Shoba, G., Joy, D., Joseph, T., Majeed, M., Rajendran, R., & Srinivas, P. S. (1998). Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Medica, 64(4), 353–356. Link: https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-2006-962415
3. Hewlings, S. J., & Kalman, D. S. (2017). Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health. Foods, 6(10), 92. Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/

As we get older, we tend to stop being as active. This may be for a number of reasons but the most popular one is likely to be that our joints become ‘creaky’ and being active just isn’t fun anymore. It becomes an effort, and in some cases, a very painful effort.

However, this doesn’t have to be the case as our 70-year-old surfer can prove! Eric is a true pioneer of living and maintaining an active lifestyle no matter how old you are and having been surfing for well over 50 years he only retired from competing in recent years. As well as his love of surfing he can also be found skiing, snowboarding, and climbing the odd mountain or two.

So, what keeps Eric riding the waves? This constant crusade for such an active lifestyle will put a strain on your joints and bones and Eric is the first to admit that he has become “creaky” over the last 10 years. However, stopping is not an option for a chap such as Eric and he is determined to carry on with the active lifestyle he so enjoys. One of the key factors for Eric was his discovery of Glucosamine and other supplements, such as turmeric to keep him active and able to continue all the sports he loves.  He now refers to Glucosamine as his WD-40 for joints, he acknowledges that without it, he would have had to retire from the sports he loves so much.

Glucosamine is probably one of the most widely taken supplements in the UK and is very common with folks who enjoy an active lifestyle. Glucosamine naturally occurs in the body where it is found in particularly high amounts in joint tissue. However, most foods contain very little Glucosamine so it's vital to top up your levels in your body by other methods, especially if you want to keep active.

In addition to glucosamine, Turmeric is also a great supplement to keep your joints as healthy as possible and to help reduce any aches and pains that may come with aging. With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric has proven to be a great ally in the fight against creaky and painful joints.

Joint pain affects many of us, especially as we age. While the condition can range from a little irritating to completely debilitating, there are many things we can do ourselves to help improve and ease the pain as part of our daily lives.

Diet

We all know that a good diet is important for our overall wellbeing, from eating the right foods for the nutrients our bodies need, to helping maintain a healthy weight. A key study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found that a weight loss of only one pound resulted in four pounds of pressure being removed from the knees.

Inflammation if often a key element of joint pain so including foods that have anti-inflammatory effects can help decreased joint pain and stiffness. These include: -

• Fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel & sardines.
• Curry! Most curries contain three important anti-inflammatory ingredients, garlic, ginger and turmeric. See our curry recipe on our Facebook page.
• Greens such as broccoli and spinach have a vast variety of goodness, including anti-inflammatory properties.
• Berries contain a ton of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants but these bundles of yumminess also help reduce inflammation in the body.

Exercise

Low impact exercise is very good way to help keep joints stay flexible and improve muscle strength around the joint helping to support it.  The great thing is that most low impact exercises can be done without needing to spend money on gym memberships or equipment.

• Stretching
• Yoga, Pilates & Tai Chi
• Low impact cardio: Water aerobics, swimming & walking

Supplements

Turmeric contains large amounts of an active compound named curcumin (main chemical in turmeric, related to ginger) that is said to have anti-inflammatory effects.

Vitamin D is a key vitamin for bone and muscle function that is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties helping relieve joint pain.

Omega-3 Fish Oils  may have beneficial properties which eases inflammation. These supplements can be a great way to top up your Omega-3 especially if you struggle to eat enough oily fish.

Glucosamine & Chondroitin are both naturally produced in the body, with Glucosamine being one of building blocks of cartilage and Chondroitin is believed to help bring water and nutrients into the cartilage, helping to keep it spongy and healthy.

Glucosamine products are taken widely and are in fact the most popular supplement taken for joint health in the UK.

Many people prefer to try a natural alternative ­especially for treating arthritis. Where NSAIDs can only damp down inflammation and pain, food supplements such as glucosamine have the potential to halt the degenerative effects of conditions such as osteoarthritis. It does this by stimulating the formation of proteoglycans (protein molecules) important for strengthening cartilage so it can resist compressive forces; it is also thought to have an anti-inflammatory action. A pivotal trial published in the Lancet showed that taking 1,500mg of glucosamine sulphate per day produced significant improvements in pain and disability, with no significant loss of joint space seen over the three year trial period. In contrast, those taking placebo developed worsening symptoms with increased narrowing of the knee joint space . Subsequently a systematic review of 20 randomised controlled trials found that, in people with osteoarthritis, glucosamine was more effective at relieving pain (28% improvement) than placebo.

Products are certainly plentiful but how do you know which one is right for you?

