What Is Collagen Type 3 Good For: Benefits and More

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Collagen Type 3?
3. What Is Collagen Type 3 Good For?
4. The Synergy Between Type 1 and Type 3
5. Why Your Collagen Levels Decline
6. How to Get More Type 3 Collagen
7. The BUBS Naturals Difference: Quality and Trust
8. Practical Tips for Using Collagen Type 3
9. Who Should Prioritize Type 3 Collagen?
10. The Mission Behind the Science
11. Conclusion
12. FAQ

Quick Answer: Type 3 collagen is primarily responsible for the structural integrity of your internal organs, blood vessels, and muscles. It supports gut health by maintaining the intestinal lining and works alongside Type 1 collagen to improve skin elasticity and wound healing.

Introduction

If you’ve spent any time looking into supplements, you’ve likely seen "Type 1 and 3" splashed across collagen labels. Most people know that collagen is the "glue" that holds the body together, but many don't realize that not all collagen is identical. While Type 1 gets most of the credit for glowing skin and strong hair, Type 3 is the unsung hero working behind the scenes in your gut, your heart, and your muscles.

At BUBS Naturals, we believe that understanding what goes into your body is just as important as the effort you put into your training. If you want a clean way to add collagen to your routine, our Collagen Peptides are a simple option. Collagen isn't just a beauty supplement; it’s a functional protein that supports the very architecture of your physical performance. In this guide, we will break down exactly what Type 3 collagen does, why it is vital for your internal health, and how it works in tandem with other proteins to keep you moving.

This article covers the biological role of Type 3 collagen, its specific benefits for the digestive and cardiovascular systems, and how to ensure you are getting a high-quality source to support your active lifestyle.

What is Collagen Type 3?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, accounting for roughly 30% of your total protein mass. It is a fibrous, structural protein made of amino acids—specifically glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids link together to form a triple helix, a structure that provides incredible tensile strength to your tissues.

While there are at least 28 different types of collagen identified by scientists, Type 3 is the second most abundant variety in your body. It is classified as a fibrillar collagen, meaning it forms long, thin fibers that create a mesh-like "extracellular matrix." This matrix acts as a scaffolding for your cells. If you want a broader look at collagen's role across the body, see our guide on what collagen is good for in the human body.

Unlike Type 1, which is densely packed and found in "harder" tissues like bone and tendons, Type 3 is found in "soft" or hollow organs. It is a major component of the skin, the walls of your blood vessels, and the lining of your intestinal tract. Because it is often found alongside Type 1, the two are frequently paired in supplements to provide a full spectrum of structural support.

What Is Collagen Type 3 Good For?

Type 3 collagen serves a very specific set of functions that differ from the joint-focused benefits of Type 2 or the bone-focused benefits of Type 1. If you are an athlete, a veteran, or someone simply trying to age with strength, Type 3 is essential for the following areas.

Supporting the Cardiovascular System

One of the most critical roles of Type 3 collagen is maintaining the elasticity and strength of your arteries and blood vessels. Your heart pumps blood at high pressure, and your arteries need to be able to expand and contract without tearing or becoming rigid.

Type 3 collagen provides the structural framework for these vessels. Research has shown that a deficiency in Type 3 collagen can lead to fragile blood vessels. In extreme genetic cases, such as certain types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, the lack of Type 3 collagen can lead to vascular complications. For the average person, maintaining healthy levels of this protein supports overall heart health and arterial integrity as we age. For a deeper look at the big-picture benefits, read about collagen benefits in the body.

Maintaining Gut Health and the Intestinal Lining

If you’ve ever heard of "leaky gut" or general digestive distress, you may already be familiar with the importance of the intestinal barrier. Your gut lining is a thin but incredibly strong wall that allows nutrients to pass into the bloodstream while keeping toxins and undigested food particles out.

Type 3 collagen is a primary component of this lining. It helps repair and rebuild the connective tissue that makes up the gastrointestinal tract. Many people who prioritize gut health use collagen specifically for its amino acid profile. Glycine and glutamine, both found in collagen, are known to support the cells that line the intestines. By reinforcing this barrier, Type 3 collagen can help support overall digestive comfort and nutrient absorption. To support that process, it helps to understand how the body produces more collagen naturally.

Key Takeaway: Type 3 collagen acts as the "inner scaffolding" for your most vital systems. While Type 1 builds the "outer" you (skin and bones), Type 3 builds the "inner" you (gut and heart).

Skin Elasticity and Wound Healing

While Type 1 is the heavy hitter for skin volume, Type 3 is essential for skin texture and the early stages of wound healing. When you get a cut or an injury, your body often rushes to produce Type 3 collagen first because it forms a flexible, quick-growing mesh that helps close the wound. Over time, the body replaces much of that Type 3 with the tougher Type 1.

