You’ve undoubtedly heard of collagen, the component found inside of skin that’s responsible for its brightness and elasticity. Youthful skin is packed with collagen, whereas aging skin begins to experience a diminishing of this compound. But there is another collagen that you should be made familiar with: type 2 collagen.

Type 2 collagen (also known as C2, CII, Hydrolized Collagen Type 2 and Chicken Type 2 Collagen) is found in cartilage, which is responsible for cushioning your joints. Without this important peptide, cartilage loses its tensile strength and durability. A lack of type 2 collagen – and therefore weakened cartilage – can result in inflammation and pain associated with conditions such as:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Joint pain after surgery
• Chronic back or neck pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Joint pain after surgery
• Chronic back or neck pain

Type 2 collagen peptides can be ingested orally to boost the condition of the body’s cartilage, but there are side effects and considerations to keep in mind before you choose to add collagen type 2 into your routine.

What are the Side Effects of Type 2 Collagen?

Like everything else that you can ingest medicinally, type 2 collagen comes with some side effects. Many are mild and will go away over time. Some of these side effects of using type 2 collagen orally are:

• Bloating
• Burping
• Weight loss
• Ulcers in the mouth
• Vomiting and/or nausea

A person who is allergic to chicken or eggs may have an allergic reaction to taking type 2 collagen peptides.

Who Shouldn’t Use Type 2 Collagen?

Because type 2 collagen hasn’t been diligently tested in pregnant or breastfeeding women, a pregnant person’s physician may recommend that they steer clear of the peptide medication until they have finished breastfeeding their baby.

Type 2 collagen is derived from chickens, so anybody who has an allergy to chicken and/or eggs may be advised not to use it.

Children are generally not considered the best candidates for using type 2 collagen peptides orally, but under the direct eye of a physician, it is possible to implement into their routine.

If none of these issues apply to you, it is likely safe for you to take type 2 collagen. The typical dosage is 2.5mg of type 2 collagen daily for up to 24 weeks. Depending on your individual condition and the recommendations made by your physician, this dosage could differ from what you’re actually prescribed.

If you’re experiencing pain and inflammation due to a diminished amount of type 2 collagen, you should confer with your physician regarding adding it to your medical routine. Type 2 collagen is essential for the development and maintenance of healthy cartilage, so it’s absolutely worth taking into consideration. Healthier joints make for a healthier life!