Collagen is a very pure and very bioavailable (easy to digest and absorb) form of protein. It contains 18 amino acids, including 8 out of the 9 essential amino acids. It is especially high in glycine, hydroxyproline and proline, which have been associated with maintaining the integrity of the intestinal wall, plus it also contains large quantities of glutamic acid, arginine, lysine and threonine, all of which have been associated with protecting cells, especially those in the gutl, against harmful substances. So yes, collagen can offer support for leaky gut, as well as numerous other digestive health conditions.
However, before we jump right in and answer, let’s briefly look at the condition itself and better understand what it is and what causes it.
What is leaky gut?
There are different schools of thought about what leaky gut is and what causes it.
Here at Edible Health we support those who believe it is the result of substances like undigested food, toxins and germs that move through a porous intestinal wall. They enter the bloodstream, setting off the immune system to attack and therefore causing inflammation throughout the body.
However, the good can also exist with the bad. In other words - this syndrome can leak quality nutrients as well as toxins. As a result, the full value of vitamins and minerals normally provided through food can be compromised.
Health conditions associated with leaky gut
There are various health conditions believed to be associated with leaky gut, for instance:
- Skin problems
- Autoimmune conditions
- Food sensitivities
- Mental health issues
Just remember, though, this is not medical advice. Consequently, if you think you have symptoms resembling leaky gut syndrome we recommend you seek expert medical advice and get a professional diagnosis.
Collagen and leaky gut
Collagen is a form of protein. The body relies on protein to do so much, not least of all to provide the amino acids that help it build and regulate tissues, as well as repair and heal.
Glycine and leaky gut
As we mentioned earlier, leaky gut may cause inflammation. This in turn can contribute to a variety of illnesses including:
- Obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Arthritis
Collagen contains glycine, which is an amino acid believed to help reduce inflammation in the body.
So is collagen a leaky gut cure?
We believe collagen may help heal leaky gut.
When it comes to this condition, the easy to absorb, high levels of amino acids in collagen are particularly valuable in strengthening our gut wall. As a result, this helps the body to keep nutrients where they need to be, and toxins where they definitely should not be!
What is the best collagen for leaky gut?
Edible Health’s Digestive Enzyme Collagen is designed for leaky gut. As we say, it is made to “heal and seal” the gut.
Its benefits may include:
- Improves digestion
- Reduces bowel inflammation
- Reduces food sensitivities
- Encourages normal cognitive and immune system function
- Promotes metabolism
- Encourages muscle function
What ingredients are in Digestive Enzyme Collagen?
Not only does this contain our Premium Hydrolysed Bovine Collagen Powder, but it contains a plethora of super nutrients renowned for the gut healing goodness:
- Turmeric (powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties)
- Psyllium (dietary fibre)
- N-acetyl-l-glutamine (a water-soluble form of glutamine)
- Slippery elm (traditionally taken to treat conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, and urinary tract infections)
- Acacia (water-soluble dietary fibre)
- MCT (easily-digestible source of energy)
- Digestive enzymes
- NAG (N-Acetyl Glucosamine - helps to reduce inflammation)
- Liquorice (traditionally used to soothe gastro upsets)
- Quercetin (natural pigment with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties)
- Aloe vera (natural enzyme used to break down sugars, fats and maintain good digestion)
- Zinc (may reduce inflammation)
- Vitamin D3 (may help reduce over-production of anti-inflammatory proteins)
- Probiotics (help achieve a balanced micro ecosystem in the gut)
These ingredients deliver an absolute treasure chest of goodies to the gut, including:
- Amino acids
- Vitamins
- Probiotics
- Minerals
- Enzymes
- Triglycerides (used for energy in-between meals)
- Herbs
How much and how often should you take Digestive Enzyme Collagen?
A daily serving of 15g, so the equivalent of roughly two level tablespoons per day (depending on your spoon size!), is our general recommendation.
In saying that, we are all individuals.
As a result some people may need more to complement their exercise regimes. Others may need less due to health or other personal reasons. You can take it all at once, maybe in a smoothie or a juice, or you can stagger it throughout the day. Consider it for your morning coffee, porridge, soup or even your evening meal. Spaghetti Bolognese is a favourite in our team. It’s totally flexible and versatile and designed to suit your tastes and needs.
The key to success is consistency and persistency, so just remember to take your serve every day and be patient. The body takes time to heal, and
it can take up to 8-12 weeks to notice benefits as often our bodies heal from the inside out. That said,some of our customers have reported changes in a matter of days!
Aside from taking a supplement, what else can you do to help prevent leaky gut?
Science is increasingly turning to the intestine and its link to overall health and well-being.
There are many ways we can better look after our gut, not least of all with regular intake of collagen. These include:
- Regular, quality sleep
- Reducing anxiety
- Minimising frequent use of antibiotics
- Avoiding foods that can damage the gut or cause inflammation such a wheat, dairy, grains, nightshades, alcohol and sugar.
In conclusion, can collagen heal leaky gut? We believe it can!
We hope you’ve found this article useful! In addition if you’re interested in other health and well-being topics, be sure to check out our Blog.
The information we have provided herewith, and all linked materials, are not intended nor should they be construed as medical advice. Moreover, the information herewith should not be used as a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.
