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UC-II (Undenatured Type II Collagen) Dosage Guide

Evidence:Moderate
·

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

General Dosage

40mg UC-II daily, taken on an empty stomach (important for oral tolerance mechanism)

Maximum dose: 40mg daily is the studied dose; higher doses have not shown additional benefit and may impair oral tolerance

Dosage Recommendations

General recommendation: 40mg UC-II daily, taken on an empty stomach (important for oral tolerance mechanism)

Timing: Take on an empty stomach, ideally before bed or first thing in the morning — food may denature the collagen and reduce efficacy

Dosage by Condition

Knee osteoarthritis
40mg daily on empty stomachModerate
Exercise-related joint discomfort
40mg daily on empty stomachModerate
General joint support
40mg daily on empty stomachModerate

Upper limit: 40mg daily is the studied dose; higher doses have not shown additional benefit and may impair oral tolerance

Timing & Absorption

Take on an empty stomach, ideally before bed or first thing in the morning — food may denature the collagen and reduce efficacy

Can be taken with or without food.

Full UC-II (Undenatured Type II Collagen) Guide

References

  1. RCTLugo JP, Saiber ZM, Yao X, et al. (2013). Undenatured type II collagen (UC-II) for joint support: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy volunteers. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. DOI PubMed
  2. RCTLugo JP, Saiber ZM, Lai JN, et al. (2016). Efficacy and tolerability of an undenatured type II collagen supplement in modulating knee osteoarthritis symptoms: a multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutrition Journal. DOI PubMed
  3. RCTCrowley DC, Lau FC, Sharma P, et al. (2009). Safety and efficacy of undenatured type II collagen in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: a clinical trial. International Journal of Medical Sciences. DOI PubMed
  4. RCTSchön C, Knaub K, Alt W, Durkee S, et al. (2022). UC-II Undenatured Type II Collagen for Knee Joint Flexibility: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study.. Journal of integrative and complementary medicine. DOI PubMed