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Is Collagen Good For Gut Health? Here’s Why It Works

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Is collagen good for gut health? Since ancient times, bone broth and gelatin have long been used to heal digestive problems. However, it was only until recently that scientists uncovered the science behind the nutritional power of these foods: collagen! The unique structural properties and amino acid profile of collagen allows this special protein to offer you many amazing health benefits, especially when it comes to your gut health. This includes reducing gut inflammation, heal stomach ulcers, aid in digestion, and regulate stomach acid secretion. Read below to learn more about how collagen for gut health may be the way to go.

5 Benefits of Collagen for Gut Health

Collagen is a special type of structural protein that is full of helpful amino acids. In fact, it’s the most abundant protein in the body; it makes up 90% of your connective tissue and organic bone mass, and 70% of our skin. It practically holds the body together. By the time we hit our 20s, however, our body actually begins to produce less collagen, leading to what we consider signs of aging: wrinkles, saggy skin, weaker joints and bones.

While many people think of collagen for its beauty benefits, like its amazing impact on hair, skin, and nails, there is so much collagen can do for your gut health! Collagen’s amino acid profile allows it to provide major help with digestive health and more. Here are five of the biggest gut health benefits of collagen peptides:

1. Collagen Regulates Stomach Acid Secretion

Collagen has been found to regulate the secretion of gastric juices by ensuring enough acid for proper digestion. Collagen also prevents an excess of gastric juices, which can lead to heartburn, stomach ulcers, and other painful digestive problems caused from an overly acidic environment1.

2. Helps to Heal Stomach Ulcers

Is collagen good for gut health? Glycine and Proline, the two main amino acids in Further Food Collagen Peptides, may help heal the stomach lining and prevent stress-induced ulcers through their positive impact on the central nervous system. Studies have identified glycine as an effective inhibitor of stomach ulcers due to its ability to prevent harmful gastric secretions in the stomach lining2.

3. Aids in Digestion

Another collagen and gut health benefit is that collagen helps digestion. Because collagen is a hydrophilic molecule, it has an attraction to water and acidic molecules, which aids the digestive process.  Ingested collagen surrounds itself with water and stomach acid as it moves through the GI tract, which assists the breakdown of other proteins and carbohydrates in the intestines. Additionally, by holding water in the intestine, collagen helps move food through the GI tract more smoothly.

4. Helps Repair the Intestinal and Stomach Lining

Want to know how you can heal the intestinal and stomach lining? Try supplementing with collagen peptides! Science has identified collagen synthesis as an important component in the process of repairing and healing the intestinal lining. When there is damage or inflammation to the intestinal lining, new smooth muscle cells are made to heal the stomach lining and the intestinal wall. Scientists have found that collagen production in the intestine is greatest when smooth muscle cells are being generated during healing. Thus, collagen is a key component to healing the intestinal wall. Supplementing with collagen may help to repair and heal the stomach lining. 3

5. Heals Leaky Gut and IBS

Have you considered supplementing with collagen for leaky gut? Glutamine, one of the amino acids in collagen, has been identified as the key amino acid for preventing inflammation of the gut wall and healing leaky gut syndrome. It has been linked to inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress associated with the opening of tight junctions in the connective tissue of the intestinal lining4. Studies have found decreased collagen levels in individuals with digestive imbalances. Specifically, there is an association between inflammatory bowel disease and decreased serum collagen levels5. Supplementation with collagen is key to providing relief for digestive diseases.

What Are Collagen Peptides?

We’ve mentioned that collagen peptides in particular are super helpful when it comes to providing your gut with the aforementioned benefits, so you may be wondering what “peptides” are. Collagen peptides are a specific form of collagen in which the protein has been hydrolyzed and therefore is able to dissolve into virtually any liquid, hot or cold. Collagen peptides are broken down to a low molecular weight, meaning they are much smaller and thus much easier to digest and absorb!

Of course, you can reap the gut health benefits from other forms of collagen, but peptides have becomes so popular due to its versatility — you can slip it into almost any recipe!

How to Take Collagen Further

The benefits of collagen for gut health don’t stop at the stomach; taking collagen further is actually incredibly easy to do. If you want to take control over your gut health, it may be time to start implementing collagen into your diet. Thank goodness it’s super simple! Supplementing with collagen peptides on a daily basis can help your body replenish its collagen levels and support your gut. Try Further Food Collagen Peptides, which are tasteless and can be incorporated into a variety of recipes.  From baked desserts to sweet smoothies to savory casseroles, you can add your daily collagen supplement into a wide variety of delicious dishes, all the while giving your gut that nutritional boost it may need.

So, now you know that collagen peptides are rich sources of amino acids glycine, glutamine, and proline, and they can help heal your stomach lining, support digestion, and prevent stress-induced ulcers. In other words, collagen is the key ingredient to a healthy, strong digestive system. It’s time to heal your gut with collagen peptides!

FAQs

What is collagen?

