Downsides and side effects of collagen supplements People with allergies to these foods should avoid collagen supplements made with these ingredients. Some people report nausea and bloating when taking collagen supplements, but research has not consistently shown these as side effects ( 20 ).
Collagen is generally considered to be a safe and nontoxic daily supplement for healthy individuals, and most people won't experience adverse side effects.
Collagen supplements may not be safe for: People with fish, shellfish, or egg allergies (collagen supplements may contain these allergens as ingredients)16. People with a Kosher or Halal diet. People with a vegetarian or vegan diet.
When you have too much collagen, your skin can stretch, thicken, and harden. It also can cause damage to internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.
Additionally, some people may be allergic to collagen supplements. If you experience any itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after taking collagen supplements, it's important to stop taking them and see a doctor immediately.
Collagen peptides have been safely used in doses up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 months. Side effects are rare.
It's unclear whether collagen peptides actually help, but studies show that taking them typically doesn't cause any harm. That said, it's always important to consult your doctor before taking any new supplement.
Taking collagen can help because it is rich in glycine, an amino acid that has enormous healing and detoxification capabilities for the body. Glycine helps reduce damage as your liver processes toxins. This study even showed that glycine reduces liver damage and provide a protective effect on the liver long-term.
One key difference between collagen and collagen peptides is that one is a broken-down form of the other. Collagen peptides are made by breaking animal collagen down through hydrolysis. So, while collagen is a complete protein, collagen peptides are fragments of that protein.
If we discontinue collagen for a long time, troublesome problems with joints or lack of skin firmness can quickly return. Some people, instead of completely giving up our collagen, drink shots less frequently, e.g. every few days. It is also a great way to maintain the positive effects of its operation.
Collagen contains hydroxyproline amino acids, which can increase amounts of the waste product oxalate in the body. Oxalate can cause kidney stones, but the amount of hydroxyproline in collagen is unlikely to significantly increase your risk.
Improvements in skin, nails, muscle and joint health may become noticeable after three to six months of regular collagen supplementation, but results varied across scientific studies. Results may take longer depending on personal factors including age, nutritional status and overall health.
Liver fibrosis is characterized by accumulation of excess extracellular matrix components, including type I collagen, which disrupts liver microcirculation and leads to injury.
"Collagen is what keeps our skin from sagging, giving us that plump, youthful look," says dermatologist Dr. Ohara Aivaz. Your body naturally makes collagen, but this production decreases with age.
Collagen provides structure to your arteries, which keep blood flowing to and from your heart. Studies have shown that taking collagen supplements can reduce artery stiffness and increase levels of “good” HDL cholesterol in the body. This means it can help reduce your risk of developing heart conditions.
Hormone conclusion:
Collagen has minimal effect on hormones since it contains subtypes that are found in our bodies. Most people tolerate it well and it is extremely bioavailable.
It balances blood pressure
Collagen may also boost levels of nitric oxide, a compound that enhances blood flow and lowers blood pressure. In one study of people with mild hypertension, a collagen supplement significantly decreased blood pressure in 4 weeks.
Oral intake of clinically effective doses of collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid restores skin hydration and elasticity, reducing eye wrinkle depth up to 20%. Scientifically reviewed by Dr. Gary Gonzalez, MD, in May 2022.
Research has shown that supplemental collagen—especially marine collagen peptides—can reduce signs of wrinkles, tighten loosening skin, and improve skin elasticity and hydration.
Collagen is an incredibly important protein that keeps your tissues and bones together. Specifically for your skin, collagen helps give your skin structure and elasticity, or that famous “bounce.” So, in theory, boosting your skin's collagen levels — or preventing its loss — would help you look younger.
Studies have shown that supplementing with collagen peptides — broken down collagen that's easier for your body to absorb — may be beneficial for older people and promote skin and bone health during aging.
Many of the studies available suggest that you'd be able to noticeably see improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and density anywhere between 6 and 12 weeks of regular collagen supplementation.
When you stop taking collagen supplements, there won't be any side effects (thankfully). But, the most important thing to note is that any health benefits you may have experienced while taking the supplement will eventually fade away. The reason being, your body naturally synthesizes collagen.
Taking a collagen supplement will not cause you to gain weight. In fact, it can help support you on your weight loss journey along with proper diet and exercise. Collagen is beneficial to your bones, muscles, hair, skin, and nails. It also helps to improve your heart health.