The Importance of Collagen for Women at All Stages of Pregnancy and Nursing

Dear new mommy, despite bodily discomforts like a stretched tummy, brittle hair, and hurting hips, the world tells you to be the healthiest version of "you" possible when pregnant. Pregnant women have a long list of responsibilities. The inability to settle on a meal choice is a common one. In recent years, collagen has been increasingly labeled as a "should" ingredient. This article will explain its safety during pregnancy, benefits, dosage, and administration.

How Many Different Kinds Of Collagen Exist?

There are at least 16 different forms of collagen, but only types I, II, III, V, and X are critically necessary for human health.

• Type I collagen makes up most of your collagen. Its densely packed fibers aid the skin, bones, tendons, cartilage, connective tissue, and teeth.
• Type II collagen has a significantly lower packing density than Type I. Type II elastic cartilage cushions your joints.
• Type III collagen, a single-molecule collagen, supports muscles, organs, and arteries. Reduced collagen production has been associated with several viral and bacterial liver illnesses, renal fibrosis, and vascular problems.
• Type V collagen works with collagen type I to sustain the structure of various tissues, including the bones, muscles, liver, lungs, and most especially the placenta.
• Type X collagen is present in endochondral bone formation, a fancy term for the growth of bones and cartilage.

Also Read: To All The New Moms Out There: Regain Your Natural Glow!

Expert View On Collagen For Pregnant And Nursing Women

Protein is the first ingredient! Pregnant women, according to studies, require a significant amount of extra protein daily. American Pregnancy Association recommends 75–100 grams of protein daily. FSSAI recommends that pregnant Indian women consume 78 g of protein per day.

Those with morning sickness may have difficulty consuming sufficient protein. Collagen peptides have become popular among pregnant women because they allow them to eat more protein without sacrificing their appetite.

Remember that collagen is only a dietary supplement, not a substitute for the high-quality proteins you should already be getting from your diet. Collagen, while a protein, is incomplete when consumed alone. It lacks a balanced amino acid profile like a leaf burger or healthy seafood for pregnant women. Glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline variations make up the bulk of collagen's amino acid content. The meaning of "important" is unclear. Eating them is the best way to maximize their nutritional value.

Benefits Of Collagen During Pregnancy

• Collagen Benefit For Newborn 

Collagen is essential for healthy skin, bones, and cartilage. The amount of time and energy expended during fetal development to form the skin, bones, and cartilage that comprise a child can only be estimated.

Despite taking a multivitamin or prenatal supplement, Purdue University researchers discovered that many pregnant women were deficient in vitamins D, C, A, B6, K, and E, as well as folate, choline, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and zinc. As indicated, collagen is rich in six of the above nutrients.

The International Journal of Biomedical Sciences issued a research article describing collagen's roles in a healthy pregnancy, including establishing itself in the decidual tissue (short for "placental tissue") and strengthening a strong immune system.

• Collagen May Prevent Morning Sickness

Pregnant women who don't eat enough often suffer from morning sickness. In addition, proteins like collagen are hard to come by and have a high nutritional value. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels may also contribute to nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Include fat and protein in even the smallest daily meals to stabilize blood sugar. Blend some collagen powder and almond butter into a smoothie to prevent morning sickness.

• Collagen May Help Prevent Stretch Marks

Expectant mothers' skin stretches as their bellies grow to sizes they haven't been since puberty. However, our collagen production decreases as we age, leading to dry skin and pregnancy stretch marks. The improvement in skin health is collagen's primary benefit. Several details of clinical research have shown that taking collagen peptides or supplements can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and dry skin, making them a promising anti-aging treatment. In addition, there is scientific evidence that collagen supplements can increase skin elasticity in women.

Collagen has been demonstrated to improve skin elasticity before the skin is stretched, not after. Therefore, beginning collagen supplementation before the belly has reached its maximum size may be optimal.

• Collagen May Ease Joint Pain During Pregnancy

Joint pain during pregnancy is common, but collagen may help alleviate those symptoms. The stress of a growing baby can result in new bodily problems (round ligament pain, sciatica, general muscle aches). Relaxin is a hormone secreted in early pregnancy to relax the ligaments of the uterus and pelvis in preparation for labor and delivery. However, the hormone is thought to perform too well, as it has been linked to instability and the potential for injury in other joints.

Synthesis of Collagen: Since it is an adhesive in your body, the Greek word for it is "adhesive." The cartilage and tendons in your body will thank you. Research suggests that collagen supplements can help alleviate joint discomfort and inflammation. In a study including 147 athletes (a high-risk group for joint pain), those who took collagen supplements reported much less pain than those who did not.

• Collagen May Aid Pregnancy-Related Hair Loss

Collagen may be helpful if you're experiencing hair loss during pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones can cause hair to become dry and even cause hair loss, even in women whose hair is not normally fine or brittle. Collagen peptide consumers and manufacturers highlight its hair-growing effects. 

However, there are few studies on the impact of collagen on hair growth and health. Since hair is mostly made of the protein keratin. Collagen has the amino acid proline among its many other amino acids. Keratin also consists mostly of the amino acid proline.

How Much Collagen Peptide Is Safe During Pregnancy?

Health authorities have not published daily collagen recommendations for pregnant or non-pregnant women because collagen supplementation is new. However, follow the label's dosing instructions if your doctor or gynecologist approves collagen supplements during pregnancy. Collagen peptides are best taken by adding one scoop to your morning smoothie, tea, or coffee.

Can Breastfeeding Mothers Take Collagen Peptides?

A 2016 study confirmed that women's protein levels and quality of life improved after using collagen supplements during pregnancy and postpartum. However, the collagen supplement did not mitigate breastfeeding issues, postpartum depression, and neonatal complications. Before using supplements while nursing, consult your doctor or gynecologist.

The Takeaway

There is no risk to the mother or the unborn child from taking collagen peptides. The skin's suppleness and the health of the joints are two physiological systems that are put under tremendous strain during pregnancy, and collagen is essential to maintaining their health. Collagen, which contains amino acids that help in gut sealing and maintaining gut health, is likely to be passed on to your child during vaginal birth. Therefore, Collagen Powder (Advanced) boosts collagen levels to have Healthy Skin. 

Note: Consult your doctor or gynecologist before nursing with supplements.

FAQ

Is collagen safe for pregnant women?

Collagen is a protein occurring naturally in many foods we eat. It's possible to find it in any cuisine you can think of, from bone broth to bell peppers. Therefore, when pregnant, it is safe (and suggested) to have a diet high in nutrients, such as that found in meats from reputable sources, colorful vegetables, and fruit.

How about collagen as a powder? Is it safe during pregnancy?

Again, probably yes. Collagen peptides are one of the most convenient dietary supplements. However, you should consult your doctor or midwife before beginning a new supplement regimen. Ethical issues have impeded collagen peptide experiments on pregnant women. 

How Much Collagen Is Safe To Consume When Breast Feeding?

Research shows that daily dosages of 2.5 - 15 gm of collagen are safe. If you choose to supplement with collagen, read the product's nutrition label to ensure you're receiving the correct.

Which Types Of Collagen May Be Consumed During Pregnancy?

Marine collagen is the only type of collagen to be cautious to consume during pregnancy. Marine collagen is derived from fish (skin, scales, or bones), a common allergy, and some fish species may also include amounts of heavy metals like mercury. Consult your doctor or midwife before starting a new supplement or prescription.