🧬 Collagen types 1, 2 and 3 – what are the differences and why are they important for health?
Collagen is one of the most important proteins in the human body. But few people know that there are different types of collagen, each with its own purpose. In this article, we will look at the three main types – 1, 2 and 3, and explain why they are so valuable to our health.
🧪 What is collagen?
Collagen is a fibrous protein that forms the structural basis of skin, bones, joints, tendons and muscles. It makes up over 30% of all proteins in the human body. Its production naturally decreases with age, leading to loss of elasticity, joint pain, and slower tissue regeneration.
🧬 Collagen Type 1: For Skin, Bones, and Teeth
Type 1 is the most abundant type of collagen in the human body. It represents over 90% of all collagen fibers.
👉 Main functions:
Maintains skin elasticity and strength
Takes care of the structure of bones and teeth
Helps fast wound healing
Supports hair and nail growth and strength
📍 Best for:
People looking for skin rejuvenation, bone strengthening, and slowing down the signs of aging.
🦴 Collagen Type 2: For Healthy Joints and Cartilage
Type 2 collagen is the main component of cartilage.
👉 Main functions:
Ensures smooth movement of joints
Reduces inflammation and pain in arthritis
Restores cartilage tissue after injuries or degenerative processes
📍 Best for:
People with joint problems, athletes, the elderly and anyone who wants prevention against osteoarthritis.
💪 Collagen Type 3: For Muscles and Internal Organs
Type 3 is often found together with type 1, especially in the tissues of organs, vessels and muscles.
👉 Main functions:
Maintains the structure of arteries and organs
Take care of the elasticity of connective tissues
Helps restore muscle tissue
📍 Best for:
People in recovery, active athletes and those in need of improving cardiovascular health.
🧴 How to choose the right collagen?
Depending on your goals, you can choose:
Type 1 and 3 – combined products for skin, hair and nails
Type 2 – alone or with hyaluronic acid for joints
Hydrolyzed collagen – for better absorption in the body
🍲 Foods rich in collagen:
Bone broth
Jellied products
Shrimp and fish with skin
Eggs (especially the shell membrane)
Citrus fruits (help with its synthesis through vitamin C)
🌍 Why is this important for Bulgarian consumers?
Bulgarian dietary habits and climate influence collagen production. Therefore, it is good to take into account local conditions:
Winter reduces vitamin D → weaker collagen synthesis
Stress and smoking also hinder regeneration
💡 Expert advice: Include Bulgarian superfoods such as nettle and rosehip – they contain high doses of vitamin C and antioxidants.
✅💚Conclusion
Collagen types 1, 2 and 3 play a key role in the health of your skin, joints, bones and organs. Choosing the right type according to your needs is essential for your long-term well-being. For quality collagen products tailored to the Bulgarian market and climate, visit:
