Collagen supplements help reverse the natural loss of collagen over time. But they must be prescribed before by a specialist doctor.
It is the most abundant protein produced by the human body. Collagen has a structure in the form of fibers to give consistency to the epidermis, hair, bones, tendons, cartilage, and teeth. In addition, it is also found in the tissue that surrounds and protects muscles and internal organs.
Above all, The supplements are used to prevent and treat conditions related to the joints, bones, and skin. However, they have some risks… Do you want to know what they are?
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Types of Collagen Supplements
According to the results of an investigation published by the Journal of Medicines in Dermatology, the benefits of collagen supplements for wound healing and skin elasticity are becoming more forceful every day.
In this line and with prior medical approval, you can find them in different presentations :
- Capsules, liquids, or powders to take by mouth.
- Collagen-enriched protein bars and coffee creamers. They are one of the newer supplements.
- Collagen creams. They help prevent and reduce wrinkles.
- Injections. They reaffirm and improve the general appearance of the skin. In addition, they have been shown to have a lasting effect of up to 12 weeks.
Collagen Supplement Uses
The use of collagen supplements has become popular in recent years. Its benefits range from relieving joint pain to improving skin health. Similarly, some of the best-known benefits include the following:
- It delays aging and prevents the appearance of wrinkles.
- Improves the elasticity and turgor of the epidermis.
- Strengthens hair and nails.
- Reduces stiffness and joint discomfort.
- It blocks the breakdown of bones and lowers the risk of osteoporosis.
- Prevents loss of muscle mass.
- Improves cardiovascular health.
Who should not take collagen supplements?
In general, anyone can take these supplements with a previous medical prescription and under progressive surveillance.
However, it is necessary to consider the contraindications of collagen and, in turn, certain risks if you take a higher dose than the recommended one.
If you take calcium supplements or medicines
If you take calcium, try to avoid the intake of marine collagen.
As a study at the University of Sonora and published by the Revista de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud explains, this protein is extracted from cartilage and bone. Hence, the supplements already contain enough calcium. For this reason, if you combine it with accessories, you can suffer from hypercalcemia with symptoms such as:
- Bone pain.
- Fatigue: This is because red blood cells take longer to transport oxygen to different body parts as calcium builds up in the blood.
- Vomiting and diarrhea.
- Irregular pulse: The pulse changes because the heart has to work harder to pump blood.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnant or lactating women should consult with their doctor whether or not it is recommended that they take supplements.
Likewise, those of collagen (in case they are recommended) should be pure to avoid harmful substances. Furthermore, they belong to bovine sources; since fish and shellfish have a higher risk of producing allergies.
Side effects of collagen supplements
While the topical application of collagen is relatively safe, other presentations can cause side effects. However, these side effects are rare and are not associated with severe problems.
A study on an oral collagen supplement published in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that none developed adverse effects.
1. Alteration in evacuations
Based on the results of a study they were carried out in 2016 by several researchers from the Center for Musculoskeletal Health (University of California), Of 191 volunteers, 14 developed gastrointestinal problems from taking collagen supplements.
And it is that although this side effect is rare, there is a possibility that it occurs in some cases. These symptoms include diarrhea and constipation.
2. Stomach conditions
Heartburn and a feeling of a full stomach are common adverse symptoms of long-term use of collagen supplements. It is generally associated with inadequate digestion of this substance and its excipients. Therefore, hydrolyzed supplements are recommended to reduce the appearance of these discomforts.
3. Bad taste in the mouth
Most are tasteless, but since some are derived from seafood, they often have a strong aftertaste and odor. Which causes a bad taste in the mouth after ingesting them.
4. Skin conditions
Although it does not usually happen and there is not enough scientific evidence, there may be people who, taking collagen supplements, present skin conditions due to an allergic reaction without first consulting their doctor.
Some people have reported suffering severe episodes of acne when taking certain collagen supplements. However, no scientific evidence exists to associate collagen with such attacks. The products often contain other elements, such as biotin, whey, or hyaluronic acid, which may be responsible.
For its part, the intake of collagen supplements is related to the appearance of scleroderma. This is a disease in which the body produces excessive collagen, causing multiple symptoms such as joint stiffness and pain. However, such a relationship also lacks scientific foundations since the body effectively regulates the excess of this protein.
5. Hypersensitivity reactions
Depending on the source of extraction, there may be an increased risk of an allergic reaction.
As detailed in an article published by the Nutrition and Health Magazine, fish, shellfish, and eggs are the foods most used as extraction sources. In this case, allergies are not contraindications to collagen; but to its origin.What collagen supplements to choose from?
When you are going to take collagen supplements, opt for hydrolyzate. Hydrolyzed collagen undergoes a treatment to break the protein into smaller particles, thus improving its absorption.
Also, choose pure versions; some include chemical substances and other ingredients to improve their texture and facilitate their absorption without resorting to hydrolyzation. These added different meanings might have their contraindications.You should also consider the source of extraction, especially if you have a food allergy or suspect that you may have it.
When in doubt about taking them or not, it is best to consult a specialist
Over the years, the body loses the ability to produce collagen. So one turns to supplements to slow skin aging and strengthen bones and joints.
However, as you have verified, there are cases in which side effects occur. That is why it is best to consult a professional beforehand. He will carry out the necessary tests to take them safely.