In this article we take a closer look at patented hydrolysed Collagen, FORTIGEL specifically, which has been shown to be an innovative support for the functionality of cartilage tissue.
Frequency of cartilage lesions
Lesions of the articular cartilage are a very common problem, with a significant incidence across different age groups.
An analysis1 of 25,124 knee arthroscopies performed between 1989 and 2004 highlighted the presence of cartilage lesions in 60% of patients, most frequently located on the patellar surface (36%) and on the medial femoral condyle (34%). The Outerbridge classification, which sets out 4 degrees of damage, was used to assess the cartilage lesions:
- GRADE I: soft, oedematous cartilage.
- GRADE II: superficial lesion with a diameter ≤ 1.5 cm.
- GRADE III: full-thickness lesion with a diameter > 1.5 cm.
- GRADE IV: exposure of the subchondral bone.
According to this classification as many as 42% of the lesions were grade II.
These data underline how important it is, and how it should not be underestimated, to adopt effective strategies for maintaining and regenerating cartilage. We will talk about patented hydrolysed Collagen, FORTIGEL specifically, which has been shown to be an innovative support for the functionality of cartilage tissue.
What is FORTIGEL?
FORTIGEL2 is a formulation based on Bioactive Collagen Peptides, derived from bovine collagen, obtained through a patented enzymatic hydrolysis process. These peptides, with an average size of 3 kDa, have been shown to act directly by stimulating the metabolism and the activity of chondrocytes, promoting the synthesis of the cartilage matrix (scientific details in the following sections).
In this way the FORTIGEL formulation can support the regeneration of articular cartilage, encouraging the production of type II collagen, an essential component for joint strength and flexibility.
Benefits of taking FORTIGEL orally
Taking FORTIGEL orally has been shown to bring significant benefits for joint wellbeing. Clinical studies have in fact shown that its peptides are absorbed at intestinal level and are then directed to the joints, where they carry out their function of stimulating tissue metabolism.
- A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study carried out at Penn State University (USA) involved 147 athletes who had experienced activity-related joint pain. The participants were divided into two groups: one received collagen from FORTIGEL® as a food supplement (5 g a day), while the other received a placebo. After 24 weeks it was interesting to observe a statistically significant difference in both pain perception and mobility between the treated participants and those in the control group. In addition, a specific analysis conducted on a subgroup of participants with knee pain showed an even more pronounced reduction in pain in the group treated with collagen hydrolysate compared with placebo3.
- Another single-centre, prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, conducted by the Tufts Medical Center in collaboration with Harvard University, documented an increase in the density of proteoglycans in hyaline cartilage, confirming the regenerative efficacy of the bioactive collagen peptides from FORTIGEL4.
- In addition, at the University of Freiburg in Germany, a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind study involved 139 young adults with activity-related knee pain. The group treated with 5 grams of FORTIGEL for 12 weeks reported a significant reduction in activity-related joint pain, accompanied by a decrease in the use of secondary therapies such as physiotherapy or ice packs5.
These results therefore highlight the potential of FORTIGEL not only for supporting cartilage regeneration, but also for relief from the pain experienced.
Contraindications of FORTIGEL
FORTIGEL is generally well tolerated, but like any supplement it may not be suitable for everyone, owing to individual sensitivity to the product.
Conclusions: FORTIGEL Hydrolysed Collagen and cartilage
The bioactive Collagen peptides from FORTIGEL represent a promising solution for maintaining joint wellbeing, supporting cartilage regeneration and acting positively on joint pain. Its efficacy, demonstrated by numerous studies, makes this patented ingredient a valuable ally for physiotherapists, orthopaedic specialists and osteopaths who seek to offer their patients innovative options based on scientific evidence.
For this reason, Salugea has decided to combine the bioactive collagen peptides from FORTIGEL with other carefully selected functional ingredients, such as Chondroitin Sulphate, N-Acetyl-Glucosamine, Vitamin C, Manganese, Copper and Selenium.
These active ingredients, contained in the Cartilagea formulation, work in synergy to offer a supplement made up of 100% natural elements, specifically designed to give targeted and effective support to the wellbeing of cartilage and joints.
