Collagen Supplementation During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Is collagen safe to consume during pregnancy?
Lots of expectant moms ask about the safety of supplementing their diet with collagen during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In answering this question it helps to understand a bit more about what collagen is.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, but your body starts to produce less and lower quality collagen from the age of 25. Supplementing your diet with collagen can improve skin and hair condition, reduce wrinkles, strengthen bones, repair joints and reduce inflammation. Collagen granules are simply a healthy, whole-food protein source and are therefore safe to take when pregnant and breastfeeding.
Is collagen supplementation beneficial during pregnancy?
Some studies have even found the consumption of collagen during pregnancy to potentially be quite beneficial for the expectant mom. Some of these benefits may include:
- Improved wound healing
- Improved sleep
- Reduced hair loss
- Increased muscle mass
Nutrition during pregnancy
Studies suggest that as little as 300 extra calories a day is all that is needed to sustain a healthy pregnancy, so try not to fall into the trap of “eating for two”!
Maternal nutrition during pregnancy is closely linked with the health of your developing baby. A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate hydration and appropriate vitamin and mineral supplementation are all important to optimize your health during pregnancy.
Baginski L, Winter M, Bailey TS, Capobianco S, Granese M, et al. (2016) Response to Hydrolysed Collagen Protein Supplementation in a Cohort of Pregnant and Post-Partum Women. J Preg Child Health 3: 275.