Glucosamine is a product derived from shellfish and used for the repair of damaged joint tissue and reduce the pain associated with it.Glucosamine is unstable by itself and so needs to be partnered with another compound to stabilize it. This is the reason for the use of sulphate and hydrochloride ions; they serve as carrier molecules for the glucosamine to be absorbed. There is some debate over which ‘carrier’ system provides the superior absorption rate. The truth is, clinical evidence suggests that so long as the amount of glucosamine is the same, both forms will deliver the same amount. With the Hydrochloride (HCL) carrier system, less HCL is needed to ‘carry’ the glucosamine than the sulphate version . HCL is slightly cheaper too, making it the carrier ion of choice for some food supplement manufacturers.

However, it is the Glucosamine sulphate version that has stolen the clinical limelight. It is the more widely tested form and comprehensive clinical trials have shown it to be a highly effective alternative to non steroidal anti inflammatories (NSAIDS) for joint pain and inflammation. Experts also rightly question the therapeutic role of sulphate within a glucosamine sulphate product. Natural forms of sulphate are used by the body for the synthesis of proteins and the regulation of inflammation . Therefore some experts might argue that although it works as a wonderful carrier for glucosamine, the presence of sulphate may in fact enhance the regeneration of joint tissue and reduce inflammation as well. If you chose a Glucosamine Sulphate product ensure it is no less that 20% 2KCL. Anything more than this will dilute the amount of glucosamine in the product.

References:
Reginster jy et al. 2001. long-term effects of glucosamine sulphate on osteoarthritis progression: a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial. lancet 357(9252):251-6
Towheed te et al. 2005 glucosamine therapy for treating osteoarthritis. cochrane database syst rev. (2):cd002946.

Your body needs collagen. It makes the connective tissue in our skin, keeping you looking youthful; the ligaments, cartilage and muscles, keeping us agile; and the bones and teeth giving us structure. In essence it works like glue, supporting, shaping and bulking. Your body is constantly manufacturing collagen to maintain and repair connective tissues lots to daily wear and tear.

Its own structure is similar to that of three thick chains twisted around each-other into a triple helix. This helix is made up of other nutrients called amino acids (found in protein foods). You may not know this but there are in fact over fourteen types of collagen but the most common ones are those who have probably heard of already:

• Type 1: This type of collagen makes up the fibres in the connective tissues of the skin, bone, teeth, tendons, ligaments.
• Type 2: Type 2 collagen forms the fibres found in cartilage.
• Type 3: This form also makes up the connective tissue but this time to give strength and structure to organs such as heart, liver and the kidneys.
• Type 4: Collagen type 4 forms the sheets that lie between the layers of blood vessels, muscle and the eyes.

As mentioned previously, your system can produce its own supply of collagen. However, as you age our production decreases beyond the age of 30, by 1.5% in fact. To add to this, exposure to environmental damage such as sunbathing, pollution and poor diet increase free radical damage and raises your body’s requirement for collagen. Eating a diet that includes daily amounts of good quality protein such as fish, eggs, pulses and poultry can supply the amino acids needed to make it but often demand can still outweigh supply. Supplementing the diet with Collagen can be an effective way to bridge this gap if you feel you need extra support. Research has shown that taking it in supplement form is well tolerate and digested as well as supporting some health conditions.

Vitamin C, lysine, Vitamin B3, iron and copper are key nutrients required for the production of collagen. Vitamin C combines with the amino acids to form pro-collagen which then goes on to form collagen in tissues around the body. Without sufficient Vitamin C production of collagen is reduced and a catalogue of health conditions can begin. So where do you benefit the most from Collagen?

The Joints and Bones
According to statistics over six million people suffer from osteoarthritis and half a million suffer from rheumatoid arthritis in the UK. Osteoarthritis is where the wear and tear of every day living has worn away the cartilage in the joints, leaving bone grinding against bone. This causes great pain, inflammation and most commonly restricted movement. Rheumatoid arthritis on the other hand is a chronic inflammatory disorder typically affecting the small joints in the hand and feet. Unlike the wear and tear in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.

Studies have shown that collagen is essential for optimum joint health. It keeps bones strong and cushions the ends of the joint to prevent bone rubbing against bone. Research has shown that collagen taken orally accumulates in cartilage, assisting in stability, repair and regeneration of vital tissue around the joints. In essence your joints need it to work smoothly and for you to feel comfortable and mobile.

Skin

The top layer of the skin, the epidermis, is the first line of protection against the environment. Collagen is found in the thickest layer of the skin below this known as the dermis. The dermis regulated temperature and supplies the epidermis with nutrients and a healthy blood supply. Collagen provides this layer with the strength and resilience it needs to support the epidermis and its protective effects against damage. It aids repair if damage occurs and supports elasticity. It is this layer that gives you that ‘youthful’ appearance of healthy skin.

With a healthy supply of collagen the skin remain solid and intact but with age, free radical damage from a poor diet or sun exposure, the skin begins to lose its strength and stability. Where young skin quickly heals, older skin (above 30 !) is not as resilient and can appear wrinkled or saggy. The collagen that once plumped up the skin is in low supply and lines can form. Supporting the supply can encourage the skins flexibility, smooth appearance and even moisturise dry skin.