Type 1 Collagen Improves Runners' Joints - New Research
Collagen is a really important protein in our bodies, especially for active individuals like runners. It’s like the glue that holds everything together! It’s found in our muscles, bones, joints and skin and if we don’t have enough collagen, we’ll feel more achy, take longer to recover from runs and become more susceptible to injuries.
Now, let’s talk about Type 1 collagen hydrolysate, which is a form of collagen that has been broken down so our bodies can use it more easily (also called collagen peptides). This is the type of collagen found in our Run Easy marine collagen. In a recent study on bone, muscle and joint health - "The Effects of Type I Collagen Hydrolysate Supplementation on Bones, Muscles, and Joints: A Systematic Review," it uncovered some really interesting findings, especially in relation to joint health.
What Did the Study Find?
The researchers reviewed a number of smaller studies about Type 1 collagen hydrolysate and its effects on bones, muscles, and joints. They were especially interested in how it could help with joint pain and mobility.
Here’s a breakdown of what the study found about the benefits of Type 1 collagen hydrolysate for joints:
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Helps with Joint Pain
One of the main findings is that Type 1 collagen hydrolysate can help reduce joint pain. This includes pain reduction in athletes with functional knee problems - the use of collagen demonstrates a statistically significant improvement in activity-related pain. This is because when you take collagen supplements, it supports the cartilage, which helps protect the joints and reduce pain. Imagine the cartilage in your joints like a cushion that helps your bones not rub directly against each other. Collagen helps keep that cushion strong!
2. Improves Joint Mobility
Collagen can help improve joint mobility. This means that people who take Type 1 collagen hydrolysate may find it easier to move their joints and do exercise. The study showed that people who took collagen supplements regularly had better flexibility and movement in their joints. This is because collagen helps your body rebuild and maintain the cartilage and tissues around your joints, making them more flexible and stronger.
3. Supports Cartilage Health
As we grow older or if we overuse our joints (like running a lot), the cartilage in our joints can get damaged. Cartilage doesn’t grow back on its own very easily, but collagen can help. The study found that Type 1 collagen hydrolysate may help to repair and rebuild cartilage. This is important because the healthier your cartilage is, the less likely you are to experience pain or stiffness in your joints.
4. Strengthens the Ligaments and Tendons Around the Joints
Collagen doesn’t just help the cartilage in your joints, but also the ligaments and tendons that surround and support them. Ligaments connect bones to other bones, and tendons connect muscles to bones. If these tissues are strong and healthy, your joints will be better supported. The study found that collagen can help strengthen these tissues, which in turn can reduce the risk of injuries and help people recover faster from joint problems.
How Does Type 1 Collagen Hydrolysate Work?
You might be wondering how exactly Type 1 collagen hydrolysate works in your body. Well, when you take it as a supplement, it gets broken down into tiny pieces called amino acids. These amino acids are then used by your body to support the health of your joints, skin, bones, and muscles. It’s like giving your body extra building blocks to repair and strengthen itself! The great thing is that Type 1 collagen hydrolysate, like Run Easy, is super easy for your body to absorb, which is why it works so well.
Runners need collagen!
So, what does all this mean for you as a runner? The study shows that supplementing with collagen can help reduce joint pain, improve flexibility, and protect your cartilage and the tissues around your joints. As a runner this means that collagen hydrolysate can help you stay running for longer and with fewer aches and pains – it’s time to train without the strain!
