Due to hormonal changes in the body, pregnant women often encounter skin problems such as dark skin, melasma, freckles... So pregnant women can choose to use collagen as a way to improve. However, does drinking collagen during pregnancy affect the fetus and the health of pregnant women?

What is Collagen?

Basically, collagen uses 25 to 30% of the total protein. Collagen is often found in parts such as skin, tendons, bones, hair, nails, joints, flesh, and corneas. There are about 29 types of collagen divided into many groups: Collagen type 1 and 3 are most abundant in tendons and ligaments

• Collagen type 2 is found in cartilage and bones.

• Collagen type 4 and 5 are present in muscles.

• Collagen is most abundant in cell membranes.

Collagen helps the skin to be firm and abundant because it has a great effect on the skin. Collagen protects connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. According to many studies, the amount of collagen in the body will decrease after the age of 25, leading to gradual aging of the body. Therefore, collagen supplementation is very important.

Although collagen is beneficial for the body, it depends on the needs and condition of the body. Because the body of pregnant women is undergoing many changes during pregnancy, taking collagen needs to be carefully considered.

Can Pregnant Women Take Collagen?

A woman's body is often very sensitive during pregnancy. Psychology, health, figure, and skin also change when facing. In particular, hormones in the bodies of pregnant women are also disrupted, so acne and melasma look very unsightly. So can pregnant women take collagen?

The answer is "yes," because basically the ingredients of collagen are benign. Pregnant women can take collagen if used in large amounts and under the proper guidance of a doctor. Collagen supplements not only include collagen but also hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and many other amino acids that help the body increase collagen production. Because collagen is a functional food, it is not harmful to the mother and fetus.

Pregnant mothers can use collagen because their bodies help convert collagen into amino acids. Pregnant women should choose safe proteins that they can use with confidence.

However, mothers should avoid using collagen from seafood during pregnancy, especially mothers with allergies, for the following reasons:

• Pregnant women may experience difficulty breathing, nausea, abdominal pain, and other symptoms such as allergies. This can affect the cardiovascular and nervous systems at a more severe level, endangering both mother and fetus.

• Reduce the risk of morning sickness due to the fishy taste of seafood: Some types of collagen made from sea fish often have a fishy smell, causing nausea in pregnant women. Pregnant women are very sensitive to fishy smells during pregnancy.

Instead, mothers should use collagen from plants (spirulina, sea buckthorn, natural herbs) or chicken or other animal bones such as pork, cow, or buffalo.

Benefits of Using Collagen During Pregnancy:

Pregnant mothers need to provide many good vitamins and nutrients. In addition, collagen products provide many useful sources of nutrients for pregnant mothers. Some outstanding benefits that pregnant mothers receive when using collagen are.

Good for hair, skin, and joints

Hair loss, dry skin, and joint pain are hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Continuous absorption of hydrolyzed collagen helps improve skin, make hair stronger and thicker, and increase skin and hair moisture. In addition, research has shown that hydrolyzed collagen supports bone health by stimulating bone-forming cells, helping bones absorb calcium effectively.

Improve the immune system

The immune system of pregnant mothers is improved thanks to the amino acid components of collagen. This substance is the basis for enzymes that help the digestive system function better, fight inflammation and oxidation, and help the blood sugar to be healthier. Amino acids also create immune antibodies, helping the body fight cancer, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.

Good for sleep

Due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, pregnant women often have difficulty sleeping. These changes cause feelings of anxiety and sadness. At the same time, the increased size of the fetus makes it difficult for pregnant women to sleep. Pregnant women will sleep better if they supplement collagen. Collagen contains glycerin, which is the most abundant amino acid. Supplementing glycerin will help pregnant women sleep better and have better nerve function.

Wounds heal quickly

Collagen also contains vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, and high protein. These are all important components in the metabolism process, helping postpartum wounds not leave scars and recover quickly. Therefore, pregnant women can drink collagen and if used properly, pregnant women will receive many benefits.

Should I Take Collagen While Breastfeeding?

The food and nutrients that a mother takes in affect the quality of breast milk during the period of nursing her newborn. That is why breastfeeding mothers should think carefully before using drugs, functional foods, and inappropriate foods.

The decisive factor in the integrity of collagen functional products for pregnant women is largely the amount of widespread use and the body's adaptability. The fact is that many people react to collagen, which can cause allergies, including acne, rashes, heat in the body, nausea, indigestion, and other symptoms.

To avoid side effects of collagen during pregnancy or breastfeeding, users should consult a specialist before use or report to a doctor.

How to Supplement Collagen Safely and Without Affecting the Fetus?

There are many ways for pregnant women to increase collagen

Foods such as salmon, perch, eggs, red meat, dark green vegetables, soybeans, and strawberries can help increase collagen through diet. Use products containing collagen in the form of creams or collagen injections. But these methods take a long time and the body absorbs little.

Not to mention that collagen injections can cause irritation and can even cause complications. Drinking collagen is currently the most popular method to use today. When pregnant, drinking collagen (usually hydrolyzed collagen) is the best way because it is both convenient and has direct effects, affecting pregnant women from deep within.

Ideal Collagen Dosage for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Mothers

The safety of collagen depends on how it is used and side effects. The ideal collagen usage guidelines for pregnant and lactating women are provided below:

• Ages 20 to 30

Collagen supplementation at the age of 20 can help prevent premature aging and enhance skin resistance. Pregnant women in their 20s. During this period, collagen supplementation for 25-year-olds helps the body recover quickly after giving birth and protects the entire youthful skin. Ideal dosage: 1000mg - 3000mg collagen/day—continuoussupplementation for 1 - 2 months.

• Ages 30 to 40

In the third to thirteenth years, skin aging is faster and the postpartum recovery process is slower. That is why women need to supplement more collagen and prolong the collagen supplementation period.

Conclusion

In short, should pregnant women drink collagen? It has been proven that it is possible to drink collagen. However, to ensure safety for both mother and baby, pregnant women should choose collagen of natural origin. To avoid side effects, consult your doctor before use and use only when permitted by your doctor.