Understanding Collagen: Its Function in the Body and Its Importance

1. What is collagen?
2. The different types of collagen (type I, II, III, etc.)
3. How collagen works in the body
4. Natural collagen production and why it decreases
5. Importance of collagen for skin, hair and nails
6. The role of collagen for joints and bones
7. Collagen and Muscle Strength: A Look at the Research
8. Does collagen affect intestinal health?
9. Collagen during pregnancy and breastfeeding
10. The connection between collagen and aging processes
11. Food sources of collagen: What to look out for
12. Collagen supplements: powder, capsules or liquid forms
13. How much collagen is useful per day?
14. When is the best time to take collagen?
15. Can collagen improve sleep and recovery?
16. Are there any possible side effects when taking collagen?
17. Fish collagen compared to beef or pork collagen
18. Choosing a high-quality collagen supplement
19. What makes Ballstad Collagen special?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for approximately 30% of total protein content. It acts as a structural building block and contributes to the stability and resilience of skin, joints, bones, tendons, and connective tissue. It is often described as a kind of "glue" that holds the body together.

As we age, the body's collagen production naturally declines—this typically begins around the age of 25. This process is one of the normal changes associated with aging and can affect, among other things, skin and tissue structure.

Many people are therefore interested in collagen supplements, for example in the form of hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides. These are popular because of their special processing.

Whether it's for skin, joints, or general well-being, anyone who studies collagen first gains a better understanding of its role in the body. Choosing a high-quality source is crucial to ensure a sensible addition to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

There are many different types of collagen in the human body, but the most common forms used in supplements are Type I, Type II, and Type III. Each type has a specific role, and understanding their differences can help you choose the right supplement.

Type I collagen is the most common form. It is found primarily in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue. Type I is also the main component in most marine collagen supplements.

Type II collagen is found in cartilage tissue and is important for the structure and resilience of joints. It is less commonly found in fish collagen and is more commonly used in products specifically designed for joints.

Type III collagen often occurs alongside type I collagen, for example, in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. It contributes to the tissue structure in these areas.

Other collagen types, such as type V and type X, perform specific functions, but together types I, II and III make up over 90% of the body's collagen.

Fish collagen, such as Ballstad Collagen, is naturally rich in type I collagen. Because of this property, it is particularly valued when it comes to high-quality collagen supplements.

Collagen is an important structural protein that contributes to the stability, elasticity, and strength of tissue. It is produced by cells called fibroblasts, which combine amino acids such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline into collagen fibers. These fibers form a network that provides structure to skin, joints, bones, tendons, and connective tissue.

In the skin, collagen plays a role in strength and structure. In joints and cartilage, it contributes to resilience, while in bone tissue and tendons, it supports stability. Collagen is also an important component in blood vessels and other tissue structures.

As we age, the body's own collagen production slows down. This is part of the normal aging process and can be further influenced by external factors such as UV radiation or an unbalanced diet.

Many people therefore turn to hydrolyzed collagen, such as fish collagen. Due to its special processing, it is in a form that is easily absorbed by the body. Such preparations are used as a supplement to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Collagen is produced in the body by cells called fibroblasts. These cells use amino acids such as glycine and proline, as well as vitamin C, to produce collagen fibers. These fibers give skin, bones, tendons, and connective tissue their structure and strength. The body's own collagen production is particularly active during a young age.

However, from around the age of 25, natural collagen production gradually declines – on average by about 1–1.5% per year. This process is a normal part of aging. Additionally, external influences such as UV radiation, smoking, stress, high sugar consumption, or an unbalanced diet can exacerbate this process.

Over time, these changes can affect the skin, joints, bones, and other tissue structures. Many people are therefore interested in collagen supplements—especially hydrolyzed fish collagen. Due to its special processing, it is in a form that is easily absorbed by the body. Such products are often chosen as a supplement to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

(Note: Vitamin C has been shown to contribute to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones, cartilage, teeth, gums, and blood vessels.)

Collagen is an essential structural protein for skin, hair, and nails. In the skin, it helps build connective tissue in the dermis, thus ensuring structure and strength. With age, natural collagen production declines—this is a normal part of the body's processes.

Collagen also plays a role in hair roots and nails as a component of tissue structure. Changes in the body's own production can therefore affect their stability.

In this context, many people are interested in collagen supplements, especially in the form of hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides. Due to their special processing, these are available in a form that is easily absorbed by the body. Such products are often chosen as a supplement to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Research is currently investigating the relationship between collagen intake and skin and tissue structure. In this context, fish collagen is particularly valued due to its high content of type I collagen—the type most commonly found in the human body.

Collagen is a key structural protein important for the stability of joints and bones. It is a key component of the cartilage tissue that covers joint surfaces, contributing to resilience and mobility. With age, the body's own collagen production declines—this is a normal part of the aging process and can affect tissue structure.

