Collagen Supplements & Gut Health

Collagen supplements have gained popularity in recent years, often promoted as a solution for various health concerns, including gut health. In this blog post, we'll explore the scientific research on collagen supplements and their potential impact on digestive health.
 

Collagen Basics

Collagen is a structural protein that constitutes a significant portion of your skin, bones, and connective tissues. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and strength of these structures. However, its potential influence on gut health has recently garnered attention. Most collagen supplements currently on the market are not plant-based, but with its rising popularity, we should expect to see some more plant-based options hitting the shelves soon.
 

Gut Health and Collagen

While there is limited direct scientific research on collagen's effects on gut health, the theory behind its potential benefits is based on the amino acids it contains. Collagen is rich in amino acids like glycine, proline, and glutamine, which are essential for the gut's structure and function.
 

Glycine and the Gut Barrier

Glycine, one of the amino acids found in collagen, is known for its role in supporting the gut barrier. The gut barrier is a selective barrier that controls the passage of nutrients and substances from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. Research published in "Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care" (2017) suggests that glycine may help maintain gut barrier integrity.

Glutamine and Gut Integrity

Glutamine, another amino acid abundant in collagen, is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the intestinal lining. A study in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" (2009) found that glutamine supports the rapid turnover of cells in the gut lining, contributing to its health.

Proline and Collagen Synthesis

Proline, though not directly related to gut health, plays a vital role in collagen synthesis. An adequate supply of proline ensures the body can produce collagen, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of connective tissues throughout the body.

Collagen and Digestive Disorders

Some individuals with specific gut-related disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), report improvements in symptoms after using collagen supplements. However, these effects are often anecdotal and may not apply to everyone.

Brands to Try:

Organika Enhanced Collagen

Webber Naturals Collagen30

Youtheory Collagen 

Take Homes

While the scientific evidence regarding collagen supplements for gut health is not extensive, there is a plausible connection between collagen's amino acids and gut integrity. Glycine, glutamine, and proline, found in collagen, play roles in supporting the gut barrier and maintaining gut lining health. Before considering collagen supplements for gut health, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have a digestive condition. Keep in mind that individual responses to supplements can vary.