Is Collagen Safe For Breastfeeding? An Important Reminder Before Taking The Supplement

Editor’s Note: This article is intended for information purposes only. It does not substitute a doctor. It is vital to always consult a medically trained professional for advice that suits your needs best.

For the past few years, the buzzword in the skincare world and among beauty enthusiasts has been collagen. It's supposed to make the skin supple and radiant. That's why new moms, who no longer have the time for an elaborate regimen, are especially interested to try it. But they ask: is collagen safe for breastfeeding?

What is collagen?

Collagen is defined as "any of a group of fibrous proteins that occur in vertebrates as the chief constituent of connective tissue fibrils and in bones." When boiled with water, collagen yields gelatin and glue. (Think bulalo.)

It is also the most abundant protein in the body, according to the Harvard School of Public health. The fiber-like structure found in this type of protein is used to make connective tissues and help build bone, skin, muscles, and cartilage. This structure is a major factor in strengthening the tissues for more elasticity.

Collagen is also the "most abundant component of the extracellular matrix," according to a study published in the United States National Library of Medicine. It helps maintain the skin structure and make the skin's numerous functions to take place. Additionally, the exracellular matrix absorbs water and helps the skin remain smooth, firm, and strong.

Though aging is a main cause of decreasing collagen production in our bodies, there are other factors that can accelerate its decline. Foremost examples are:

• Excess sun exposure
• Excess alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Lack of sleep
• Lack of exercise

Collagen supplement

The skincare industry first used collagen as an ingredient in anti-aging creams and serums. But the effectiveness of those products was doubted even by dermatologists, according to the Harvard findings, "as collagen is not naturally found on the skin’s surface but in the deeper layers."

Medical experts pointed out that collagen fibers are too big to penetrate the skin's outer layers. Even shorter fibers, called peptides, can't do the job. Thus, the next step was manufacturing oral collagen supplements in the form of pills, powders, and potions.

The products are sold either as collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen as these broken down forms are more easily absorbed and therefore believed to be effective in promoting healthy skin and joints. It's worthy noting, though, that other ingredients with similar benefits are added in some collagen supplements, such as vitamin C, biotin, or zinc.

Is collagen safe for breastfeeding?

While there are limited studies confirming the benefits of collagen to the skin and joints, as well as its safety for general use, there is hardly any research on the supplement's effect on pregnant and breastfeeding women.

"So your safest bet is to hold off until after you’ve weaned," according to What To Expect on taking collagen supplements.

Dr. Raul Quillamor, an obstetrician-gynecologist, expounded on the topic as a resource person in an episode of the GMA-7 medical program, Pinoy MD. He said, "Kung nag-be-breastfeed ka, mas mabuti pang itigil mo muna ang mga gamot na hindi mo talaga kailangan, except mga vitamins at minerals, tulad ng calcium at iron."

His explanation: "Kasi wala tayong mga studies diyan, walang mga researches na nagpapatunay na ang collagen ay safe sa isang breastfeeding mother. Kasi syempre...pag na-take ng baby 'yung gatas ay nandoon din ang mga nutrients, napapasa sa baby. So hindi natin alam ang safety ng collagen. So stop muna."

Boosting collagen production in the body

Instead of taking supplements, experts from Harvard recommend these measures to ensure general good health not just for the skin and joints:

Go for certain high-protein foods

These food items contain the amino acids that make collagen, such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Prime examples include fish, poultry, meat, eggs, dairy, legumes, and soy.

Load up on additional nutrients

Zinc is among the nutrients needed for collagen production. It is found in shellfish, legumes, meats, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Another vital nutrient is vitamin C, which can be consumed from citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

You can start by developing habits that may help protect your body’s natural collagen. These include wearing sunscreen, or if you can't avoid the outdoors during daytime, limit your exposure to direct sunlight. Ideally, just spend from 10 to 20 minutes in direct midday sunlight three to four times a week to get adequate vitamin D.

You should also get adequate sleep, typically ranging from seven to nine hours a night. Then avoid smoking, even secondhand smoke, and control stress. Following these healthy habits is much better than worrying if collagen is safe for breastfeeding.

Read here on the benefits of breastfeeding.