Collagen is a structural protein that acts as a building block for our bones, skin, teeth, muscles and other connective tissues. There are many types of collagen, but 90% of the collagen found in the human body are types I, II and III. As we already know, collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, in fact it represents one third of the total protein in our body and 70% of the protein in our skin.

Hydrolyzed collagen means that it has gone through a process of hydrolysis, breaking down the amino acids into smaller molecules, which makes it easier for our body to digest and absorb.

Collagen is important because it provides structure in our connective tissue and can be found in our bones, ligaments, tendons, hair, nails and other structures of the body. The production of this vital substance decreases with age. Other factors that can affect collagen production include pollution and poor nutrition.

Let’s take a look at some of the most notable benefits we can enjoy on our skin. If you want radiant, smooth, healthy-looking skin, you should include hydrolyzed collagen in your diet, as taking it can greatly counteract some signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydrolyzed collagen can reduce the appearance of cellulite and even accelerate the recovery of wounds. Skin elasticity is another benefit we can experience. Many people do not know that UV radiation (sun rays) destroys collagen, which deteriorates the structure of the skin. By including this type of collagen in our diet, we increase the density of the collagen already in our skin. Collagen can be found in the middle of the dermis. Therefore, it is vital for us to provide our skin with a “support system” underneath to help with the damage of aging and sun damage.

As we age, skin breakdown is directly affected by amino acid content. Collagen production declines as we age, at a rate of 1 to 2% each year after age 25. Therefore, it is recommended to increase our collagen intake after this age. The skin is not the only structure improved by taking collagen, there are many other parts of our body that can receive great benefits.

Hydrolyzed collagen can strengthen our joints making them less prone to injury. By taking our daily dose of collagen, we can reduce joint pain and increase cartilage density, making the joints more flexible, something important to keep in mind if we do strenuous or high impact activities constantly.

Collagen can also help us keep our weight under control by helping us turn our body into a fat burning machine. Glycine builds muscle by converting glucose into energy, lean muscle tissue boosts our metabolism, as muscle burns more calories than fat.

Another benefit of collagen is an improvement in intestinal health by repairing and strengthening the intestinal and stomach lining, reduction of leaky gut syndrome and better absorption of nutrients. Since intestinal problems are linked to a variety of health problems, an increase in collagen intake may also improve overall health.

3CO contains citric acid, which is found in many fruits such as oranges or grapefruit. This acid improves the properties of collagen and allows a better absorption by our body. Citric acid not only supplies our skin with more collagen, but also encourages it to continue producing collagen on its own.

Older people will find more noticeable benefits in their skin from taking collagen than younger people, but if you’re over 20, you can still take 3CO and notice the improvement in your joints, post-workout recovery and an increase in your gut health.

3CO works great as a post-workout supplement and has a delicious watermelon flavor. If you are looking for an improvement in your overall health while looking radiant and recovering faster from your workout routines, this is the right product for you.