Collagen is a unique structural protein that makes up over 70% of your connective tissue, bone mass, and skin. Collagen is full of important amino acids that help keep your body together. While collagen is naturally produced in the body, once we reach our 20s, our collagen production begins to decrease, and that’s where signs of aging come in.

What’s the difference between collagen and collagen peptides?

Collagen peptides are a special form of collagen in which the protein has already been hydrolyzed. Because peptides are in a fully broken down state, they are able to dissolve easily into most hot or cold liquids. They’re also much easier to digest and absorb into the body, meaning peptides may be the best and fastest way to reap the gut benefits of collagen.

How can collagen improve gut health?

Collagen has two key amino acids, glycine and proline, which have been shown to help heal the stomach lining and the intestinal wall. Additionally, collagen can regulate gastric juice secretion and prevent the excess of those juices. Collagen makes for a great digestive aid as well. Supplementing with collagen can prevent and/or provide relief a variety of gut complications, including ulcers, leaky gut syndrome, and inflammation of the gut wall.

How can I add collagen to my diet?

You can get collagen from specific types of foods, such as bone broth. However, an easier way to add collagen into your daily routine is to to take a collagen peptide supplement, like Further Food Collagen Peptides. Add one or two scoops to virtually any recipe and you’ll be able to get those collagen levels up.

Want to read more?

Collagen Protein Powder: Performance Benefits for An Active Lifestyle

Collagen Protein: The Anti-inflammatory and Joint Pain Reducing Superfood

Collagen Protein: Key Component in Weight Loss and Appetite Control

The Anti-Aging Superfood: Why Collagen Protein is Beauty’s New Fountain of Youth

Vanilla Chai Collagen Protein Smoothie

Gingered Butternut Squash Soup

Citations:

1. The Important Role of Collagen in Digestive Health.” LQ Liquid Health, 29 Jan. 2018, www.lqliquidhealth.com/the-important-role-of-collagen-in-digestive-health/.

2. Tariq, M. Studies on the Antisecretory, Gastric Anti-ulcer and Cytoprotective Properties of Glycine.National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9344231>.

3. Graham, MF. Collagen Synthesis by Human Intestinal Smooth Muscle Cells in Culture. National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3792777>.

4. Lin, M. L-Glutamate Supplementation Improves Small Intestinal Architecture and Enhances the Expressions of Jejunal Mucosa Amino Acid Receptors and Transporters in Weaning Piglets.National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine<http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25368996>.

5. Koutroubakis, IE. Serum Laminin and Collagen IV in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14600124>.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

hazelnut collagen peptides
Further Food Contributor
Helping you eat better, feel better, naturally.

Founder's story:

"My father had just been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, my mom was
managing her hypothyroid, and my best friend was struggling with painful IBS.
I went online to search for food-based and natural solutions that could help
them heal. But what I found was scattered, disorganized, and left me more confused. I thought, ‘There must be an easier way to discover solutions for various ailments from real experts and from people who had done it themselves. So I decided to build a resource—a platform for food as medicine solutions
for all your health needs. And I decided to take the wisdom from this community to create real food based products that heal.

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36 thoughts on “Is Collagen Good For Gut Health? Here’s Why It Works

  1. Beverly Gale Govereau

    I’m still taking Zoledronic Acid Injections as part my Breast Cancer treatment. How will Collagen help with/affect this?

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Hi Beverly: Thanks for reaching out. Collagen has a lot of benefits, from gut health to helping with bone and joint health. However, we recommend that you consult with your medical care provider to learn more about how taking collagen can affect your cancer treatment. Best of luck to you.

      Reply
  2. Nathan

    I’d been suffering with gastritis and an erosion of the stomach lining. I tried all sorts to remedy it, and after reading this article on collagen peptides decided to give it a go. One week after starting taking collagen peptides I can confirm its working. I couldn’t believe it, totally awesome results in such a short time. Thank you.

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Hi Nathan: Thanks for sharing your story! We are so glad that we were able to help and that collagen has been so helpful to you. We recommend continuing taking collagen regularly to keep your gut healthy.

      Reply
  3. Peter

    Hi, I have a pancreas that does not produce enzymes, for which I take CREON. I also have a flattened pituitary gland w/ an empty seller. My food intake is very limited, about 1 cup of food then I bloat; the rest of my intake is protein powder. It is that or a feeding tube. I keep trying anything and everything out there to help the bloat/gas problem. What hope can you give with your collagen peptides? Most I have looked at talk about skin, hair, etc. Obviously I am looking for digestive HELP, please. Also, I have osteoporosis, so the bone help is a plus. Is your product helpful in that area.
    Thank you.
    God bless.
    Peter

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Hi Peter: Thanks for reaching out. Collagen does have specific gut health benefits, such as helping heal leaky gut and IBS. Additionally, collagen can aid in the breakdown of food, thereby helping with digestion. In light of your medical issues, however, we recommend consulting with your medical care provider who is familiar with you medical history. We wish you good luck.

