The present invention concerns a physiologically active composition which contains an enzymatically hydrolysed collagen as the active component I and at least one component of the non-vitamin type having anti-oxidative and/or anti-inflammatory properties as the active component II. Collagen of animal origin that is soluble in cold water comes into particular consideration as component I and a fermentation broth or a plant extract comes into particular consideration as component II. This composition which is designed in particular as a food supplement or functional food can be used to prevent inflammatory and/or degenerative symptoms in particular with a chronic course such as for example arthritis and arthroses or to successfully treat these symptoms. The claimed composition can be used above all by professional, leisure and recreational athletes who suffer in particular from strained joint functions.