Part II: Which Collagen Type Supports Bones, Skin, Hair & Nails?
Last week, we talked about how collagen can serve as a protein—and how to use it strategically in your diet.
This week, we’re getting more specific.
Because not all collagen works the same way.
Depending on your goals, it’s important to understand the distinction.
(Revisit the last newsletter here!)
Collagen and Bone Health: What’s New
A recent study in women with osteopenia and osteoporosis found that certain types of collagen were able to:
• Increase bone mineral density (BMD)
• Reduce bone breakdown
That’s a big deal!
It’s part of a growing body of research showing that collagen can play a role in bone health.
The Catch
Here’s what I didn’t know until I did a deep dive:
The collagen used in these studies isn’t the same as what you’ll typically find on store shelves.
It’s a more specialized form called:
Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides (SCPs)
Here’s a simple way to understand SCP’s:
Most protein—including collagen—is broken down into individual amino acids during digestion. Think: loose LEGO pieces.
SCPs are different.
They contain small chains of amino acids, called peptides, that can act as signals—helping guide how the body builds and repairs tissue. Think: pre-built LEGO pieces.
Regular protein gives you raw materials.SCPs provide materials plus instructions.
Different Types of Collagen
Different types of collagen support different goals:
• FORTIBONE® → bone
Supports bone formation and helps reduce breakdown
→ ~5 g/day
• FORTIGEL® → joints
Supports cartilage, mobility, reduces comfort→ ~5 g/day
• VERISOL® → skin
Supports elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle reduction→ ~2.5–5 g/day
What about hair?
Collagen can support hair strength by providing key building blocks.
But when it comes to growth or reversing hair loss, the evidence is still limited.
What Most People Take
Most over-the-counter collagen products are standard hydrolyzed collagen peptides.
These can still be helpful.
Think of them as general support for:
• skin
• hair
• nails
• joints and connective tissue
But they don’t have the same actions as SCP’s such as:
• improving bone density
• signaling effects
So… Which Collagen Should You Choose?
How to choose?
It depends on your goals.
For general support:→ standard collagen peptides
For bone health:→ FORTIBONE® (~5 g/day)
For joints:→ FORTIGEL®
For skin:→ VERISOL®
If you’ve been taking collagen for skin or joint support—you’re not wrong.
But if your goal is bone density, it’s worth taking a closer look at the type you’re using.
All collagen supports.
But only certain collagen peptides target specific outcomes.
Warmly,
Dr. Krista
Reference Article (if you’re curious)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34520654/
Olive Says
I get my collagen from the chewy bits you dumb humans throw away.
Keeps my joints nimble for hopping on and off the furniture!