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Collagen 101

 What Is Collagen?

 

Collagen is a protein found throughout the human body. It is the most abundant protein in our system. These fibrous proteins provide support and strength to so many different parts of our human anatomy. Collagen is a major component of our bones, connective tissues, blood vessels, hair, skin, and even our fingernails. 

The protein functions much like the frame of a house. Without the frame, your house will tumble down. The same goes for collagen loss. When we age, we lose collagen, leading to the early signs of aging, joint pain, and more. That's why collagen supplementation is so important.

Collagen membranes anchor cells to each other (like cement and glue). Not only this but, collagen forms sturdy fibril strands that work as supporting structures for the skin, bones, and connective tissues, among others.

 

Learn more about liquid collagen drinks & its benefits.

 

Where Is Collagen Found In the Body?

 

Where is collagen found in the body

 

There are 28 Types of Collagen 

 

Type I Collagen is the most abundant in our body (over 90%) and stronger than steel by weight. It is found in human skin, hair, nails, muscle, joints, and organs.

Type II Collagen makes up movable joints.

Type III (the so-called 'baby collagen') is the second most abundant collagen in human tissue.

Type IV forms basal lamina, the epithelium-secreted layer of the basement membrane.

Type V is present in the cell surfaces, hair, and placenta.

 

Here are some of the best skin care products & oral collagen supplements.

 

Collagen Molecules:  A Look Inside

 

 

 

Collagen Fiber

 

Major Amino Acids That Make Up Collagen 

 

Collagen Molecule Helix Amino Acid

 

While we’re born with an abundance of collagen in our skin, collagen production slows in our mid-to-late 20s and continues to decrease dramatically after the age of 30. From there, collagen synthesis begins to drop by 1 to 2% each year.

When collagen starts to decline with age or due to excessive exposure to UV rays, pollution, or cigarette smoke, our skin’s structural integrity is compromised. This is why we decided to find the best resources as a premium skincare company.

 

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Your Skin and Collagen

Covering the basics of why collagen is important for your skin

 

Your Skin Is Made Up of Three Layers...

 

The epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone.

The dermis (beneath the epidermis), contains collagen, hyaluronic acid (HA), elastin fibers, tough connective tissue, hair follicles, and sweat glands.

The deeper subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis) is made of fat and connective tissue.

 

define collagen

 

What Type of Collagen Is In the Dermis? 

 

Our dermis is made up of more than 80% Type I Collagen and 15% Type III Collagen, along with Elastin and HA, as well as specialized cells called 'Fibroblasts' (the 'collagen factories' that support collagen formation).  

Together they are the key components for the extracellular matrix which gives our skin its structure, elasticity, and firmness.

Collagen is the most abundant structural protein designed to support healthy, youthful-looking skin.

 

what is collagen used for

 

Your skin begins to loose its youthfulness when collagen production slows. After age 30, the collagen levels in your skin and body begin to drop by 1 to 2% each year. Collagen also starts to decline with exposure to other factors like UV rays, cigarette smoke, pollution, or poor diet, causing issues with our skin’s structural integrity. 

This strong as steel yet flexible protein is responsible for a lot in the human body, so what happens when it starts to deteriorate? Collagen breakdown is like when the frame of a house or the cushion under the mattress starts to crumble down. 

 

Characteristics of Aging Skin

 

Some of the most common visible signs of aging include:

    • Loss of elasticity and firmness
    • Loss of fullness and plumpness 
    • Formation of lines and wrinkles
    • Inability to bounce back after pinching
    • Rougher skin, instead of baby-soft skin
    • Sagging
    • Dryness, dullness, and lack of youth and radiance

     

    Taking the right and best type of oral collagen supplements can help reverse skin aging by reducing collagen loss. By taking collagen supplements you'll improve skin hydration, improve skin elasticity, strengthen weak bones, enjoy faster wound healing, and much more.

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    What Are Collagen Peptides

    Collagen peptides are short chains of combinations of the hundreds of specific amino acids that make up "collagen". There are 18 amino acids that appear in high concentrations, and three are considered key for the skin. These inlcude the amino acids Glycine, Proline, and Hydroxyproline. Glycine, Proline, and Hydroxyproline are present in unusually high concentrations in fish-sourced collagen products. Without these amino acids, our bodies cannot produce collagen like they should.

