Collagen for Gut Health: Does It Improve GI Functioning?

September 13, 2023

Does collagen improve gut health? The simple answer is yes. As the most abundant protein in your body, it is used to make connective tissue - like bone, muscles, tendons, and cartilage. Many studies show that taking collagen supplements and incorporating certain sources of collagen in your diet can positively impact your gut health by reducing inflammation, helping to regenerate your gut barrier and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Why? Well, collagen plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of your intestinal wall, a primordial factor in digestive health. Rich in amino acids, this protein is necessary for growth and repair of your gut lining, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption. It assists with breaking down other proteins and carbohydrates, smoothly moving your consumed food to your GI tract.

Types of Collagen: Which is Best?
There are three types of collagen: type I, type II, and type III. Type I collagen is found in your bones, skin, and tendons and can help repair damaged intestinal lining and reduce inflammation, which can alleviate symptoms of conditions like leaky gut syndrome (also known as gut permeability). Type II collagen is primarily found in cartilage and can help reduce inflammation in the gut and improve symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Type II collagen is often considered the best option. This type of collagen is derived from the cartilage of animals, and it has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the gut, improve digestion, and support overall gut health. Type III collagen, found in your skin, blood vessels, and organs, can improve the structure and function of your gut lining, reducing inflammation and improving overall digestive health.

Natural Sources of Collagen
There are several natural sources of collagen for gut health. Bone broth is a popular option as it is loaded with amino acids and minerals. It can be made by simmering chicken, beef or other bones for a few hours or purchased from the store. Fish, notably salmon and tuna, are also rich in collagen and can be consumed regularly for enhanced gut health and overall wellness. Vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are nutrient-dense and can aid collagen production in your body. Incorporating these into your diet can help improve digestion and maintain a healthy gut. Lastly, citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are packed with vitamin C, which is crucial for collagen synthesis. Incorporating these fruits into your diet can promote gut health and overall well-being.

Should You Take Collagen Supplements?
Whether or not you should take collagen supplements depends on your individual needs and goals. There are many benefits to taking collagen supplements. For starters, collagen is an important protein that makes up a significant portion of your skin, hair, nails, and joints. As you age, your body produces less collagen which can lead to wrinkles, joint pain, and other signs of aging. By taking collagen supplements, you can help replenish your body's supply of this important protein and potentially improve the health and appearance of your skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, some studies suggest that collagen supplements may help improve joint health and reduce inflammation. If you are looking to improve your skin, joint health, muscle mass, or gut health, they may be worth considering.

Optimized, bioavailable collagen supplements are the best options to help support your body to have healthy connective tissues, gut lining, GI microbiome, and bones. RegenaCollagenPlus helps restore your gut health along with improving bone strength, joint integrity, skin elasticity, and more. In powder form, it can easily be incorporated into shakes, smoothies, and other foods and beverages. This added convenience makes it an easy way to start positively impacting your gut health. It's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen. Keep in mind that collagen supplements are not a magic solution and work best when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

In conclusion, collagen is extremely helpful in maintaining a healthy gut. It is the most abundant protein in the body and is crucial in sustaining the intestinal wall's integrity, as well as aiding digestion and nutrient absorption. At MTC, we are here to help tailor your medical plan to benefit your own unique needs. Contact us today to begin a plan that is most beneficial for you.