Cartilage and Collagen

What is it?

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

Science Ratings

Health Concerns

Osteoarthritis

Karposi's sarcoma (skin cancer)

Prostate cancer (shark cartilage)

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 a 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. Gelatine 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 gelatine, 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
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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.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.

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