      Reply
  4. Psadie

    I have been reading about the success of people taking Collagen Peptides…hair growth, glowing skin, strong nails etc. I decided to try the Peptides for my acid reflux that seems to be getting worse. I just began taking it today and I am AMAZED that all day I had no reflux, burning or pain. I did have some cramping for a short time but it subsided and I have never felt better. I was taking Nexium then Prilosec both gave me foggy, fuzzy brain and threw my balance off. My doctor has never said a word about this type of product but only wants me to take more pills. I can hardly wait to see what else the Collagen Peptides do for my body.

    Reply
  5. Jamie

    I just started taking collagen peptides, and also take Metamucil powder. I fo no have a large intestine due to an infection 10 years ago. Are the two taken together going to slow my HI tract dow TOO much?

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Hi Jamie: Thanks for the question. Normally collagen can be taken with other supplements, including Metamucil. However, we recommmend that you ask your medical care practitioner who is more familiar with your personal history.

      Reply
  6. Judy Marsh

    I am taking Havasu collagen gummies. I have gastritis and gallstones. It seems to be working as I’ve been taking for a month. Should I switch to Peptides? I’ve been looking for almost a year for some relief. Dr gave me pantoprazole but I quit taking. Upset my stomach. Thank you for your comment and a great article. Judy Marsh…Scottsdale Arizona

    Reply
  7. Alice

    I have been looking for collagen powder for a long time now, end up getting it 1 month ago; can you help me understand the scientific of collagen with weight loss? I am 52 years, an epileptic

    Reply
  8. monica navarro

    I’ve been investigating about the benefits of collagen as I would like to take it for joint and skin care but I ‘ve been diagnosed with chronic gastritis. I’m 50 yrs old and the gastritis symptoms come and go, could collagen help with my condition or at least not make it worse? Thanks.

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Thanks for the question. As is written in this article, collagen can play a role in repairing gut lining, helping digestion and regulating stomach acid. This can all help with gastritis symptoms. While we recommend 1-2 scoops a day indefinitely for maximum benefits, we recommend you consult with your medical care practitioner for personal advice. Wishing you good health.

      Reply
  9. Terri Kosinski

    I just came upon your brand of collagen. I have been doing a lot of research on Collagen. Everyone says their product is the best. But I feel that is wrong. I am looking for a marine collagen and so far I like what your brand as to say. I have had gut issues most of my life. Actually it is getting better since I have given up almost all carbs, except a few like sweet potatoes and occasionally kasha. Where in North America does your collagen come from?

    Reply
  10. Julia Rodrigues

    m Julia Rodrigues from Nuvem Goa 403604 m suffering from hypothyrodism n IBS i cannot eat any pulses, vegetables ,certain fibrous fruits n inspite of all this i keep increasing weigth i was 82 n came down to 72 n now again increasing to 75 n 👌🏻m🙏🏻 getting irritating i walk a lot yet theres hardly any decrease i follow a dieticians diet which helped me first but now n often get soft slithing motion Thanks

    Reply
  11. Robyn

    what is the difference between Collagen and Gelatine and which is the best for gut and skin benefits .
    Thank You
    Robyn .

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Both Collagen peptides and Gelatin have the same gut and skin benefits since they come from the same source-collagen. The difference is in the use-collagen peptides can be mixed into any food or beverage without added texture, while gelatin “gels” in liquids so it is often used as a thickener to make jello, gummies, and puddings.

      Reply
  12. Shirley C

    I have had severe IBS/D for years. I am looking for a protein powder that would not make the diarrhea worse. I read that some of the powders make more fluid stay in the colon, so I don’t understand what smoothies with a protein powder would do. The LOWFOD Map diet helps my allergies and I am hoping to add some shakes. Any help will be appreciated. Shirley C

    Reply
  13. Glenda Kravetsky

    Hi , I’m a young 63 , but I have digestive issues, I have A hiatal hernia, I take Omeprazole for severe acid reflux. I’d like to know if this will help me , my stomach is also bloated and I carry extra weigh only in my stomach, will this help?

    Reply
  14. Trevor Adams

    Hi. I am male 72 yo. I would like to take collagen for both gut & joint health? Which collagen is best for me?

    Regards Trevor

    Reply
  15. Cyndy Forbes

    Which form of collegan helps gut? Type 1 , type 2, type 3 or types 1 and 3 combined in a powder? I got recently some powder and it says its made with 1 &3.

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Our Further Food Collagen powder is made of Type 1 and 3 which provide the best gut health benefits.

      Reply
  16. Red

    I can confirm that collagen has done wonders for my stomach. I mix it with glutamine powder and squeeze some lime juice in there (Vitamin C is necessary for collagen digestion).

    Reply
    1. Recipe Team

      Hi Barbara: We are now working on a marine collagen product and hope to come out with a vegan product later in the year. Stay tuned!

      Reply

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