As we age, our skin’s ability to produce both types of collagen decreases. This leads to the characteristic thinning and sagging of the skin. Because Type 3 is found in the dermis (the middle layer of the skin), it helps maintain the "bounce" and hydration that keeps skin looking resilient.

Muscle and Organ Structure

Type 3 collagen is also found in your muscles and the connective tissues that surround your internal organs. It provides the "give" that muscles need to stretch and contract during exercise. While it doesn't build muscle fibers in the way that whey protein might, it provides the connective framework that allows those muscles to function properly and stay attached to the rest of your system.

The Synergy Between Type 1 and Type 3

You will almost always find Type 1 and Type 3 sold together. This isn't just a marketing tactic; it reflects how these proteins exist in nature. In your skin and blood vessels, Type 1 and Type 3 fibers are interwoven.

Think of Type 1 as the sturdy wooden beams in a house and Type 3 as the flexible wiring and plumbing. You need both for the structure to be functional. Type 1 provides the strength to resist tension, while Type 3 provides the elasticity and the ability to repair quickly.

When you supplement with a high-quality product like our Collagen Peptides, you are providing your body with the raw materials to support both. Because our peptides are grass-fed and pasture-raised, they contain the specific amino acid profile required to stimulate the body's own production of these two critical types.

Myth: You should take Type 1 and Type 3 at different times for better absorption. Fact: Type 1 and Type 3 are naturally found together in bovine sources and are processed by the body through the same pathways. Taking them together is actually more reflective of how your body uses them in your skin and organs.

Why Your Collagen Levels Decline

It is a biological reality that collagen production begins to slow down as early as your mid-20s. By the time you reach 40, your body may be losing about 1% of its collagen every year. Several factors can accelerate this process, making supplementation and lifestyle choices even more important.

1. UV Exposure: Too much sun breaks down the collagen fibers in your skin, specifically targeting the Type 1 and 3 fibers in the dermis.
2. High-Sugar Diets: Sugar can attach to proteins in the blood to form new molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These molecules damage nearby collagen, making it brittle and weak.
3. Smoking: Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your tissues and directly interferes with the synthesis of new collagen.
4. Aging: Natural hormonal changes, particularly in women after menopause, can lead to a significant drop in collagen production.

While we can’t stop the clock, we can provide our bodies with the "building blocks" necessary to slow the rate of decline and support the repair of existing tissues.

How to Get More Type 3 Collagen

You cannot simply eat a piece of collagen and have it "stick" to your arteries. Your body must break down the protein into smaller parts first.

Collagen Peptides (Hydrolyzed Collagen)

The most effective way to supplement is through hydrolyzed collagen, also known as collagen peptides. "Hydrolyzed" means the long chains of protein have been broken down into shorter chains of amino acids using water (hydrolysis).

This process is vital because whole collagen molecules are too large for the human gut to absorb efficiently. Our Collagen Peptides are hydrolyzed to ensure maximum bioavailability. This means the protein is "pre-digested" into a form that your body can easily move into the bloodstream and send to the tissues that need it most.

Dietary Sources

You can also support your collagen levels through your diet. Bone broth is the most famous source, as simmering animal bones over long periods extracts the collagen and minerals. If you want a simple supplement option, explore our Boosts collection.

Other foods that support collagen production include:

• Vitamin C-rich fruits: Oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers are essential because Vitamin C is a co-factor for the enzymes that "knot" the collagen helix together. If you aren't getting enough, consider taking a Vitamin C supplement or eating a piece of fruit alongside your collagen.
• Proline-rich foods: Egg whites, dairy, and mushrooms provide the specific amino acids used in the triple helix.
• Copper and Zinc: Found in shellfish, nuts, and seeds, these minerals play a supporting role in the formation of the collagen matrix.

The BUBS Naturals Difference: Quality and Trust

When you're looking for a supplement to support your gut, heart, and skin, the source matters. Not all collagen is created equal. Many brands use fillers, artificial flavors, or low-quality sourcing that can negate the benefits you’re looking for.

We do things differently. Our Collagen Peptides are sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle. This ensures a clean, "no BS" product that is free from hormones and antibiotics. Perhaps most importantly for our community of athletes and veterans, our collagen is NSF Certified for Sport. This means it has undergone rigorous third-party testing to ensure it contains exactly what is on the label and is free from over 280 banned substances.

Whether you're mixing it into your morning coffee or a post-workout shake, our powder is designed to dissolve effortlessly. We believe that a supplement should fit into your life, not make it more complicated.

