Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, comprising more than 30% of the total weight of all the body's proteins. As a structural protein, it plays a vital role in conferring elasticity and strength to various tissues, including cartilage, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue, skeletal muscles, blood vessels, skin, bones and teeth. During collagen synthesis, amino acids are strung together to form a polypeptide chain, a process which is assisted by essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Through juxtaposition and cross-linking, thicker collagen fibres can be formed. The specific type of collagen present in a particular tissue depends on the type of tissue itself.
Type I: 90% of the collagen in the human body; especially in skin, bones, tendons and cartilage
Type V: intercellular junctions of the epidermis and dermis
Type X: in cartilage chondrocytes
Elastin
Like collagen, elastin is a structural protein. While collagen primarily imparts strength, elastin, as its name implies, possesses elasticity.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid, also called hyaluronan, is a long-chain polysaccharide with a high water-binding capacity and high structure viscosity (plasticity), which maintains the elasticity of the skin and connective tissues. At the same time, it is a significant component of the joint fluid, the tear film and the vitreous body of the eye.
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA):
- Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin, cartilage, bones, gums and teeth and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
- Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and skin.
- Selenium contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and nails and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
