3 Collagen Risks You Need to Know About Now

Collagen is a protein that helps keep your bones strong, your skin firm, and wounds healing, but your body naturally produces less of it as you age. Some people take collagen supplements to compensate for this natural decline, and while they are generally safe, rare side effects can occur.

1. Stomach aches

Side effects of collagen are rare; the most common is mild stomach upset. However, digestive problems can occur, such as:

• Heartburn
• Bloating
• Gas
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

Collagen is available in liquid or powder form. No research indicates whether one type is more likely to cause side effects than the other.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements or guarantee their safety or effectiveness. If you experience stomach upset or digestive problems after taking a collagen supplement, stop taking the medication and talk to your healthcare professional.

2. Allergic reaction

Any medication or supplement can cause an allergic reaction. Hypersensitivity reactions may include a red rash and itching. Other possible allergic reactions include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Facial swelling
• Difficulty swallowing
• Shortness of breath

One study described allergic reactions in two people exposed to bovine collagen, a type of collagen derived from the connective tissues of cows. Collagen supplements are made from animal connective tissue; it does not occur naturally in plants.

3. Skin reaction

Although rare, it is possible to experience a serious skin reaction from collagen. One case study found that a person developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome after taking a collagen supplement. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is an extreme allergic reaction that causes painful blisters and peeling skin. It can also lead to fever, flu-like symptoms, and organ damage. This is very rare and can occur with certain medications.

The person in the study who experienced the severe reaction took fish-derived or marine collagen. Fish-derived collagen may be more likely to cause a hypersensitivity reaction than other types of collagen.

Do I need a collagen supplement?

Most people don’t need to take a collagen supplement. The body naturally produces collagen using protein in your diet. To naturally increase your collagen production, eat protein-rich foods such as:

• Legumes
• Nut
• Poultry
• Fish
• Red meat

Other nutrients needed for collagen production include:

• Copper
• Calcium
• Zinc
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

Research shows that a healthy diet rich in protein and vitamins promotes normal collagen production. After age 40, your body produces less collagen; you can lose about 1% per year. Talk to your healthcare professional if you want to start a collagen supplement.

Who Should Not Take a Collagen Supplement?

Most healthy adults can safely take a daily collagen supplement without adverse effects. Do not take it if you have a history of allergic reaction to a collagen supplement. Most collagen supplements are made from connective tissues from cows, pigs or fish.

Do not take a collagen supplement if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Collagen supplements containing high doses of the nutrient biotin may interfere with thyroid medications.