Collagen: What Is It, and Why Is It Recommended After Age 25?

What is collagen? You’ve probably wondered about this term many times. It’s actually quite simple: collagen is a type of protein in the human body that is responsible for strength and elasticity and serves as the so-called “scaffold” for tissues.

Collagen forms the foundation of the skin, joints, ligaments, tendons, and bones. Without it, the body would be unable to form and maintain its current shape.

After the age of 25, natural biological processes take place, so collagen synthesis gradually decreases. That is why this age is often associated with an increase in demand for collagen supplements for skin, hair, and joint care. But collagen is not just a popular supplement; it is the so-called “elixir of youth,” which will help you maintain your beauty for a long time to come.

What is collagen?

As mentioned earlier, collagen is a protein that accounts for nearly a quarter of all the protein in the body. It is a key component of the skin, tendons, ligaments, and even blood vessel walls. Our body is very clever, as it is capable of synthesizing the protein it needs on its own.

But just like a builder, it desperately needs resources for construction. In other words, to do its job, the body primarily needs amino acids. Primarily, these are glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. “Spoiler alert”—these amino acids are the main building blocks of collagen.  You can also get these amino acids from food by eating enough protein. 

Another key factor is vitamin C, combined with trace minerals such as zinc and copper. Without these elements, collagen synthesis slows down, even when we need our bodies to start producing more collagen. Sport Generation Beauty Formula 210 g can be an excellent solution to supplement your diet, as it contains a full serving of marine collagen with vitamin C, the aforementioned minerals, and hyaluronic acid, ensuring you get the most out of every serving.

Types of collagen and what they're used for

There are more than 20 different types of collagen in the human body, but three of them are the most important.

That is why manufacturers often specify the types of collagen so that potential buyers can determine which type is right for them.

Why is “collagen after 25” all the rage?

Many studies explain why collagen levels decline. This occurs because the aging process begins after age 25, and as a result, the body’s collagen production decreases each year—by approximately 1% annually. Additionally, external factors such as UV radiation from the sun, smoking, chronic stress, lack of sleep, and protein deficiency also contribute to this decline. This also includes a sedentary lifestyle and an excess of fast-acting carbohydrates in the diet, which also inhibit collagen production. Therefore, Sport Generation Flex Support 400 g can delay the signs of aging in your joints and ligaments and give you confidence in every step and movement.

Signs that may indicate a decrease in collagen

Don’t be intimidated by TikTok or Instagram videos that scare you with stories about signs of declining collagen production. These aren’t diagnoses, but simply signals telling you that you need to make adjustments to your lifestyle. 

Common signs include dryness and loss of skin elasticity, brittle nails and hair, and a very common occurrence lately—joint pain, especially after physical activity.

To put these signs behind you for good, we recommend trying Sport Generation Beauty Collagen, a powdered marine collagen supplement with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. This form is easily absorbed and pleasant to drink, thanks to its natural, mild taste.

Collagen in food vs. collagen in supplements

“Why do you need collagen? Just eat some aspic and you’ll be fine!” That’s what most people think, and it’s partly true. Bone broths, aspic, and jellies do indeed contain collagen, but the amount, type, and absorption depend on how they’re prepared. And the practicality of consuming them this way is highly questionable.

Protein is a different story; it’s the building material, since the amino acids we get from fish, chicken, or many other sources help the body synthesize collagen.

Collagen supplements are the most convenient and effective way to take it. You can choose capsules, powder, or liquid, ensuring you get the exact dose of collagen and the essential additional ingredients for better absorption. Imagine—you’ll no longer have to cook aspic and stand at the stove for half a day. You simply get up in the morning, grab the pleasant-to-the-touch Sport Generation Beauty Formula jar, stir in the collagen from this brand, and enjoy the pleasant taste—easily and simply drinking the elixir of youth and beauty. You have to admit, it’s much more convenient, saves time, and is also very tasty.

