Is Collagen Safe?

In short, yes! Collagen is a fantastic supplement to add to your regimen if you’re seeking any one of a variety of health benefits.

 

As with any type of supplement, a few minimal side effects are possible, such as heartburn. It should be noted that collagen supplements may not be appropriate for people allergic to eggs, shellfish, or fish, as supplemental collagen may be derived from any one of these.

 

However, you can rest assured that your food allergies will not be triggered by our bovine collagen supplement, which contains only collagen sourced from pasture-raised and grass-fed cows.  

 

Is Collagen Safe for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?

 

During pregnancy, your body has increased nutritional needs. This also includes protein! Most healthy women typically require an additional 25 grams of protein each day throughout their pregnancy.

 

One 2016 study found that hydrolyzed collagen supplementation was safe during pregnancy, and also increased the serum protein levels of participants. This indicates improved protein status, which has been associated with better pregnancy outcomes.

 

Similarly, many women choose to continue collagen supplementation after they give birth, and this practice is also safe during breastfeeding.  

 

Scoop of collagen powder on a metal spoon against a wooden table background

 

Is Collagen Safe for Diabetics?

 

When medication and diet alone are not enough to control blood sugar in diabetics, they often turn to supplements for help. If you are diabetic and struggling to maintain glycemic control, collagen may be the answer!

 

A 2010 study concluded that collagen peptide supplementation not only decreased indicators of diabetic control (including fasting blood glucose and HbA1c) in type 2 diabetics, but also improved cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol and triglycerides.

 

This is especially noteworthy because many diabetics also have high blood pressure, putting them at an increased risk of developing heart disease and other disorders.

 

Is Collagen Safe for Older Adults?

 

As we age, our body loses its collagen stores, which can prompt issues such as joint pain and osteoarthritis. Many older adults would prefer to take a supplement rather than pain medication, and collagen is an excellent choice.

 

A systematic review conducted in 2016 including 9 different studies determined that hydrolyzed collagen supplementation has the ability to maintain bone strength and protect bones and cartilage from breakdown, reduce joint pain in the hips and knees, and maintain appropriate plasma protein levels (indicating adequate body protein stores).

 

One study also specifically researched the safety of collagen supplementation in the elderly, and found that the group receiving collagen supplementation showed no side effects after a period of 6 months, while reporting improvement in pain symptoms in the back and upper body.

 

Supplemental collagen has also been shown to improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, and even prompted total remission in a few study participants.  

 

Scoop of collagen powder in a plastic spoon

 

Is Collagen Safe for People with Digestive Problems?

 

If you suffer from any type of digestive disorder, you might be hesitant to try supplements because you worry that they could trigger symptoms.

 

Fear not – collagen peptides are not only safe for your digestive system – they can even help improve gut health by promoting tissue regeneration in the gastrointestinal tract.

 

Individuals with inflammatory bowel syndrome have been found to have lower levels of serum collagen, and research supports the use of supplemental collagen to raise these levels and relieve symptoms.

 

Whether you have inflammatory bowel disease, leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome, or another digestive disorder, collagen may be a good addition to your treatment protocol.

 

The Bottom Line

 

Regardless of what purpose you intend to use it for, collagen supplementation is both safe and effective. As with any supplement, we recommend that you consult your doctor prior to starting if you have any medical conditions or other health concerns.

 

If you’re ready to add collagen peptides to your nutrition regimen, our Naked Collagen is safe and provides numerous health benefits.