Collagen also plays a key role in bones, as it forms the basic framework into which minerals such as calcium are stored. Thus, it contributes to the strength of the bone matrix.

Many people are therefore interested in collagen supplements, such as hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides. Thanks to their special processing, these are available in a form that is easily absorbed. Such products are often chosen as a supplement to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Fish collagen is rich in type I collagen, the most abundant form in the human body. This aspect makes it attractive to many consumers who want to supplement their diet with a focus on joint and bone health.

Collagen is often associated with skin and joints, but it's also increasingly attracting research attention in relation to muscle structure. It contains high levels of glycine and proline—amino acids that are important components of muscle and connective tissue. Although collagen isn't a complete protein, many people use it as a supplement in combination with regular exercise.

A 2015 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition examined older men who took collagen peptides alongside resistance training. This study showed differences in muscle parameters compared to a control group. Such results suggest that the relationship between collagen intake and muscle structure represents an interesting area of ​​research.

Fish-based collagen, such as Ballstad Collagen, is characterized by its special processing and good bioavailability. Many users therefore value it as part of a balanced diet combined with exercise and a healthy lifestyle.

Collagen is a key structural protein that stabilizes skin, joints, and connective tissue. During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes that place greater strain on these tissues. Because collagen is rich in amino acids such as glycine and proline, many people value it as a supplemental protein source.

Even in the postpartum period, collagen remains an important component of the body, as skin, muscles, and connective tissue continue to be exposed to stress. Some women are interested in collagen supplements as a supplement to a balanced diet during this phase.

Fish collagen, such as hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides, is considered particularly well-absorbed and easily digestible. When integrated into a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle, it can provide an additional way to supply the body with protein building blocks during this special phase of life.

(Note: Dietary supplements should always be used after consulting a doctor during pregnancy and breastfeeding.)

Collagen plays a central role in the structure of skin, joints, and bones. Starting in the mid-20s, the body's own collagen production begins to gradually decline—a process that becomes more pronounced with age. This decline is a normal part of aging and can affect the condition of skin and connective tissue, as well as the stability of bones.

Additionally, external influences such as sun exposure, smoking, stress, or an unbalanced diet can impair collagen fibers. Over the years, this can contribute to changes in skin and tissue structure.

Many people are therefore interested in hydrolyzed collagen, for example, from marine sources such as Ballstad Collagen. Thanks to its special processing, it is available in a form that is easily absorbed. Such products are often chosen as a supplement to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Collagen is naturally present in various animal foods, particularly in connective tissue, bones, and skin. Among the richest sources is bone broth, which is obtained by slowly boiling bones and connective tissue. Chicken skin, fish skin, pork skin, and beef tendons also contain structural proteins similar to human collagen. Fish with skin also provides valuable omega-3 fatty acids.

In addition to foods that directly contain collagen, nutrients also play a role in the body's own collagen production. These include:

Vitamin C (e.g. in oranges, kiwis, strawberries) → contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones, cartilage, teeth, gums and blood vessels.

Zinc (e.g. in seafood, eggs, seeds) → contributes to normal protein synthesis.

Copper (e.g. in nuts, offal) → contributes to the maintenance of normal connective tissue.

Because collagen content in foods can vary greatly, many people opt for supplements—particularly hydrolyzed fish collagen. These can be used as part of a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Collagen supplements are available in various forms—powder, capsules, or liquid products. Which option is best often depends on personal preference and the desired level of comfort.

Powder is considered particularly versatile because it can be easily stirred into beverages like coffee or smoothies. Many users also appreciate its neutral taste and flexible dosage.

Capsules are convenient for on the go or while traveling. Since the amounts per capsule are usually smaller, taking several capsules per day may be necessary.

Liquid products are often offered as a ready-to-drink alternative. However, depending on the manufacturer, they contain additional ingredients such as flavorings or sweeteners that may not be to everyone's taste.

Ultimately, all forms have their advantages. Many people choose powder because it's easy to integrate into everyday life. The key is choosing a high-quality product that fits your diet and lifestyle.

The amounts of hydrolyzed collagen peptides used in scientific studies usually range between 2.5 and 10 grams per day. The individual amount chosen depends, among other things, on personal goals and diet.

Studies show that different dosages have been investigated in various fields of application – from lower amounts starting at around 2.5 g to higher amounts of around 10 g daily. Regular, long-term intake as part of a balanced diet is particularly important.

Fish collagen is considered easily digestible due to its special processing (hydrolysis). Many users choose this source because it is rich in type I collagen—the form most commonly found in the human body.

In addition, the intake of certain nutrients can be beneficial:

Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones, cartilage, teeth, gums and blood vessels (EFSA Health Claim).

