Can I Take Collagen While Breastfeeding?
Can I take collagen while breastfeeding?
The postnatal period is one of the most logical times to consider collagen supplementation. Your body has just undergone extraordinary physical demands - skin has stretched and needs to recover, joints and ligaments are restabilising, and the protein demands of breastfeeding are substantial. Here is what you need to know about collagen supplementation during this period.
Is collagen safe while breastfeeding?
Marine collagen is a hydrolysed protein - it is broken down into amino acids before being absorbed into your bloodstream. The amino acids in collagen (glycine, proline, hydroxyproline and others) are identical to those found in any high-protein food such as fish, chicken or eggs. There is no known mechanism by which these amino acids would cause harm to a breastfed baby.
Unlike some supplements, high-quality marine collagen does not contain herbs, hormones, stimulants or high-dose vitamins that would warrant concern during breastfeeding. The key caveat is always product quality - the collagen supplement you choose must be independently tested and certified free from contaminants.
Why the postnatal period is an excellent time for collagen
Skin recovery
During pregnancy, the skin stretches significantly. Collagen - the primary structural protein of the skin - is under enormous strain during this process. After delivery, the skin needs to contract and repair. Providing the body with a high dose of marine collagen peptides gives the skin the amino acid building blocks it needs to support this recovery. Research on collagen for skin consistently demonstrates improvements in elasticity, hydration and firmness within 8 to 12 weeks of daily supplementation at 10,000mg. Read more in our complete guide to liquid marine collagen.
Joint and connective tissue recovery
The hormone relaxin - which loosens ligaments during pregnancy - remains elevated for some weeks after delivery, particularly in breastfeeding mothers. Joints may feel unstable, and connective tissue recovery takes time. The amino acids in collagen - particularly glycine and proline - provide essential nutritional support for cartilage, ligament and tendon repair during this period.
Protein requirements
Breastfeeding increases your daily protein requirement by approximately 20g above the standard recommendation. Collagen is a high-quality protein source - a 10,000mg sachet of Kollo Premium Liquid Marine Collagen provides approximately 9.5g of protein. This contributes meaningfully to the elevated protein needs of breastfeeding while simultaneously supporting skin and connective tissue recovery.
30-Serving Powder Pouch
Premium Marine Collagen Powder Pouch
A 303g resealable pouch of premium marine collagen — 30 daily servings of 10,000mg, with the best per-serving value for at-home daily use.
Shop Powder Pouch →What to look for in a collagen supplement while breastfeeding
Not all collagen supplements are equal. During breastfeeding, product quality matters more than at any other time. When choosing a collagen supplement, look for products that are independently tested for heavy metals, pesticides and other contaminants. Informed Choice certification is the gold standard - it requires testing for over 250 potentially harmful substances and is the same standard used by professional athletes.
Also check the ingredient list carefully. Avoid any collagen product that contains:
- High-dose vitamin A - potentially harmful in large quantities during breastfeeding
- Herbal extracts not confirmed safe for breastfeeding
- Stimulants or adaptogens without specific breastfeeding safety data
- Artificial sweeteners or additives not suitable for infants in large quantities
Does collagen pass into breast milk?
Amino acids - the components that collagen breaks down into - are naturally present in breast milk as part of its protein content. There is no evidence that supplementing with hydrolysed collagen would meaningfully alter the amino acid composition of breast milk in a way that is harmful. The body regulates breast milk composition tightly and prioritises the needs of the infant.
When to start collagen after giving birth
There is no specific waiting period after delivery before starting collagen supplementation, as long as you have recovered from any surgical procedures and do not have contraindications. Many women find the 6-week postnatal check a natural time to discuss supplements with their GP. For women with straightforward deliveries who are in good health, beginning collagen supplementation within the first few weeks postnatally is reasonable with healthcare provider approval.
For information about collagen during pregnancy specifically, read our guide to taking collagen while pregnant.
Kollo Health was co-founded by Jenni Falconer - TV presenter, Smooth Radio breakfast host, ten-time London Marathon runner and host of the RunPod podcast. Read her story and why she created Kollo.