Which collagen to choose: forms, sources, criteria

Hydrolyzed collagen (peptides)

This is the most common form, as it dissolves well and is easily absorbed. At Sport Generation, we chose it specifically as collagen for skin, hair, and general care due to its versatility and ease of absorption. When choosing this type of collagen, pay attention to the serving size, which is usually 5 g. This collagen is often available in powder form, with both flavored and unflavored options, so choose the one that suits you best.

Undenatured Type II Collagen

A common type used for joint health. Supplements containing undenatured collagen support the immune system and reduce discomfort. Undenatured Type II collagen is particularly recommended for arthritis and high-impact activities. Sport Generation Flex Support is designed to meet these exact needs. This supplement contains a blend of collagen types in effective doses, successfully combined with anti-inflammatory and restorative ingredients. This formula has everything you need for healthy joints.

Sources of Collagen

Marine collagen ranks at the top in terms of popularity and bioavailability, as its structure is most similar to that of human collagen, making it a versatile solution for addressing skin or joint issues. That is why Sport Generation has chosen marine collagen for its formulas—a brand synonymous with modernity, convenience, and versatility. Beef collagen is no less popular, as it is a versatile collagen for the overall strengthening of joints, cartilage, and skin. Pork collagen, which is also structurally similar to human collagen, falls into this category as well.

⚠️ People with fish allergies should avoid marine collagen.

Collagen + Vitamin C

This combination is quite logical and essential. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis in the human body, and collagen supplements are combined with it for optimal absorption. Collagen with vitamin C is the most popular combination of these two elements, which can be found in the effective formula Sport Generation Beauty Collagen 210 g.

How to take collagen

People usually recommend taking it in the morning on an empty stomach, which makes perfect sense. Collagen is better absorbed on an empty stomach because nothing will interfere with its absorption. However, even if it’s not convenient for you to take it in the morning, make sure to take it at a time when your stomach isn’t too full. Therefore, the time isn’t as important as consistency.

The recommended duration of use is 3 months. It is during this period that you will begin to notice certain changes, as collagen supplements work over time and are not a miracle cure that takes effect after just a few doses.

The most popular choice is collagen in powder form, such as Sport Generation Flex Support 400 g—for joint care—or Sport Generation Beauty Formula 210 g—for beauty maintenance. They can be mixed with water or juice; some people even add them to coffee or tea. However, the flavors of these supplements are simply incredible, so we recommend using plain water—250–350 ml is more than enough to turn your collagen serving into a true morning treat.

A checklist to make sure the appointment is worthwhile:

• enough protein in your diet;
• adequate sleep;
• sun protection (SPF creams);
• daily exercise and physical activity;
• enough water intake.

⚠️Who should be careful

Who Should Avoid Collagen (Contraindications). First and foremost, pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution; collagen should only be taken after consulting a doctor. People with seafood allergies should also avoid marine collagen. Read the ingredients carefully and choose alternative types of collagen. People with chronic gastrointestinal conditions or those taking potent medications must consult with and obtain approval from a doctor.

It is important to remember that collagen is not a medication, but merely a supplement that, when combined with diet, lifestyle, physical activity, and, if necessary, medical treatment, can help improve the condition of the skin, hair, or joints and ligaments.

💡Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s worth emphasizing once again that collagen is a fundamental protein essential for the health of your skin, hair, nails, and joints.

Collagen becomes particularly important after age 25, as its production gradually declines, which is why maintaining collagen levels is so crucial. We’ve discussed which foods contain collagen, but collagen supplements are the most convenient and beneficial addition to your diet, provided you maintain a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. All you need to do is choose which types of collagen (I, II, or III) are right for you and take them regularly to see improvements and results.

References

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31627309/ - randomized studies on the effects of collagen and its efficacy.
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742704/ - the effect of collagen on reducing skin aging.
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26822714/ - the effectiveness of undenatured type 2 collagen on the body.
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18416885/ - a study on the effectiveness of collagen in athletes and joint problems.
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37822045/ - a study on the effectiveness of collagen on skin condition.