Collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin

The condition of cartilage and joints is extremely important for the proper functioning of the body. Even if they are still in good condition, they should be cared for, because like the human body, they wear out over the years, and not only in people who are exposed to damage professionally or sportingly. Joints and cartilage are responsible for human motor functions – without them, no movements would be possible. In addition, overload can lead to accelerated breakdown of motor elements in the human body. To protect the joints, you should think about healthy habits, e.g. B. an omega-3-rich diet or daily exercise. It is also worth supporting the body with appropriate dietary supplements.


Collagen - why is it important and how to get it?

A third of the proteins in the human body are collagen. It is a component of bones, cartilage, tendons and skin. This fibrillar protein builds connective tissue and there are up to 29 types. A characteristic feature of collagen is its structure. It is arranged in so-called super helis, i.e. a kind of triple helix. It affects the functionality and properties of joints, cartilage and skin. Water is an inseparable part of collagen - it corresponds to the stable structure and biological activity of the protein.

The basic roles of collagen include maintaining the elasticity of tissues and organs, maintaining resistance to stretching, a role in tissue reconstruction and wound healing. In addition, it helps keep the skin smooth and elastic. It is extremely important for them, mainly because it is responsible for its durability. Collagen synthesis tends to decrease with age. Therefore, collagen is used in aesthetic medicine to fill in scars or wrinkles.

Collagen, which can be supplied to the body "from the outside", is found in meat jellies, bone broth and offal, among other things. However, its digestibility is low and, after all, it is not found in many foods. Therefore, it is worth taking collagen in the form of dietary supplements, most often in the form of capsules for drinking or as a soluble powder. It is often used by athletes, bodybuilders, people at risk of arthritis, and the elderly.

Glucosamine to protect the joints

Another supplement that may support joints, cartilage, and ligaments is glucosamine sulfate. It is a natural component of synovial fluid, which retains water in connective tissue, giving it elasticity and flexibility. Glucosamine should be used prophylactically to support the work of the joints, it is also helpful for joint-related complaints. It occurs naturally in seafood such as crab and shrimp. However, it is not recommended for people with disorders of the cardiac conduction system.

Chondroitin, a natural shock absorber

Used both as a dietary supplement and as a dietary supplement, chondroitin also occurs naturally in the human body. It acts as a shock absorber for the joints and is one of the main components of cartilage tissue. It is thanks to him that the human body produces proteoglycans that produce grease that protects the joints from external influences.

Therefore, its deficiency in the human body can cause bruising or injury. It is worth using chondroitin prophylactically in times of greater stress on the joints, for example during increased training or as an aid in the event of a deficiency in the body. Chondroitin is often combined with glucosamine as a dietary supplement.