Cartilage and Collagen

What does it do?

Cartilage, derived from shark, bovine (cow), and other animal sources, is a type of connective tissue composed of mucopolysaccharides (including chondroitin sulfate), protein substances, calcium, sulfur, and collagen. Collagen is one of the proteins found in most connective tissues, including cartilage, bone, and skin. Gelatin is a form of collagen commonly used in foods, and preliminary reports suggest that consuming gelatin can improve the structure and health of the hair and nails.1 2 3 4 Collagen hydrolysate is produced by enzymatically breaking down bovine gelatin to smaller protein fragments.

Where is it found?

Cartilage is derived from either sharks or cows. Collagen is derived from either cows or chickens.

Cartilage and collagen have been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating Health Concerns
2Stars

Osteoarthritis
1Star

Karposi's sarcoma (skin cancer)

Prostate cancer (shark cartilage)
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Since they are not essential nutrients, neither cartilage nor collagen are associated with deficiencies.

How much is usually taken?

Bovine cartilage is typically recommended at 3 grams three times per day. Shark cartilage is sometimes taken in much higher amounts (e.g., 60 to 100 grams per day orally or by enema). These amounts are based on animal and anecdotal evidence and their safety and efficacy have not been confirmed by controlled clinical trials. Not only is toxicity information on this amount of shark cartilage lacking, but the amount of calcium in this amount of shark cartilage exceeds the 2 to 2.5 grams per day that is commonly considered to be the upper limit of safe intake. Type II collagen, when used for its effects on the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis, is used in very small amounts, from 0.02 mg to 10 mg per day. Gelatin and collagen hydrolysate is recommended at 7 to 10 grams per day.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Reports have suggested that some people should not use a cartilage supplement. This concern is based only on theory, not clinical evidence. This would include those people with cardiovascular disease, women who are planning to be or are pregnant, nursing mothers, anyone having or having had surgery within 30 days, and athletes training intensely. None of these concerns have been proven in clinical trials, however. Because shark cartilage contains calcium, people who ingest large amounts of shark cartilage (60 to 100 grams per day) may be consuming excessive amounts of this mineral. However, no cases of calcium toxicity resulting from the ingestion of shark cartilage have been reported.

While use of gelatin, collagen hydrolysate, or type II collagen has not resulted in any reports of serious side effects, people with known sensitivities to chicken or beef should consult a doctor before using them.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with cartilage.

References

1. Scala J, Hollies N, Sucher KP. Effect of daily gelatin ingestion on human scalp hair. Nutr Rep Int 1976;13:579-92.

2. Morganti P, Randazzo SD. Nutrition and hair. J Appl Cosmetol1984;2:41-9.

3. Tyson TL. The effect of gelatin on fragile finger nails. Invest Dermatol1950;14:323-5.

4. Rosenberg SW. Further studies in the use of gelatin in the treatment of brittle nails.Arch Dermatol1957;76:330-5.