Studies have consistently shown a positive correlation between collagen and estrogen levels. That means the more collagen you have, the more estrogen you're likely to have.
Collagen has minimal effect on hormones since it contains subtypes that are found in our bodies. Most people tolerate it well and it is extremely bioavailable.
One of the direct connections between estrogen levels and collagen production is in estrogen receptors—specifically in the ERβ receptors located (estrogen beta receptor) on specialized “manufacturing” cells called fibroblasts, which produce collagen.
It isn't going to raise your estrogen or lower your testosterone levels – so there's no reason men shouldn't take collagen. The truth is, everyone needs collagen for multiple reasons. Everyone regardless of gender can reap the benefits of adding collagen to their diet.
How Often Should You Take Collagen? According to Pam Hartnett, MPH, RDN, “Collagen is generally considered a safe supplement to day daily. In fact, most studies that found a benefit to collagen supplementation looked at consistent daily intake and none of these studies found significant side effects.”
So far, research hasn't shown that collagen supplements increase or decrease estrogen production. However, in one animal study published in International Journal of Medical Sciences, scientists fed collagen hydrolysate to rats designed to mimic menopausal women with declining estrogen.
There are no studies that show that collagen increases testosterone levels. One study shows an increase in muscle mass, strength and body composition in elderly men who take collagen combined with weight training (10).
Collagen injections can be used around the breast tissue to the same effect, enhancing the skin and providing a lift to enhance and enlarge the bust, helping you boost a cup size or two.
High estrogen levels can cause symptoms such as irregular or heavy periods, weight gain, fatigue, and fibroids in females. In males, they can cause breast tissue growth, erectile dysfunction, and infertility.
Estrogen helps to stimulate collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production that helps the skin to stay plump and firm. Progesterone stimulates the production of sebum or the oil glands in the skin. It can cause the skin to swell, and compress the look of pores. Too much of it, however, can lead to oil build up.
So, is collagen good for men? Absolutely — and here's why. Collagen has long been associated with women's health and skincare, but it's just as important for men. All human bodies produce collagen, and all human bodies need enough collagen to function properly.
Human collagen helps cells produce testosterone.
Collagen and mood
Ingesting collagen as your main form of protein can potentially lead to a deficit in tryptophan. A decrease in tryptophan results in lower serotonin levels and has the potential to cause feelings of anxiety, irritability, and depression (particularly if you already suffer from a mood disorder.)
Based on the current evidence, it's unlikely that collagen has any impact on the menstrual cycle. However, more research on body composition is needed to confirm this. If you're interested in ingesting collagen supplements for other health reasons, such as improving your skin or joint health, then it's safe to do so.
The protein is widely known for its array of health properties and there is evidence emerging that shows it can also have a powerful impact on how you look. Many essential beauty features such as youthful skin, plump lips, thick and full hair, to name a few, require ample amounts of collagen.
The authors report that the presence of collagen peptides diminished the effect of cortisol-dependent reduction in procollagen type I. This suggests that at a cellular level, collagen peptides may modulate the effects of cortisol.
Anyone can benefit from adding a collagen supplement to their routine. In women, it can be especially useful for targeting changes related to menopause. * Women may need a smaller dose than men, but it also depends on factors like activity level and body mass.
Some adverse reactions to collagen supplements include headaches, digestive issues, fatigue, and skin rashes. If you experience any of these side effects after taking collagen, stop taking it and speak to your doctor.
Estrogen insufficiency decreases defense against oxidative stress; skin becomes thinner with less collagen, decreased elasticity, increased wrinkling, increased dryness and reduced vascularity.
Collagen peptides have been safely used in doses up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 months. Side effects are rare.
Experts recommend using collagen according to a very effective course. A course of about 2-3 months and about 3-4 courses per year, between courses should have a break of 1-2 months. This is to help the body promote the effectiveness of collagen to each organ in the body.
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.