Collagen type II

Collagen type II is a type of collagen that occurs naturally in the body. This protein is primarily found in cartilage, where it contributes to the strength and resilience of the tissue.

There are several types of collagen, each with its own role and location. Type I collagen, for example, is primarily found in bones, skin, and tendons. So, if you take a collagen supplement for your skin, it will be type I collagen. Type II collagen, on the other hand, is primarily found in cartilage, especially in joints.

For supplements or research, type II collagen is usually obtained from animal sources, such as chicken cartilage. Both undenatured (native) and hydrolyzed forms are available, depending on how the protein is processed.

There is hardly any type II collagen in a normal diet. When eating meat or bone broth, you do consume other types of collagen, but type II specifically is only present in very limited amounts. To get enough type II collagen, you would actually have to eat pure cartilage.

Collagen type II has been studied in several clinical studies in relation to joints and cartilage. Some examples from the literature:

• Crowley et al. (2009,International Journal of Medical Sciences)In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 52 participants, undenatured type II collagen was examined for knee problems. The researchers found that the group receiving collagen reported a greater average improvement in pain and function than the placebo group.
• Moskowitz (2000,Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism)This review article compiled several clinical studies and indicated that collagen type II has been associated with positive changes in joint complaints in several studies.