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BioCell Collagen II

Also known as: Type II collagen, UC-II®, Hydrolyzed collagen II, Chicken sternum collagen, Undenatured collagen II, Native collagen II, Type II Collagen

Overview

Type II collagen is a structural protein primarily derived from chicken sternum cartilage and other animal cartilage sources. It is a key component of joint cartilage, providing tensile strength and elasticity. As a supplement, it is available in two main forms: undenatured (UC-II) and hydrolyzed collagen II. UC-II is believed to work through an immune-mediated mechanism, while hydrolyzed collagen provides building blocks for cartilage synthesis. It is primarily used to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA) and as an adjunct therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Research suggests moderate evidence for its effectiveness in reducing OA pain and improving joint function. The evidence quality is considered moderate due to mixed outcomes and heterogeneity in clinical trials. It is generally considered safe, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort being the most commonly reported side effect.

Benefits

Type II collagen, particularly UC-II, has demonstrated benefits in reducing OA pain. Studies show a 20-40% pain reduction compared to placebo in short-term trials (3-6 months). Meta-analyses suggest sustained effects up to 12 months, although long-term data is limited. Functional improvement, as measured by WOMAC scores, has been observed, with improvements of 15-25% in OA patients. In RA, UC-II at a dosage of 20 µg/day has shown symptom improvement based on Paulus criteria. One RCT indicated that UC-II may enhance the outcomes of methotrexate therapy in RA patients. The evidence quality for OA pain reduction is moderate, while the evidence for RA benefits is less conclusive and requires further research.

How it works

UC-II is thought to work primarily through oral tolerance, modulating T-cell responses to reduce joint inflammation. This process involves the immune system recognizing the intact collagen structure and downregulating the immune response against it. Hydrolyzed collagen II, on the other hand, provides glycine and proline, which are essential amino acids for the synthesis of the extracellular matrix in cartilage. Hydrolyzed collagen is highly bioavailable, with over 90% absorption. UC-II's intact structure allows it to interact with the immune system in the gut, influencing systemic inflammation.

Side effects

The most common side effects associated with Type II collagen supplementation are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or nausea, with an incidence of 5-8%. Allergic reactions are rare (less than 1%), but possible, especially for individuals with poultry allergies, as the collagen is often derived from chicken sternum. There are no documented drug interactions. However, caution is advised for individuals with autoimmune conditions due to the theoretical risk of immune system modulation. Contraindications include known poultry allergies. It is generally considered safe, but individuals with pre-existing conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before use.

Dosage

For UC-II, the recommended dosage is 10-40 mg per day, with 20 mg considered optimal for rheumatoid arthritis. Hydrolyzed collagen II is typically dosed at 10-40 grams per day, divided into multiple doses. It is recommended to take collagen supplements with meals to enhance absorption. Vitamin C (500 mg) can be taken as a cofactor to support collagen synthesis. While specific upper limits have not been established, exceeding recommended dosages is not advised. Individual responses may vary, and it is best to start with a lower dose and gradually increase as needed.

FAQs

How soon will I see effects?

Measurable benefits for osteoarthritis typically appear within 8-12 weeks of consistent use. Individual responses may vary.

Can Type II collagen replace NSAIDs?

No, Type II collagen is intended for adjunctive use and should not replace NSAIDs or other prescribed medications.

Are there vegan alternatives to Type II collagen?

There are no equivalent vegan alternatives, as plant-based collagen lacks the specific type II structure found in animal sources.

Is it safe to take long term?

Type II collagen is generally considered safe for long-term use, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10773595/ – This article reviews the clinical use and efficacy of collagen supplementation. It discusses the different types of collagen and their respective roles in the body, highlighting the potential benefits of collagen supplementation for joint health, skin health, and wound healing. The review emphasizes the importance of considering the source and type of collagen when selecting a supplement.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10058045/ – This study investigates the effects of undenatured type II collagen (UC-II) on knee osteoarthritis. The results suggest that UC-II supplementation can significantly reduce pain and improve physical function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. The study highlights the potential of UC-II as a safe and effective alternative or adjunct therapy for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.
https://www.clinexprheumatol.org/article.asp?a=21013 – This research article examines the impact of collagen supplementation on rheumatoid arthritis. The findings indicate that collagen supplementation may help reduce joint pain and inflammation in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. The study suggests that collagen could be a valuable addition to the treatment regimen for rheumatoid arthritis, potentially improving patients' quality of life.
https://www.nmi.health/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/NMJ_Collagen_A-Review-of-Clinical-Use-and-Efficacy.pdf – This review provides an overview of the clinical applications and effectiveness of collagen. It covers various aspects of collagen, including its role in different tissues and the potential benefits of collagen supplementation for conditions such as osteoarthritis and skin aging. The review emphasizes the importance of choosing the appropriate type and dosage of collagen for specific health goals.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1756-185X.14382 – This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the efficacy of collagen hydrolysate for the treatment of osteoarthritis. The analysis of multiple randomized controlled trials suggests that collagen hydrolysate can significantly reduce pain and improve joint function in individuals with osteoarthritis. The study supports the use of collagen hydrolysate as a potential therapeutic option for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.