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Hydrolyzed Chicken Collagen

Also known as: Hydrolyzed collagen, HC, Collagen peptides, Collagen hydrolysate, Hydrolyzed Collagen

Overview

Hydrolyzed collagen, particularly hydrolyzed chicken collagen, is a protein-derived nutraceutical produced by enzymatically breaking down chicken-derived collagen into low-molecular-weight peptides. While research often focuses on fish collagen, chicken collagen has shown promise, especially for skin health. It primarily aims to improve skin hydration and elasticity. The evidence base is growing, with recent meta-analyses supporting its benefits, although chicken-specific data remains somewhat limited. Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are absorbed intact and stimulate collagen synthesis. It is available in powder, capsule, and gummy forms and sourced from animal connective tissues.

Benefits

Hydrolyzed chicken collagen primarily benefits skin health. Studies show significant improvements in skin hydration (overall effect size 1.01 vs. placebo) and elasticity (effect size 1.27). It also contributes to wrinkle reduction, with studies showing significant improvements in wrinkle depth and volume. Some research suggests potential benefits for nail strength, although this is not specific to chicken collagen. While mechanistically plausible, the benefits for joint health are understudied for chicken collagen specifically. Early effects, such as hydration improvements, can be seen within 4 weeks, while peak effects for elasticity and wrinkle reduction typically occur between 8-12 weeks.

How it works

Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are absorbed intact via the intestinal PepT1 transporter. Once absorbed, they stimulate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production, through di/tri-peptide signaling. These peptides also exhibit antioxidant activity, with Gly-Pro-Hyp sequences scavenging free radicals. Furthermore, hydrolyzed collagen modulates the extracellular matrix (ECM) by upregulating the production of hyaluronic acid and proteoglycans, which are essential components for skin hydration and structure.

Side effects

Hydrolyzed chicken collagen is generally considered safe, but some side effects have been reported. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort (2-5% incidence). Uncommon side effects include transient nausea (1-2%). Rare side effects include allergic reactions (less than 0.1%). It is contraindicated for individuals with poultry allergies. There is a lack of safety data regarding use during pregnancy, so it should be avoided unless medically supervised. No significant drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised when taking with other supplements or medications.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of hydrolyzed collagen is generally considered to be 2.5g per day, although this is based on general collagen data. The optimal dosage range is typically between 5-10g per day. It is recommended to take hydrolyzed collagen with meals containing vitamin C, as vitamin C enhances absorption. For clinical effects, supplementation should be continued for a minimum of 8 weeks. There is no established upper limit, but exceeding recommended dosages may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

FAQs

How does chicken collagen compare to marine collagen?

Limited direct comparisons exist. Chicken collagen may offer theoretical advantages for joint health due to its type II collagen content, but skin studies show comparable efficacy across sources when dosed equivalently.

Can vegetarians use hydrolyzed chicken collagen?

No, hydrolyzed chicken collagen is strictly animal-derived and therefore not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

When can I expect to see results from taking hydrolyzed chicken collagen?

You may notice hydration improvements within 4-6 weeks, while structural changes like improved elasticity and wrinkle reduction typically require 8 or more weeks of consistent supplementation.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/ – This 2023 meta-analysis, a systematic review of 26 RCTs (n=1,721), found that hydrolyzed collagen improved skin hydration and elasticity. While the analysis showed high heterogeneity, it included a chicken collagen RCT (n=30) that demonstrated comparable efficacy to other collagen sources.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742704/ – A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 RCTs (n=1,125) revealed that hydrolyzed collagen supplementation led to significant improvements in wrinkles, elasticity, and hydration. The review validated a 90-day supplementation protocol for observing these benefits, although it included some industry-funded studies.
https://www.cureus.com/articles/207671-exploring-the-impact-of-hydrolyzed-collagen-oral-supplementation-on-skin-rejuvenation-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis – This 2023 meta-analysis of 14 studies found that hydrolyzed collagen supplementation improved skin hydration within 4 weeks. While the review had a short-term focus, it established the early-phase benefits of collagen supplementation on skin hydration.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ijd.15518 – This study investigated the effects of collagen supplementation on skin aging. It showed significant improvements in wrinkles, elasticity, and hydration with consistent collagen intake. The research provides evidence for the anti-aging properties of collagen supplements.
https://gomitasc3.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Collagen-suplementation-on-skin-aging.pdf – This document discusses collagen supplementation and its effects on skin aging. It highlights the benefits of collagen in improving skin hydration, elasticity, and reducing wrinkles. The information supports the use of collagen supplements for maintaining youthful skin.