Can too much collagen cause side effects?

As we know, collagen levels in our bodies begin to decline with age, which is why many people have turned to collagen supplements to help them retain great skin, hair, nails, and relieve pain associated with their joints. If you’re looking to add this popular supplement to your daily routine, a good place to start is by learning how a collagen supplement will be absorbed into your body. Collagen supplements are typically found in powder, capsule, and tablet form. Even though it can provide many benefits for your skin, this is not something you can use in a cream or gel form--it is too large to pass through the first layer of skin.

Can too much collagen cause side effects?

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So once you take your collagen supplement-- in whichever form works best for you--it will be absorbed in your gastrointestinal tract and taken to exactly where it is that it’s needed (where collagen is lacking in your body). The collagen will then promote ongoing collagen production in whatever areas need it the most. Studies have shown that even after four hours, the levels of collagen peptides can still be elevated, meaning it is still working hard to provide the stimulus for new collagen production. As you progress with your daily collagen dose you’ll start to notice changes to the levels of hydration in your skin, help with pain in joints, and it may even help you recover a little faster after an injury. This is why it’s key to stick with your collagen routine, because daily supplementation is the best way to see the results you want.

Can too much collagen cause side effects?

Studies have shown that even after four hours, the levels of collagen peptides can still be elevated, meaning it is still working hard to provide the stimulus for new collagen production. As you progress with your daily collagen dose you’ll start to notice changes to the levels of hydration in your skin, help with pain in joints, and it may even help you recover a little faster after an injury. This is why it’s key to stick with your collagen routine, because daily supplementation is the best way to see the results you want.

You will really start to see the effects of your collagen supplements when you take it consistently. Whether you choose to add it to your morning coffee or tea, put it in a smoothie with lunch, or take it each night in capsule form, the important thing is to make it a part of your routine. After several weeks of taking a collagen supplement, you may notice your skin feeling more supple and hydrated, your joints aching less, and your hair and nails less brittle. These are all signs that collagen is doing what it needs to do! Although some people see results in around four weeks, we suggest you take it consistently for at least 12 weeks in order to see the results you’re looking for. 

Can too much collagen cause side effects?

Key takeaways:

  • Collagen supplements are absorbed through your body through your GI tract
  • Wherever there is a lack of collagen is where the peptides will go to first
  • Take daily to see the results you want

Can too much collagen cause side effects?

What if You Accidently Take Too Much Collagen?

Are there risks to taking too much of this supplement?

Can too much collagen cause side effects?

Collagen supplements are a great way to promote an overall sense of wellbeing in your body--and fight some of those effects of aging! Image courtesy of Food Insight.

If you’re considering adding a collagen supplement to your routine, one question you might have is can you take too much? It might at first seem like an odd question, because our body in fact produces collagen, so how could you take too much? While this may be true, it is not generally regarded as a good idea to take an overwhelming amount of collagen at one time. Collagen supplements have been around for a while, and they are safe to take, but it’s always a good idea to stick within the recommended doses-- or the limits discussed by you and your doctor. Daily recommended dosages of collagen depend on your age, weight, height, and what form your supplement is in. If it’s a powder you could expect to take 10-30g, while if it’s a capsule, your recommended dosage might be 1,750mg. You can get your collagen in powder, tablet, and capsule form and take it at any time of day that works with your schedule. 

The amount of collagen you’ll take will also depend on what your goals are. If you’re looking to fight some of the effects of aging skin, or want to give your hair and nails a boost you might discuss with your doctor what the best option for you would be. However, if you have some joint pain or are curious about strengthening your bones as you age, your doctor might recommend a higher level to start with. Each person has a different amount that’s best suited to meet their goals, so make sure you speak with your healthcare provider about them.

Can too much collagen cause side effects?

Key takeaways:

  • Do stick to the recommended dosage of collagen.
  • Do speak to your healthcare provider about your collagen supplement goals.
  • Don’t go overboard because you don’t see results yet.

What Do You Do if You Take Too Much Collagen?

It might be tempting to go above the recommended daily dosages of collagen to “kick start” its effects, but should you choose to do so, speak with your doctor first. Although collagen is extremely safe, if you choose to take more, be aware that you might experience an upset stomach or bloating. Because collagen is something our body already produces, there are no harmful side effects of taking too much--besides being uncomfortable! It’s best to play it safe and stick to the dosage that’s right for you. After all, there are no studies to show that upping the doses will help you reach your health goals any faster.

Choose a collagen supplement with a safe, healthy, and effective collagen dosage to reach your health and wellness goals. Click here to shop Dr. Emil Nutrition's Multi Collagen Plus.

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In addition, if you have any allergies to shellfish or eggs, you might want to avoid large doses of supplements that contain this type of collagen in case it could trigger an allergic reaction.

What are the negative effects of taking collagen?

Collagen supplements may lead to mild side effects such as bloating, heartburn, and feelings of fullness. If you have food allergies, make sure to purchase supplements that don't contain your allergens.

What happens if you take collagen everyday?

Studies have shown that daily collagen supplements can help make your bones denser, slowing the aging process that makes them brittle and helping your body to produce new bone. Oral collagen supplements have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity for older people. They might also help to lessen wrinkles.

Can too much collagen supplement be harmful?

Can you take too much? Collagen is generally considered to be a safe and nontoxic daily supplement for healthy individuals, and most people won't experience adverse side effects. Still, some have reported symptoms, such as an unpleasant taste, feeling overly full, or other stomach complaints ( 27 ).

How much collagen is too much in a day?

There is no upper limit on how much collagen you can take per day, but most experts recommend taking between 15 and 30 grams per day. If you're new to taking collagen supplements, start with the lower end of this range and increase gradually as your body adjusts to the supplement.