Practical Tips for Using Collagen Type 3

To get the most out of your Type 3 collagen support, consistency is the name of the game. You won't see results from a single scoop; it’s about the cumulative effect of providing your body with steady nutrition.

• Make it a Habit: Add a scoop of collagen to your morning routine. Because our peptides are flavorless, they won't ruin the taste of your coffee or tea.
• Pair with Vitamin C: If you aren't getting enough Vitamin C in your diet, consider taking a supplement or eating a piece of fruit alongside your collagen. This helps your body actually use the peptides to build new fibers.
• Stay Hydrated: Collagen fibers need water to maintain their elasticity and function, especially in the skin and joints. Our Hydrate or Die electrolytes can help ensure your cells are actually holding onto the water you drink.
• Watch Your Recovery: If you are recovering from a hard training session or an injury, your body’s demand for Type 3 collagen increases as it works to repair muscle tissue and skin.

Bottom line: Type 3 collagen is a "hidden" workhorse that supports your internal organs, vascular health, and gut lining. Combining it with Type 1 via a high-quality peptide powder is the most effective way to support your body's structural integrity from the inside out.

Who Should Prioritize Type 3 Collagen?

While everyone can benefit from better protein intake, certain groups of people should pay special attention to Type 3 collagen.

Athletes and High-Performers

If you put your body through the wringer with heavy lifting, long-distance running, or high-intensity training, your connective tissues are under constant stress. Type 3 collagen supports the flexibility of your muscles and the strength of your vascular system, which is responsible for delivering oxygen to those muscles.

Those Focusing on Gut Health

If you struggle with digestive issues or are trying to maintain a healthy inflammatory response in your gut, the structural support of Type 3 collagen is invaluable. It helps provide the foundation for a resilient intestinal barrier.

Aging Adults

As we lose collagen naturally, the "soft" tissues of our bodies often suffer first. This can manifest as digestive changes or less elastic skin. Supplementing early can help provide the raw materials your body needs to maintain its youthful "bounce" and internal health.

The Mission Behind the Science

Everything we do at BUBS Naturals is rooted in a sense of purpose. Our brand was founded to honor the legacy of Glen "BUB" Doherty, a Navy SEAL and a hero who lived life to the fullest. He believed in staying fit, staying curious, and helping others. You can read more about our 10% Rule.

That’s why we don’t just settle for "good enough" ingredients. We want our community to have the best tools available to pursue their own adventures. Whether you're hiking a mountain, training for a marathon, or just trying to feel your best throughout the workday, we provide the clean, science-backed supplements to help you get there.

In keeping with the spirit of service, we donate 10% of all our profits to veteran-focused charities. When you choose our products to support your health, you are also helping us support the men and women who have served our country. It’s a small way we can keep BUB’s legacy of "doing good" alive.

Conclusion

Type 3 collagen is much more than a "beauty" ingredient. It is a fundamental structural protein that safeguards your heart, supports your digestive system, and maintains the flexibility of your muscles and skin. By understanding what Type 3 collagen is good for, you can make more informed decisions about your nutrition and recovery.

Remember these three pillars for better collagen health:

• Source matters: Choose grass-fed, pasture-raised, and third-party tested peptides.
• Synergy is key: Look for products that combine Type 1 and Type 3 for full-body support.
• Consistency wins: Support your body daily to see the long-term benefits in your gut, skin, and overall vitality.

Your body is the only one you get, and it’s built on a foundation of collagen. Treat that foundation with respect, fuel it with clean ingredients, and keep moving forward.

"The best way to honor a legacy is to live your own life with purpose and strength." — The BUBS Team

FAQ

What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 3 collagen?

Type 1 collagen is the most abundant and provides structure to "harder" tissues like bones, tendons, and the outer layers of skin. Type 3 collagen is found in "softer" areas like the intestinal lining, muscles, and blood vessel walls, providing elasticity and internal structural support.

Can I get Type 3 collagen from food?

Yes, you can get Type 3 collagen from animal sources, with bone broth and organ meats being the most concentrated options. However, because food-based collagen is often difficult for the body to break down, many people use hydrolyzed collagen peptides for better absorption and convenience.

Is Type 3 collagen good for gut health?

Yes, Type 3 collagen is one of the primary structural components of the intestinal lining. It helps reinforce the connective tissue in the digestive tract, which may support gut barrier function and overall digestive comfort for people dealing with "leaky gut" or similar issues.

How long does it take to see benefits from Type 3 collagen?

While every body is different, most research suggests that it takes consistent daily use for about 4 to 12 weeks to notice significant changes. Skin hydration and gut comfort are often noticed sooner, while changes in arterial health or deep tissue repair may take longer to manifest.