A 12-week pilot clinical trial, published in 2025 in the journal Scientific Reports, evaluated a supplement with type II collagen, glucosamine and chondroitin in 54 adults with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee, and saw clear improvements in symptoms and quality of life according to a study in Scientific reports .
People taking the supplement reported less stiffness, improved ability to do sport or recreation and a better perception of their day-to-day life. The improvement was progressive over the 12 weeks, while in the placebo group progress slowed after a promising start. These data are relevant for those living with chronic joint discomfort who are looking for support options based on physiology, not quick promises.
For people with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee, this study suggests that a combination of structural cartilage nutrients may be associated with less stiffness and easier movement. The benefit was especially visible in physical activities and overall perception of quality of life.
Although this is a pilot study and not a definitive test, it reinforces the idea that taking care of joints also means nourishing their internal tissues. The practical message is clear, specific nutrition can be part of a comprehensive strategy along with adapted exercise and weight management.
What this clinical trial in people with osteoarthritis of the knee did
The study was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, meaning that neither participants nor researchers knew who was taking the actual supplement. Fifty-four adults with mild to moderate osteoarthritis knee pain participated and 52 completed the 12 weeks.
The KOOS questionnaire, a validated tool that assesses symptoms, pain, function in daily life, sport and recreation, and knee-related quality of life, was used. Simple physical tests, such as repeatedly getting up from a chair, and general health questionnaires were also performed.
Statistically significant improvements in symptoms, ability to perform sport or recreational activities and quality of life were observed in the group taking the collagen type II, glucosamine and chondroitin supplement. Stiffness was significantly reduced. Pain was reduced in both groups, indicating a significant placebo effect, but the overall outcome favoured the supplemented group.
Blood markers of inflammation and cartilage degradation did not change clearly, probably because of the small sample size. Even so, safety was very good and no relevant problems associated with the use of the supplement were reported.
How collagen and hyaluronic acid relate to articular cartilage
Osteoarthritis of the knee is characterised by progressive wear and tear of the cartilage and changes in the surrounding bone. Cartilage is an elastic tissue that cushions impact and allows bones to glide without friction. Its matrix consists mainly of collagen and water-retaining molecules such as proteoglycans and hyaluronic acid.
Collagen provides the supporting structure, a kind of internal scaffolding that gives strength and shape. Hyaluronic acid contributes to the hydration and viscosity of synovial fluid, the fluid that lubricates the joint. When this combination of structure and hydration is lost, stiffness, popping and pain on movement occur.
Supplements with collagen, either type I or type II, provide peptides that the body can reuse to synthesise its own collagen. In the case of the study, the focus was on knee cartilage, but the structural logic extends to other joints. Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, has been studied mainly in infiltrations, although its oral use is also being investigated to support connective tissue hydration.
The combination of structural nutrients, such as collagen and components that promote hydration and connective tissue integrity, is aligned with this cartilage physiology. The goal is not to strain the joint, but to provide raw material and a more favourable environment for the tissues to maintain their function.
Lifestyle habits that support knee and joint health
Beyond any supplements, joint health is built every day with movement, proper body weight and a diet that takes care of connective tissue. Low-impact exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming or stationary cycling, helps to keep cartilage nourished and strengthen the muscles that stabilise the knee.
Controlling body weight reduces the mechanical load on joints, especially knees and hips. Every extra kilo translates into more pressure with every step. Moderate weight loss can significantly relieve the strain on the knees.
In the diet, it is best to prioritise quality protein sources, which provide amino acids for your own collagen, along with fruit and vegetables rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants involved in the synthesis and protection of connective tissue. Staying well hydrated is also key for the synovial fluid to retain its lubricating function.
Finally, respecting rest times between efforts, avoiding repetitive high-impact movements and adapting the type of exercise to each stage of life are decisions that, together, help to preserve mobility and live better with osteoarthritis.
How Nutribiolite’s collagen complex fits into this joint approach
Nutribiolite’s Hydrolyzed Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Bamboo Extract, Vitamins and Minerals Food Supplement is formulated as a nutritional support for connective tissues, including cartilage, skin and bone. Although the clinical trial analysed uses type II collagen with glucosamine and chondroitin, it shares a central idea with this product, to nourish the joint structure from within.
This complex provides hydrolysed type I collagen, the predominant form in skin, tendons and bones, which the body can fragment and reuse in its own collagen fibres. It also includes hyaluronic acid, which is related to connective tissue hydration and joint fluid viscosity, consistent with the physiological pathway involved in osteoarthritis of the knee.
The presence of minerals such as magnesium and vitamins such as vitamin C adds an additional level of support. Magnesium is involved in muscle function and hundreds of enzymatic reactions related to connective tissue metabolism. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, acting as a cofactor in the enzymes that stabilise its structure.
Bamboo extract provides silica, a mineral associated with connective tissue integrity and the architecture of collagen and elastin. This combination, hydrolysed type I collagen, hyaluronic acid, plant silica, vitamins and minerals, provides a broad nutritional base for those who wish to care for their joints and other supporting tissues as part of a healthy routine.
The study in osteoarthritis of the knee reinforces the interest in strategies that include collagen and structural components of cartilage. While the specific formulation of Nutribiolite is different, it shares key ingredients, such as collagen and extracellular matrix support, and is along the same lines of using specific nutrients to support joint wellness on a daily basis.
A supplement of hydrolysed collagen, hyaluronic acid, bamboo extract, vitamins and minerals for adults who wish to physiologically support their joints and other connective tissues as part of an active lifestyle routine.
Final summary, science, habits and nutritional support for your joints
The clinical trial in knee osteoarthritis shows that a combination of structural cartilage nutrients may be associated with less stiffness and better quality of life. It is not a stand-alone solution, but one piece of an approach that includes tailored exercise, healthy weight and a diet that cares for connective tissue.
Formulations such as Hydrolyzed Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Bamboo Extract, Vitamins and Minerals Food Supplement fit into this vision, offering specific nutrients that the body already uses to build and maintain its joints. Integrating this type of support into a consistent routine can be a sensible strategy for those who want to take care of their mobility over the long term.
This content is informative and is not a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
What did the study on joint supplementation in osteoarthritis of the knee show?
The clinical trial in adults with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee found that supplementation with type II collagen, glucosamine and chondroitin was associated with less stiffness, better function in sport or recreation and improved quality of life versus placebo, over a 12-week period.
How the study is similar to Nutribiolite collagen complex
Both approaches use structural nutrients related to cartilage and connective tissue. The study focused on type II collagen with glucosamine and chondroitin, while Nutribiolite’s product combines hydrolysed type I collagen, hyaluronic acid, bamboo silica, vitamins and minerals, all linked to joint, skin and bone integrity.
Who a collagen and hyaluronic acid supplement may make sense for
It may be an option for adults who already take care of their diet and physical activity and who want additional nutritional support for their joints and other connective tissues. It is of particular interest in stages of increased mechanical stress or joint ageing.
How long does it usually take for joint supplements to show effects?
Studies in osteoarthritis of the knee usually assess periods of several weeks or months. In this trial, improvements were observed over 12 weeks. In practice, consistent use accompanied by good movement habits and a healthy weight is key.
What role do minerals and vitamins play in a collagen complex?
Minerals such as magnesium and vitamins such as vitamin C are involved in the synthesis and maintenance of collagen and connective tissue. In a formulation with hydrolysed collagen, hyaluronic acid and bamboo silica, these micronutrients provide additional support for the physiological processes that support joints, skin and bones.
