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Collagen Hydrolyzed Chicken

Also known as: Collagen hydrolysate (from chicken), Collagen Type I and II hydrolysate, Protein hydrolysates (chicken origin), Hydrolyzed chicken collagen, Chicken collagen peptides, Collagen peptides (chicken), Collagen Hydrolysate (Chicken)

Overview

Hydrolyzed chicken collagen is a supplement derived from chicken connective tissues, broken down into smaller peptides for enhanced absorption. It's a rich source of amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, naturally found in chicken skin, cartilage, and bones. Primarily, it's used to improve skin health by enhancing hydration and elasticity, and reducing wrinkles. It is also used for joint health, aiming to reduce pain and stiffness, and improve joint function. The supplement is highly bioavailable due to its low molecular weight. Research on hydrolyzed chicken collagen is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses available, though more research is needed for definitive conclusions, especially regarding long-term effects and specific populations. The quality of evidence is generally good for skin health and moderate for joint health.

Benefits

Hydrolyzed chicken collagen offers benefits primarily for skin and joint health. Meta-analyses indicate significant improvements in skin hydration (effect size 1.01, 95% CI 0.24–1.78) and elasticity (effect size 1.27, 95% CI 0.19–2.35) compared to placebo. These improvements are clinically meaningful for cosmetic enhancement and have been observed consistently in women aged 20–70. For joint health, studies report reduced pain and stiffness, along with improved function in healthy adults experiencing joint discomfort, although the effect sizes are less consistently quantified. Some evidence suggests potential cardiovascular benefits, such as blood pressure reduction in individuals with mild hypertension when taking 2.9 g/day for 12 weeks, but these findings require further validation.

How it works

Hydrolyzed chicken collagen works through several biological pathways. In the skin, collagen peptides stimulate fibroblast activity, leading to increased synthesis of the extracellular matrix and improved skin barrier function. This process enhances skin hydration and elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. For joint health, it may reduce inflammation, support cartilage integrity, and modulate the immune response. The low molecular weight of hydrolyzed collagen ensures it is well-absorbed, with peptides distributed to the skin and joints. Its molecular targets include fibroblasts, chondrocytes, and extracellular matrix components, primarily affecting skin and connective tissues with limited systemic effects.

Side effects

Hydrolyzed chicken collagen is generally recognized as safe for most adults. Common side effects are rare, with occasional mild gastrointestinal discomfort reported. Uncommon side effects are very rare, with no significant reports in clinical trials. Rare side effects include allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with poultry allergies. There are no known significant drug interactions. Contraindications include allergy to poultry or collagen products. Special population considerations indicate it is safe for most adults; however, there is insufficient data for pregnant or lactating women, so caution is advised. Individuals with known allergies to poultry products should avoid hydrolyzed chicken collagen to prevent potential allergic reactions.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of hydrolyzed chicken collagen is 2.5–3 g/day for both skin and joint benefits. Optimal dosage ranges from 2.5–10 g/day, depending on the specific application (skin vs. joint health). The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 10 g/day are generally well-tolerated. It can be taken at any time of day, with consistency being more important than timing. Powder or capsule forms are common, and it is crucial to ensure the product is hydrolyzed for optimal absorption. While no specific cofactors are required, adequate vitamin C intake may support collagen synthesis. The hydrolyzed form is preferred to maximize bioavailability.

FAQs

Is hydrolyzed chicken collagen safe?

Yes, it is generally safe for most people. However, those with poultry allergies should avoid it. Monitor for any allergic reactions.

When should I take it and for how long?

Take it daily for at least 8–12 weeks to see visible benefits in skin and joints. Consistency is key for optimal results.

What results can I expect?

Expect improved skin hydration and elasticity, reduced wrinkles, and modest joint pain relief. It's not a cure for advanced joint disease.

Is it a cure for joint pain?

No, it is not a cure for advanced joint disease. Benefits are cosmetic and supportive, not curative. Consult a healthcare professional for comprehensive treatment.

Research Sources

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ijd.15518 – This study investigates the effects of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation on skin aging. The meta-analysis of 19 studies with 1,125 participants (mostly women aged 20–70) found significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction compared to placebo after 8–12 weeks of supplementation, indicating a robust methodology with a low risk of bias.
https://gomitasc3.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Collagen-suplementation-on-skin-aging.pdf – This meta-analysis examines the impact of collagen supplementation on skin aging. The review includes multiple studies and focuses on improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction. The findings suggest that collagen supplementation can be an effective strategy for mitigating the effects of skin aging, though heterogeneity in study designs should be considered.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effects-of-collagen-peptide-supplementation-on-cardiovascular-markers-a-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis-of-randomised-placebocontrolled-trials/D1BD51038B71D9A9BCA7880B1F6649F0 – This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the effects of collagen peptide supplementation on cardiovascular markers. The analysis of multiple RCTs, including healthy and hypertensive adults, found that 2.9 g/day reduced blood pressure in mild hypertension, but had no significant effect on lipids or glucose in healthy individuals. The study's moderate quality and variable dosages and populations should be considered when interpreting the results.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742704/ – This study is a meta-analysis on the effects of collagen supplementation on skin aging. It highlights significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction. The study suggests that collagen supplementation can be an effective strategy for mitigating the effects of skin aging.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34371963/ – This RCT examines the impact of collagen supplementation on joint health. The study found reduced joint pain and stiffness, and improved function in healthy adults with joint discomfort. The study is limited by its small sample size and potential industry funding, but it provides evidence for the potential benefits of collagen supplementation on joint health.