The truth is nobody really knows for sure how big or small a collagen molecule must be before it can be absorbed by the gut and then into the bloodstream, or even if size is the most important issue. However, in line with everything else we know about digestive absorption; most scientists agree it seems logical to assume smaller is better. Hydrolysed collagen peptide molecules weigh approximately 2000 to 6000 Daltons. The precise weight of hydrolysed marine collagen peptides depends on the process of hydrolysis; the more refined the process, the lower the molecular weight of the particles. But why is marine collagen absorbed more easily than bovine collagen? The reason may be that is has a lower molecular weight; though this idea is hotly debated by different science camps and has been the subject of many recent articles on this subject. Our type 1 Marine Collagen is guaranteed to have an average molecular weight of less than 2000 Daltons.

But if collagen production is a natural phenomenon in the human body, what is the point of taking collagen supplements? The answer to this lies in the fact that around the age of 20, our body’s natural collagen production begins to decrease by 1% each year . Hydrolysed marine collagen peptides are extracted from fish just like marine collagen. Hydrolysed marine collagen goes through hydrolysis to lower its molecular weight.Here at VitaBright, our pure type I hydrolysed marine collagen peptides are formulated to weigh less than 2000 Daltons. As explained above, this means that they are easy to digest and get absorbed. They are guaranteed to show successful results in a short time.

Collagen occurs naturally in our bodies and aids in our overall aging process. Collagen supplements, including hydrolysed marine collagen, are created to slow the aging process and aid in maintaining good health. The general process of hydrolysis involves heating the collagen first to denature the helical structure and separate the three polypeptide chains. This denaturation takes place at temperatures above 40 °C. After the triple helix has unravelled, the collagen molecule is hydrolysed with proteolytic enzymes like pepsin, alcalase, and papain. The end product is hydrolysed collagen peptides. So, if you break down marine collagen even further, the resulting hydrolysed marine collagen peptides are sure to be absorbed even more successfully, bringing about faster, more obvious results. How is hydrolysed marine collagen extracted from marine collagen?Marine collagen comes from fish and bovine collagen comes from cattle. Despite being derived from different sources, they both have the same amino acids as the collagen found in humans; however, the ratios of collagen types I, II, and III vary between marine- and bovine-sourced collagen and that found in our bodies. One collagen molecule comprises three polypeptide chains that intertwine with one another in a triple helix arrangement. The two predominant amino acids that make up the protein structure are glycine, hydroxyproline, and proline .

Skin, after all, is designed to keep germs and other unwanted substances out, so we know it protects against large molecules. Most s cientists believe collagen molecules of 500 Daltons or smaller will allow skin absorption – something to bear in mind when your choosing your next face cream.

Vitamin C Your body needs vitamin C to make hydroxyproline, one of the main amino acids that form collagen (indeed there’s plenty of evidence that vitamin C stimulates type 1 collagen production). Vitamin C is also a very potent antioxidant and can help to keep skin clear. Collagen is a vital part of the human body. Its flexibility and water retention capacity make it a major contributing factor to skin smoothness and elasticity. A recently conducted study indicated that type I hydrolysed marine collagen may also have antibacterial effects that help in the prevention and treatment of staphylococcus infection. A research conducted in 2013 has determined that hydrolysed marine collagen peptides help build bone strength by increasing the absorption of minerals like calcium and phosphorus that are required for bone growth, and for stimulating osteoblastic activity. A study conducted in 2010 also determined that hydrolysed collagen peptides could help in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Biotin Another B vitamin, biotin can contribute to skin problems if you’re not getting enough of it. One small-scale study found taking a daily supplement containing collagen as well as other ingredients including biotin may significantly improve skin hydration and elasticity after just 12 weeks.

Hydrolysed marine collagen is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option when compared to collagen supplements sourced from animals like cows. According to data collected by the UN, nearly 50 million tons of fish are wasted every year . If these were used to make collagen supplements, not only would it be cost-effective, but it will also be good for the environment. Adding to this, fish protein releases fewer greenhouse gasses than most other meat products including cow products. Vitamin B2 Also called riboflavin, vitamin B2 is widely thought to have antioxidant and anti-ageing properties. Vitamin B2 may also help your body absorb and use zinc.The focus of hydrolysis is to break down the large marine collagen particles into smaller particles that have a lower molecular weight. The unit used to quantify the weight and size of particles and molecules is known as a ‘Dalton’. These hydrolysed marine collagen peptides are usually produced as a tasteless, odourless powder that can be added to hot and cold drinks. Some even come in the form of pills and capsules that can be taken with meals. Marine collagen is predominantly composed of collagen type I, with small amounts of collagen type II, and is sourced from fish skin, bones, and scales. This makes it a rich source of collagen peptides and as such, studies have also proven it to be the best for consumption . Since it plays an essential part in maintaining internal and external body health, collagen is regarded as an integral protein. In fact, you could say that collagen is the glue that holds your body together. The word even comes from the Greek for glue: kólla.