     

    How Collagen Peptides Are Made

     

    Creating effective collagen supplements for the skin is more complex than one might think. Let's dig a little deeper...

     

    The Triple Helix

     

    Collagen molecules are some of the largest molecules in the body (often called the super molecule). Its tightly wound triple helix design is simply too big and too strong (stronger than steel by weight) to penetrate the surface of the skin. It is also to strong to be broken down by digestive enzymes and absorbed into the bloodstream when ingested. 

    This makes it difficult for topical treatments or collagen drinks and collagen powders containing plain "collagen" to replenish collagen in the skin. While moisturizers, serums, and collagen creams containing plain collagen may claim to support natural collagen production, they can’t replace the collagen in your skin. The same is true for collagen supplements you ingest (be it a collagen powder, collagen pill or collagen drink) that contain plain, whole molecule "collagen". The molecule is just too big to be absorbed.

     

    In Comes Hydrolysis...

     

    Fortunately, several years ago researchers at a large food processing company in Japan discovered a solution to this problem. They invented (and patented) a technology to break apart the collagen super molecule into specific peptides, using various enzymes and high-pressure steam, a process called "Hydrolysis".  The end product is nano-sized snippets of collagen fibers called "Hydrolyzed Collagen" -- now commonly referred to as "Collagen Peptides".

    Thanks to the innovation of hydrolysis, collagen that has been hydrolyzed into specific collagen peptides can now efficiently deliver these small, usable peptides into our body when ingested, or applied topically, supporting our body's collagen structure and leaving us with beautiful, healthy skin.

     

    Sources of Animal Collagen & Collagen Peptides 

     

    Type I and Type 3 Collagen (for skin) are derived from:

    what's collagenwhat does collagen do to your body
    • The skin and/or scales of fish (also known as marine collagen),
    • Or, the bones, cartilage and/or hides of cows (also known bovine collagen),

     

    Type II Collagen (for joints) is made from bones and cartilage of animals:


    collagen what is itcollagen bodycollagen nutrition
    • The bones of pigs (also known as porcine collagen) 
    • Cartilage of chickens
    • Bones, cartilage and/or hides of cows (bovine collagen again)

     

    The majority of fish collagen is Type I collagen (90%), with some Type III collagen (10%). Our own body's collagen is approximately 85% Type I and is the primary building block of our skin's structure -- which explains why Type I Collagen is considered to be the most desirable ingredient in the best collagen supplements, and most beneficial for skin health.  

     

    Why Marine Collagen Is Superior for Skin Health

    nutrition collagen

    A lower molecular weight means enhanced absorption, which translates into increased bio-availability.

     

    Daltons Explained

     

    The molecular weight (measured in Daltons) of a collagen molecule in its native state is approximately 300,000 Daltons (Da). By comparison, the molecular weight of Type I fish (marine) hydrolyzed collagen ranges between 3,000Da and 8,000Da, with an average size of 5,000Da. 

    This dramatic reduction in size -- by a factor of 60 -- is equivalent to going from trying to swallow a basketball to swallowing a peanut. This is what enables fish and marine collagen to be absorbed up to 1.5 times more efficiently than bovine or other animal-sourced collagen.

     

    More About Type I Collagen & Marine Sources

     

    Type I collagen sourced from fish is processed from fish scales and/or fish skin -- parts of the fish that would otherwise be discarded, making them an environmentally responsible choice for collagen supplements.

    Type I hydrolyzed marine collagen is available in different grades, based on the type of fish and the part of the fish used.  

    The most premium grade of Type I marine collagen available today is produced in Japan by the same food processing company that invented (and patented) hydrolysis. This high-quality collagen peptide is sourced from Red Snapper, a sustainably-sourced, deep-water fish wild-caught in the South Pacific and Indian Oceans, using 100% fish scales ONLY (NO fish skin).

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    Collagen Peptides Proven Benefits

    Learn Why and How It Works. 

     

    Collagen Science In A Nutshell

     

    Multiple clinical trials have confirmed that hydrolyzed collagen, when ingested in a sufficiently high dose, is absorbed into the bloodstream at a high rate, with bio-availability of more than 90%.

    Once these peptides enter the bloodstream in a high enough concentration, the body detects their presence and triggers the 'wound healing' response in the brain -- similar to when you cut your finger. 

    The brain directs the peptides and amino acids to be transported to the dermis layer of the skin, and sends a signal to reactivate the fibroblasts (the specialized 'collagen factory' cells in the dermis, and the primary player on the 'skin repair' team) to synthesize new collagen fibrils, using the high concentration of key peptides present in the dermis as building blocks to initiate collagen production.

     

    what collagen does

     

     

    Why Are Specific Collagen Peptides Used for Anti-Aging Nutrition & Supplements?

     

    According to many professionals in clinical and aesthetic dermatology, the best collagen supplements for skin can increase and improve the appearance of your skin’s elasticity, firmness, and hydration, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

    Your skin will look younger and healthier, and you’ll be able to recover your skin’s natural glow. Clinical studies show ingesting collagen helps improve skin density, skin hydration, as well as smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

     

    But, Your Collagen Needs to Be Paired With the Right Ingredients...

     

    Yes, collagen can support your skin health but, it's important to combine it with the correct ingredients to truly reap all of its benefits.

    Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that acts as a co-factor of collagen. Without vitamin C, we cannot absorbs sufficient collagen to enjoy its full skin healing properties. With this in mind, we have coupled our marine collagen with an optimal dose of vitamin C as well as other skin-loving ingredients that will leave you with a glowing complexion.1

     

    Do Oral Collagen Supplements Provide Other Health Benefits? 

     

    In addition to the visible benefits of using collagen for human skin, studies show that taking collagen supplements could offer other health benefits. Here are some other collagen uses:

     

    Support Joint & Connective Tissue Health

     

    Studies have shown that collagen supplements may help treat osteoarthritis. Because collagen supplements allow the protein to accumulate in the cartilage, researchers believe this can help decrease the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis and general joint pain while improving overall joint function.

    Combined with antioxidants like vitamin C, the best collagen supplements can reduce free radical damage and inflammation in the body, supporting collagen production and the health of our collagen fibers. You may also notice improved bone mineral density and bone markers, as well as stronger muscle tissue.

     

    A Collagen Supplement for Your Gut

     

    Collagen can also help your gut function more effectively, reducing leaky gut and potentially helping your body naturally repair the lining of your gastrointestinal tract so that it works properly. Combine oral supplementation with a balanced diet, rich in citrus fruits, a variety of vegetables, and protein-rich foods, and you'll enjoy healthy collagen levels for years to come.

     

    Stronger Hair & Nails

     

    In cosmetic dermatology, there is also a lot of talk of the benefits of collagen for hair and nail growth. In fact, if you’ve noticed that your nails and hair have started to weaken and break easily, consuming collagen supplements can support your body’s production of this structural protein, reinforcing hair and nail strength.

     

    Can You Get Enough Collagen From Your Diet?

     

    The real question here is, can you eat collagen? The answer is yes but, that's doesn't mean that your body can absorb it. And, that's not to mention the other important factors to keep in mind.

     

    The Myths Surrounding Bone Broth

     

    For many years now, health enthusiasts have touted the benefits of eating protein-rich foods like bone broth to boost collagen production and replenish your skin's collagen stores but, this couldn't be further from the truth.

    Bone broth typically only contains small amounts of collagen, meaning it cannot significantly support collagen production. Moreover, it does not contain the correct collagen types to truly support skin health. Bone broth is packed with gelatin which contains more type II collagen. And, while this may support joint health and bone mineral density in small amounts, it will do very little for your skin.

    Last but not least, protein-rich foods like bone broth, when consumed in too high a quantity, can contain excess toxic metals like lead, among other nasties.

    With this in mind, an oral supplement like Taut's Advanced Liquid Collagen Formula is your best bet when it comes to supporting your skin and reducing collagen loss in the body.

     

    Do Some Foods Contain More collagen Than Others?

