The placental barrier serves to protect the developing foetus from potentially harmful substances. It allows the transfer of essential nutrients, oxygen, and certain medications, while limiting the passage of larger molecules, toxins, and some drugs.
Collagen is a very large protein molecule, and large proteins cannot freely cross the placental barrier. However, to work, collagen based supplements need to ensure that collagen peptides are absorbed into the bloodstream. Although these are still technically proteins, they are only a few amino acids long; indeed, to be efficiently absorbed into the bloodstream, in the small intestine, they need to have a molecular weight of 2,000 Da or less.
The ability of a molecule to cross the placenta depends on various factors, including its size, charge, and lipid solubility. In general, smaller molecules have a higher likelihood of crossing the placental barrier compared to larger ones. A molecule with a Dalton weight of 2,000 or less falls within the range of small molecules. It is therefore possible that collagen peptides may be able to cross the placenta.
However, it is important to note that research is needed to determine the extent to which collagen peptides can cross the placental barrier, as well as any potential effects on foetal development.
For this reason, we at INGENIOUS always recommend that during pregnancy, you should consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement, including collagen based supplements.
As with pregnancy, there is limited research specifically addressing the safety of collagen peptide supplements whilst breastfeeding.
Since all collagen peptides are derived from animal sources, it’s important to consider potential allergies or sensitivities in both the breastfeeding parent and the infant.
If you are considering taking a collagen based supplement, or any other supplement, while breastfeeding we at INGENIOUS always recommend that you consult with your healthcare provider who can evaluate your individual circumstances. They can provide personalised guidance based on your health status, any specific dietary requirements, and the needs of your breastfeeding baby.
There is limited research addressing the issue of collagen based supplementation whilst pregnant or breastfeeding. For this reason, we at INGENIOUS recommend a cautionary approach if you are considering supplementation during this period.
We recommend that, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, you should consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement, including collagen based supplements.
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