The body naturally produces collagen by breaking down dietary protein into amino acids, which are then reassembled into collagen fibres. There are at least 28 different types of collagen, but around 80-90% of the collagen in the body consists of types 1, 2, and 3. Type 1 is found in skin, bones, and tendons, type 2 in cartilage, and type 3 in reticular fibres, often alongside type 1.
However, collagen production decreases with age, leading to signs of aging such as wrinkles, joint pain, and weaker bones.
Although challenging, it is possible to get enough collagen through food. Collagen is found only in animal sources like cartilage, bone marrow, tendons, and gristle, which aren’t the most appetising foods for many.
It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if collagen supplementation is appropriate for your specific needs.