     

    All animals contain collagen, with the majority of it concentrated in the joints and skin.

    Typically, foods that contain the most collagen include:

    • The skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals. For example, pig joints, beef bones, and chicken skin.
    • Some types of seafood like jellyfish and fish skin.

     

    As mentioned previously, eating these types of foods does not provide you with adequate amounts of collagen to maintain optimal skin collagen stores. and, keep in mind, that you need other dietary components to support your body's collagen stores. Vitamin C rich foods, for example, such as citrus fruits, peppers, berries, and leafy greens

    Sticking to a diet high in plant-based foods will also support your skin by providing you with a wealth of nutrients that can help keep inflammation at bay, thus protecting you from collagen loss.2

     

    Foods That Can Help Boost Collagen

     

    There are some foods that are said to nurture collagen in the body. These include but are not limited to:

    • Foods with glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline such as soy, legumes, poultry fish, and eggs.
    • Foods high in zinc. For example, nuts, seeds, shellfish, and whole grains.
    • Foods high in antioxidants like vitamin C.

     

    What Are the side Effects of Taking Collagen?

     

    Generally speaking, collagen supplements like Taut's have a very good safety profile. That said, not all products are made the same and it is essential that you check the source of the collagen you are taking, and of course, any other ingredients in your supplement. Here are some tips:

     

    Avoid Excessively High Vitamin Doses

     

    When choosing a collagen supplement, you should check that it does not contain excessively high levels of certain vitamins. Many vitamins have an upper intake limit and, when exceeded, can cause serious side effects and health issues long-term.

     

    Be Aware of Herbal Extracts

     

    While vitamins have their upper intake limits, it's also important that you check whether or not the supplements you choose can cause adverse reactions when taken with any prescription medication you may have been prescribed.

     

    Things to Consider During Pregnancy & When Breastfeeding

     

    When it comes to the above, the same goes for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. While high-quality collagen should not lead to any negative side effects in pregnant and breastfeeding women when taken in the correct doses, it's important to check that other ingredients are safe during these times.

     

    Consult With Your Physician Before Undertaking Heart & Thyroid Tests

     

    Once again, collagen is not the problem when it comes to laboratory tests for the heart and thyroid. It is actually the vitamins that can cause an issue. For example, high doses of biotin can interfere with the results of your tests in both of these instances.

    With the above in mind, be sure to check labels before you start taking any supplement to rule out the chances of experiencing any adverse side effects.

    At Taut, we only use ingredients from the best possible sources. We also include healthy doses of each ingredient, keeping upper intake limits of vitamins and herbal extracts in mind to ensure that your collagen supplement never gets in the way of your health.

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    Taut® Collagen Safety Profile

    100% Pure Marine Collagen. Allergen and Chemical Free.

    Wild Caught Red Snapper From The South Pacific and Indian Oceans.

     

    Is Taut® Collagen Safe? 

     

    As with anything you ingest or apply to your skin, it is very important to understand the safety profile and sourcing history of the collagen contained in a supplement or topical product.

    Taut collagen peptides are 100% safe and have the following profile:

    • 100% Type I Collagen
    • 100% marine collagen derived from red snapper fish scales, wild caught from the South Pacific Ocean
    • Optimum molecular weight - 5,000 Daltons
    • Highest degree of purity - odorless, tasteless & colorless
    • Tested for heavy metals, pesticides, and contaminants
    • Free from animal-borne diseases
    • 'GRAS' status from FDA & Health Canada ("Generally Recognized As Safe")
    • Sustainably sourced - traceable supply chain
    • Manufactured In Japan 
    • ISO9001 certified
    • Obtained FDA import clearance
    • Adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices ('GMP')
    • Environmentally-friendly manufacturing process
    • Certified Non-GMO

     

    In addition to all of the above, our liquid collagen supplements and collagen peptide powders are packed with other skin and health-boosting ingredients including vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin B6, ceramides, grapeseed extract, among others. Our liquid collagen supplement and collagen powder are designed to support healthy collagen levels in the body so that you can enjoy a beautiful, radiant complexion for years to come!

     

     

    References:

    1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC5579659/
    2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC7146365/
    Why & How

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