1. Human Physical Performance Is Closely Related to Collagen Absorption
Human physical performance follows almost the same curve as collagen absorption. From age 1 to 20, the body’s ability gradually increases, reaching its peak between ages 20 and 25. From 25 to 45, it gradually declines, decreasing by about 1.5% per year.
After age 45, physical capacity declines more rapidly because the body can no longer naturally absorb collagen effectively. As a result, significant physiological changes occur. For women, menopause eventually leads to the cessation of reproductive function. For men, declining vitality and sexual function act as natural protective mechanisms. These physiological adjustments help slow the loss of collagen within the body.
2. The Principle of Collagen Absorption
How can we address this natural decline in the body? The principle is simple: restore the body’s ability to absorb collagen.
A fundamental concept must be understood:
Collagen must be broken down into small-molecule peptides before it can be absorbed by the intestines.
The intestinal microvilli can only allow substances of approximately 10,000 Daltons (Da) or smaller to pass through and be absorbed. However, intact collagen molecules are approximately 300,000 Da, which is far too large to pass through these microscopic channels.
Peptides, by contrast, are generally smaller than 10,000 Da, allowing them to be absorbed by the body and subsequently reassembled into collagen where needed.
3. Why Collagen Is So Important
Collagen is extremely important because it is the only triple-helix structural protein in the human body (DNA has a double helix, while most other proteins have single-chain structures). This structure gives collagen exceptional tensile strength and resistance to compression.
Therefore, many of the body’s most critical systems and organs are composed largely of collagen or peptides, including:
- Skin
- Blood vessels
- Joints
- Internal organs
- Immunoglobulins (the body’s immune defenders)
- Enzymes (the body’s biological catalysts)
- Connective tissues (tendons and ligaments)
- The endocrine system
Collagen accounts for approximately 3.2% of body weight (while water makes up about 60–70% of body weight).
4. Functional Roles of Collagen in the Human Body
1. Skin
About 70% of the skin is composed of collagen. Collagen helps maintain firmness, smoothness, and elasticity, giving the skin a youthful and radiant appearance. Absorbable collagen peptides are therefore key ingredients in many skincare products.
2. Blood Vessels (Arteries)
Arteries consist of inner and outer layers, and their walls must remain highly elastic to transport blood effectively. Since they are largely composed of collagen, insufficient collagen can weaken vessel walls, increasing the risk of rupture, stroke, or even death.
3. Joint Cartilage
Joint cartilage consists of approximately 90% collagen and 10% calcium. It is one of the most heavily used and friction-prone tissues in the body and requires constant repair. Adequate collagen can help maintain joint health and reduce pain or the need for surgery.
4. Internal Organs
The body’s vital organs are primarily composed of smooth muscle tissue, which relies heavily on collagen. To maintain youthful organ function, sufficient collagen is required to support ongoing metabolic renewal.
5. Immunoglobulins
Immunoglobulins act as the body’s defensive soldiers. These immune components require strong structural support, and collagen’s triple-helix structure—with its exceptional tensile and compressive strength—provides this essential foundation.
6. Endocrine System
The body’s eight major endocrine systems, the hormones (enzymes) secreted by internal organs, and even sperm cells are composed largely of peptides. Providing sufficient peptides helps maintain strong endocrine activity and supports overall vitality.
7. Nervous System
In medical science, nerves are often described as neuronal peptides. Some neurons—such as spinal neurons—can reach lengths of up to one meter and are composed largely of peptide structures. Adequate peptide intake may help reduce age-related neurological decline, such as memory loss.
8. Retina
The retina is largely composed of collagen and is closely associated with visual function. Conditions such as floaters, declining vision, and cataracts are often related to insufficient collagen support.