What Exactly Is Collagen? (and why do we need it?)
What Is Collagen? Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in your body, making up about 25% to 35% of total protein and a critical component of connective tissues like skin, bones, tendons , and cartilage Wikipedia and The Nutrition Source . Biologically speaking, its name comes from the Greek kólla , meaning “glue” Wikipedia . The classic triple-helix structure: two α1 chains and one α2 chain (gives strength and resilience to collagen fibers) How Many Types of Collagen Are There? Scientists have identified between 28 to 29 types of collagen, each with unique structure and function. Here’s a quick breakdown : Types I, II, III, V, XI : Fibrillar collagens , forming strong fibers Type IV : Basement membrane/net-forming , supporting skin structure Types IX, XII, XIV, XIX, XXI : FACIT collagens , helping weave the extracellular matrix Other categories include anchoring (like t...