It started with a single scoop.
At 32, Ellie thought adding collagen to her morning smoothie would be a simple way to support her skin and joints. Influencers swore by it. Health blogs praised it. But a week in, her skin was breaking out, her stomach felt uneasy, and she began to wonder—is taking collagen safe long term?
She’s not alone.
As collagen supplements rise in popularity, so do the questions. Whether you’re reaching for collagen peptides, powders, or collagen gummies, it’s crucial to understand the side effects of taking collagen—especially if you plan to make it a daily ritual.
Can Collagen Cause Bloating or Weight Gain?
Some users, like Ellie, have reported bloating and mild digestive discomfort. This tends to occur with lower-quality powders or products containing fillers. In certain cases, collagen supplements have been associated with weight gain, although the connection is often indirect. Increased appetite from protein intake might play a role.
How Collagen Can Affect the Kidneys and Liver
Concerns about collagen supplement side effects on kidneys are often raised, especially by those with pre-existing kidney conditions. High-protein supplements may increase the workload on kidneys over time. Likewise, people have asked, is collagen bad for your liver? While there’s no direct evidence linking clean collagen to liver damage, excessive intake may not be advisable for those with liver concerns.
How much collagen is too much? For most healthy adults, 2.5 to 10 grams daily is considered safe. But dosage should be reviewed with a healthcare provider—especially for long-term use.
Unexpected Skin and Hormonal Reactions
For some, collagen and acne side effects may appear after starting supplementation. This could be due to changes in gut flora, hormonal balance, or added ingredients in flavored powders or collagen gummies. Reports also include questions like: can collagen supplements cause hair loss? While rare, reactions to certain amino acids or allergens could be to blame.
Others have wondered whether collagen affects hormone balance. Though natural collagen is not hormonal, some formulations—especially blends for women over 30—may include added ingredients that influence estrogen or cortisol levels.
Who Should Not Take Collagen Supplements?
Individuals with allergies to fish, eggs, or shellfish should read labels carefully. Those with chronic kidney disease, liver conditions, or digestive disorders may want to avoid or limit intake altogether. It’s also wise for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
Best Collagen with Least Side Effects
Ellie eventually found relief by switching to a clean collagen supplement without side effects—one that was non-GMO, hydrolyzed, and specifically designed for sensitive stomachs. These types of products tend to be more bioavailable and easier to digest.
Some brands now offer collagen for women over 30 with no additives, avoiding artificial sweeteners, dairy, and gluten. If you’ve experienced nausea and wondered, “Why do I feel sick after taking collagen?”—chances are, switching to a cleaner formula can make a big difference.
Conclusion: Are There Any Dangers of Taking Collagen Daily?
For most healthy individuals, daily collagen intake is safe—when used wisely. But as Ellie’s story shows, the side effects of taking collagen aren’t always obvious at first. From digestive changes to skin flare-ups and hormonal shifts, it pays to listen to your body.
When in doubt, consult a professional, read the label, and start slow. Your collagen journey should support your wellness—not complicate it.