Collagen Diet: Benefits, How to Get It, Diet Tips & More

Collagen is a general term for the main structural proteins found in the skin and connective tissues in humans and animals. It makes up about 30% of the protein in the human body. The primary function of collagen is to keep the skin healthy and aid in proper wound healing and scar formation. It is broken down into amino acids in the body, which are utilized for cell building and regeneration.

Collagen is composed of 19 amino acids, including glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, lysine, and arginine. There are at least 29 types of collagen, but humans primarily have Types I-III:

• Type I: Found in the skin, tendon, vasculature, organs, and bone.
• Type II: Present in cartilage.
• Type III: Found in reticular fibers in connective tissue.

The collagen diet focuses on avoiding excessive sugar and refined carbohydrates while consuming collagen-rich foods. As collagen levels decrease with age, increasing collagen intake can help maintain youthfulness, energy, and beauty.

Other variations of the diet may involve taking collagen supplements or receiving collagen injections. Collagen supplements are usually sourced from animal bones, skin, and connective tissues, although vegan alternatives are available.

What happens when collagen levels drop?

Collagen production significantly decreases as the body ages. This leads to reduced skin elasticity, thinning of the skin’s outer layer, and skin damage, resulting in wrinkles, crepey skin, and sagging. Low collagen levels may also hinder hair growth and contribute to hair thinning.

Decreased collagen levels can also cause stiffer tendons and ligaments, weakened muscles, joint pain, osteoarthritis, and gastrointestinal problems.

Food sources of collagen

Collagen-rich foods include:

• Fish
• Chicken
• Egg whites
• Citrus fruits
• Berries
• Red and yellow vegetables
• Garlic
• White tea
• Leafy greens
• Cashews
• Tomatoes
• Bell peppers
• Beans
• Avocados
• Soy
• Herbs high in collagen, such as Chinese knotweed, horsetail, and gynostemma
• Herbs that help produce collagen, like gotu kola, bala, and ashwagandha

These foods are believed to improve skin elasticity, slow down aging, and alleviate joint pain, according to proponents of the collagen diet. However, while some limited studies have shown benefits of collagen consumption, it remains uncertain whether these benefits are unique to collagen or can be derived from other types of protein and a healthy diet in general. Additionally, since ingested collagen is broken down into amino acids, consuming collagen does not guarantee the production of new collagen.

QUESTION

7 potential health benefits of a collagen diet

A collagen diet may provide the following health benefits:

1. Improved skin health

Collagen enhances skin elasticity and moisture, helping combat dryness and wrinkles that come with aging.

2. Prevents bone density loss

Collagen contributes significantly to bone mass. As collagen production decreases with age, consuming foods that promote collagen synthesis becomes essential.

3. Relieves joint pain

Collagen maintains cartilage balance in the body, which is crucial for optimal joint health and protecting against bone damage often associated with osteoporosis.

4. Promotes heart health

Adequate collagen levels ensure optimal artery function, preventing atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular disorders.

5. Enhances hair and nail growth

Collagen supports healthy hair and nail development, resulting in shine and strength.

6. Improves gut health

Collagen aids digestion, repairs the gut lining, and facilitates the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, promoting intestinal health.

7. Boosts metabolism

Collagen may enhance metabolism, leading to improved fat burning and weight management.

While many of these claims lack scientific evidence, the overall dietary recommendations of the collagen diet (excluding supplements) align with those of a healthy diet.

Drawbacks of a collagen diet

The collagen diet generally has few downsides (excluding supplements). However, potential cons include:

• Allergic reactions to certain allergenic foods, such as shellfish or eggs
• Heartburn
• Feelings of fullness or unpleasant taste
• Possible adverse effects of excessive collagen intake, such as thickened skin and organ damage

Are collagen supplements safe?

Most collagen supplements undergo hydrolyzation, which increases absorption and facilitates manufacturing into tablets, capsules, or powders. Some supplements are infused in drinks or edibles. Ingesting more than 20 grams per day may be harmful, according to some dietitians.

Bone broth supplements, often used as a collagen supplement, may not be easily absorbed. Additionally, some supplements may contain animal by-products (e.g., bones, tendons) that carry the risk of viruses or high concentrations of toxic metals. It is crucial to check the ingredients and consult with a doctor before using any supplement.

Can collagen be vegan?

Plants do not contain collagen; however, they have proteins that mimic its effects. Certain plants contain amino acids found in animal collagen, such as glycine, lysine, and proline. Thus, vegan foods rich in these amino acids can potentially enhance the body’s natural collagen production.

Alternatively, vegan collagen supplements are produced through genetic modification of yeast and bacteria. The human collagen formation genomes are transferred to yeast or bacteria, which begin producing collagen building blocks. Digestive enzymes are added to convert the building blocks into collagen with the same structure as human collagen.

Subscribe to MedicineNet’s Weight Loss/Healthy Living Newsletter

By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet, and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.

Advantages of vegan collagen

Cruelty-free

Unlike animal collagen, vegan collagen is not extracted from animals and is thus cruelty-free.

Cost-effective

Plant-based vegan collagen supplements are often more affordable and environmentally friendly than animal collagen alternatives. As demand grows, authentic vegan collagen can be produced on a larger scale at a lower cost, using inexpensive and easily obtainable components.

Improved safety profile

Laboratory-manufactured products can be easily traced and purified, minimizing the risk of contaminants. Tracer chemicals can be added to identify the source of impurities, allowing for immediate product recalls if necessary, preventing widespread problems.

Reduced allergy risk

Vegan collagen eliminates the potential disease transmission associated with animal-derived collagen, making it a safer choice for individuals with allergies.

Medical applications

Vegan collagen is more readily available than collagen derived from animals, making it suitable for medical procedures that require collagen use, such as wound healing and skin growth in dermatology.

Collagen is widely used in dermatology for sutures and to promote wound healing and skin growth. Vegan collagen is more easily obtained than animal-derived collagen and may be beneficial for medical procedures requiring the use of collagen.