Nutritional Supplement

Cartilage and Collagen

Cartilage, derived from shark, bovine (cow), and other animal sources, is a type of connective tissue composed of mucopolysaccharides (including chondroitin sulfate), protein substances, calcium, sulfur, and collagen. Collagen is one of the proteins found in most connective tissues, including cartilage, bone, and skin. Gelatin is a form of collagen commonly used in foods, and preliminary reports suggest that consuming gelatin can improve the structure and health of the hair and nails.1,2,3,4 Collagen hydrolysate is produced by enzymatically breaking down bovine gelatin to smaller protein fragments.

References

1. Scala J, Hollies N, Sucher KP. Effect of daily gelatin ingestion on human scalp hair. Nutr Rep Int 1976;13:579-92.

2. Morganti P, Randazzo SD. Nutrition and hair. J Appl Cosmetol1984;2:41-9.

3. Tyson TL. The effect of gelatin on fragile finger nails. Invest Dermatol1950;14:323-5.

4. Rosenberg S, Oster KA, Kallos A, Burroughs W. Further studies in the use of gelatin in the treatment of brittle nails. AMA Arch Derm 1957;76:330-5.

5. Adam M. Osteoarthritis therapy with gelatin preparations: Results of a clinical study. Therapiewoche 1991;38:2456-61 [in German].

6. Lugo JP, Saiyed ZM, Lane NE. Efficacy and tolerability of an undenatured type II collagen supplement in modulating knee osteoarthritis symptoms: a multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutr J 2016;15:14.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.