Could I take collagen supplements while breast feeding
Can I Take Collagen Supplements While Breastfeeding?
Making up around 30% of the total protein in our bodies, collagen is vital for our blood vessels, skin, bones and connective tissues. Unfortunately, collagen production begins to decline from the age of 25, which leaves skin thinner and more dehydrated. If you have recently given birth or are breastfeeding, you may feel that your skin is ageing at an accelerated rate and you lack a youthful glow.
Why Collagen Matters During the Postpartum Period
After giving birth, a woman undergoes intense physical, hormonal and physiological changes. Pregnancy and breastfeeding place significant demands on your body's nutrient stores, particularly protein, vitamins and minerals. Your body prioritises your baby's nutritional needs, which means your own tissues - including skin, hair and joints - may become depleted if you're not consuming adequate nutrients.
Marine collagen provides the specific amino acids (glycine, proline and hydroxyproline) that your body needs to repair and maintain connective tissues, skin and joints - all areas that experience strain during pregnancy and recovery.
Benefits of Collagen Supplements for Breastfeeding Mothers
While there is still room for further research specifically on breastfeeding mothers, studies show potential benefits of collagen supplementation that may be particularly relevant during the postpartum period:
- Improved skin elasticity and hydration after pregnancy-related skin stretching
- Support for faster wound healing, particularly after caesarean sections
- Healthier hair follicles and scalp to address postpartum hair loss
- Reduced joint discomfort from carrying and feeding your baby
- Support for connective tissue repair in the pelvic floor and abdominal wall
Postpartum Hair Loss and Collagen
During pregnancy, elevated oestrogen levels keep your hair in the growth phase for longer, often resulting in thicker, fuller hair. After birth, oestrogen levels drop rapidly, causing many of those hairs to enter the shedding phase simultaneously. This postpartum hair loss typically peaks around 3-6 months after delivery.
While this shedding is a normal part of postpartum recovery, collagen supplementation may help support hair health during this phase. Collagen provides the amino acids needed for keratin production (the protein that makes up hair), and many collagen supplements also contain vitamins that support healthy hair growth.
Joint Support During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding involves repetitive holding positions, often for extended periods. Many new mothers experience wrist, shoulder and back discomfort from nursing positions and carrying their baby. Marine collagen supports the health of tendons, ligaments and cartilage, potentially helping to reduce strain-related joint discomfort.
Skin Recovery After Pregnancy
| Skin Concern | How Collagen May Help | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Stretch marks | Supports skin elasticity and repair | 3-6 months of consistent use |
| Loss of firmness | Improves skin tone and structure | 8-12 weeks |
| Dehydration | Helps skin retain moisture | 4-8 weeks |
| C-section scars | Supports wound healing and scar tissue | Ongoing support |
What to Look for in a Collagen Supplement While Breastfeeding
If your healthcare provider approves collagen supplementation during breastfeeding, look for products with the following characteristics:
- Pure Naticol marine collagen from sustainable, traceable sources
- No artificial sweeteners, additives or stimulants
- Third-party tested for purity and heavy metals (Informed Choice certification)
- Clean ingredient list with no unnecessary fillers
- Liquid format for easy absorption without digestive burden
- Contains supportive vitamins like C, B vitamins and l-lysine
Important Considerations
Nutrition is important during breastfeeding to help both your recovery and your baby's development. Breastfeeding women need more energy and nutrients in order to produce sufficient, nutritious milk. While marine collagen could help a breastfeeding woman with hydration, skin recovery and joint support, it should not replace a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
Focus first on adequate protein intake from varied sources (fish, meat, eggs, legumes), plenty of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Collagen supplementation works best when it complements - not replaces - a nutrient-dense diet.
Kollo Premium Liquid Marine Collagen provides 10,000mg of premium Naticol marine collagen plus vitamins C, B1, B5, B6, B12 and l-lysine in a clean liquid format. Each batch is Informed Choice certified for purity and safety.
Always consult your GP, midwife or health visitor before starting any new supplement while breastfeeding. They can assess your individual health needs and confirm whether collagen supplementation is appropriate for your circumstances.
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. Jenni understands the importance of supporting women's health through every life stage, which is why Kollo's formulations prioritise purity, safety and clean ingredients suitable for different life circumstances.
