Why High-Potency Collagen is Crucial for Bodily Functions

Collagen makes up around 30% of all protein in the human body and is the most abundant structural protein we have. There are over 25 different types of collagen, with types I, II, and III making up the majority.

Type I collagen, found in marine collagen, is the dominant form in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue. It plays a central role in the body's structure, strength, and elasticity.

Collagen in the body's structures

Skin

Collagen constitutes 75–80% of the skin's dry weight and contributes to the skin's firmness, structure, and elasticity. With increasing age, the body's own collagen production gradually decreases, which can affect the skin's resilience and volume over time.

Bones

Approximately 90% of organic bone mass consists of collagen. Collagen acts as a flexible scaffold to which minerals like calcium attach, and is an important part of bone structure.

Joints and cartilage

Cartilage contains large amounts of collagen, especially type II, and functions as a shock absorber between joints. Collagen is a natural part of the structure that enables normal mobility.

Tendons and ligaments

These tissues consist largely of collagen and connect muscles to bones as well as stabilize joints. Collagen contributes to strength and load tolerance.

Blood vessels

Collagen is incorporated into the structure of blood vessels and contributes to their natural elasticity and integrity.

Intestinal wall

Collagen is part of the connective tissue that supports the structure of the intestinal lining and contributes to its integrity.

Why high potency is relevant

In scientific studies, doses of 10 grams or more of collagen peptides daily are often used when investigating collagen's role and metabolism in the body. Lower doses provide a more limited supply of the amino acids that form collagen's structure.

With a daily intake of 10 grams or more, the body is supplied with, among other things:

• Collagen-specific amino acids such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline
• Building blocks involved in the body's continuous tissue renewal
• Support for the natural balance between collagen breakdown and synthesis

Bioavailability and absorption – the importance of peptide size

For collagen to be effectively absorbed, it must be hydrolyzed so that it exists as smaller peptides that can be absorbed in the small intestine.

Hydrolyzed collagen peptides occur in various molecular sizes, often within 2,000–5,000 Daltons. Within this range, collagen is generally considered suitable for absorption, but peptide size still matters.

Generally, the lower the molecular weight, the less further breakdown is required before absorption.

Oriwell liquid collagen is formulated with hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides of 1,500 Daltons. This peptide size makes the collagen finely divided and well-suited for the body's natural absorption processes, contributing to high bioavailability and efficient utilization of collagen-specific amino acids.

Long-term use

With regular intake of 10 grams or more daily, collagen use is often associated with gradual changes over time:

• 2–4 weeks: Skin's moisture balance may feel more supported
• 4–8 weeks: Skin's elasticity may gradually improve
• 8–12 weeks: Hair and nails may feel stronger
• 12+ weeks: Joint comfort and mobility may feel more supported with continued use

Individual experiences will vary.

Interaction with other nutrients

Collagen works best as part of a holistic composition and is often combined with selected nutrients, including:

• Vitamin C, which contributes to normal collagen formation
• Hyaluronic acid, which supports the skin's moisture balance
• Elastin, which is involved in the skin's structural interplay
• Zinc and copper, which contribute to normal connective tissue maintenance

Collagen is continuously integrated into the body's structures and is renewed daily through the body's own processes. Supplementing collagen in sufficient quantity and in an easily accessible form can therefore be seen as part of a long-term focus on the structure, function, and maintenance of tissues over time. When collagen is hydrolyzed into small peptides and combined with a daily dose of 10 grams or more, the supplement is tailored to the body's natural uptake and utilization in a precise and thoughtful manner.