There's no universally "perfect" time to take collagen supplements. More important than the time is regular use. Many people take collagen in the morning—perhaps in their coffee, smoothie, or with breakfast—while others prefer to incorporate it in the evening or around exercise. The key is to fit the intake into your daily routine and be consistent.

Regardless of the timing, combining it with vitamin C can be beneficial. Vitamin C has been shown to contribute to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones, cartilage, teeth, gums, and blood vessels (EFSA Health Claim).

Whether as powder or capsules, high-quality, hydrolyzed collagen supplements, especially from marine sources, can be used flexibly. The best time to take them is when they can be easily and permanently integrated into your individual diet and lifestyle.

Collagen contains various amino acids, including glycine, which researchers consider to be of interest in relation to sleep and recovery. Some studies are investigating whether certain amino acids can influence well-being in the evening.

Furthermore, due to its amino acid profile, collagen is valued by many people as a supplementary protein source, especially during athletic activities. In this context, it is often used as part of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Fish collagen in hydrolyzed form is considered particularly easy to digest. Some people prefer to incorporate it into their evening routine because it can be easily combined with other dietary habits.

Collagen supplements are generally considered well-tolerated when used in recommended amounts. Studies with hydrolyzed collagen peptides—regardless of whether they come from beef, pork, or fish—show that side effects are rare. Some people report mild digestive discomfort such as a feeling of fullness or bloating when they first start taking them, especially with higher amounts.

Allergic reactions are very rare, but can occur—especially when products contain additives or potential allergens. Therefore, it's advisable to pay attention to clean production, high-quality raw materials, and transparent origins. Ballstad Collagen, derived from salmon, is free of common allergens, synthetic fillers, and artificial additives—and is therefore valued by many users.

To avoid adverse reactions, dosage recommendations should always be followed. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have special dietary requirements should always seek medical advice before taking the medication.

With the wide range of products available, finding the right collagen supplement can be challenging. A key criterion is the origin of the collagen. Recommended are supplements containing hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are broken down into smaller units through a special processing process and can thus be easily absorbed by the body. Fish collagen is often valued for its purity and sustainable extraction.

Transparency regarding ingredients is equally important. A high-quality collagen product should be free of unnecessary fillers, artificial additives, and known allergens. Ideally, it is tested for residues such as heavy metals and manufactured under strict quality standards. Independent third-party testing (e.g., laboratory tests) can provide additional reassurance.

The type of collagen can also play a role in the choice: Types I and III are particularly common in the human body, while type II is found primarily in cartilage.

Furthermore, the amounts used in scientific studies can serve as a guide: Dosages between 2.5 and 10 grams of collagen peptides per day are usually used. It is important to take the supplement consistently every day, regardless of the chosen form (powder or capsules).

Ultimately, it's worth investing in brands that stand for clean raw materials, transparent manufacturing, and tested quality.

#4 Copybible by Anais Ballstad Salmon Collagen stands out from many other products on the market due to its purity, sustainable origin, and high quality standards. Obtained from salmon caught in clear ocean waters, Ballstad provides naturally-sourced collagen peptides rich in type I collagen—the most abundant form of collagen in the human body. Hydrolysis breaks down the collagen into small peptides that can be easily utilized by the body.

Ballstad's special commitment lies in its pure formulation: free from additives, artificial flavors, and known allergens—making it suitable for people with sensitive dietary needs. Each batch is carefully tested, including for heavy metals and environmental residues. This reflects the Norwegian origin in transparency, traceability, and a high level of quality awareness.

For easy integration into everyday life, Ballstad Salmon Collagen is available both as a readily soluble powder and in convenient sticks. This makes it easy to stir into beverages such as coffee, tea, smoothies, or water – without any off-flavor.

Ballstad Collagen combines sustainability, quality, and everyday practicality, making it a popular choice for anyone looking to consciously supplement their diet. Ballstad Salmon Collagen stands out from many other products on the market due to its purity, sustainable origin, and high quality standards. Obtained from salmon from clear ocean waters, Ballstad delivers collagen peptides of natural origin that are rich in type I collagen—the most abundant form of collagen in the human body. Hydrolysis breaks down the collagen into small peptides that can be easily utilized by the body.

Ballstad's special commitment lies in its pure formulation: free from additives, artificial flavors, and known allergens—making it suitable for people with sensitive dietary needs. Each batch is carefully tested, including for heavy metals and environmental residues. This reflects the Norwegian origin in transparency, traceability, and a high level of quality awareness.

For easy integration into everyday life, Ballstad Salmon Collagen is available both as a readily soluble powder and in convenient sticks. This makes it easy to stir into beverages such as coffee, tea, smoothies, or water – without any off-flavor.

Ballstad Collagen combines sustainability, quality, and everyday suitability, making it a popular choice for anyone who wants to consciously supplement their diet.