Have you been wondering if taking collagen supplements could be bad for your health? Many people ask a similar question—does collagen clog arteries? 

In this blog post, we’ll look at the science behind collagen and whether or not it can clog your arteries.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of the relationship between collagen and your health and whether or not collagen supplements are safe for you to take.

Read on to learn more about the facts and myths about collagen and artery health.

What is collagen, exactly?

Collagen is a type of protein found in the body, making up about one-third of its total protein composition.

It is the most abundant protein in mammals and plays an important role in providing structure to:

• skin,
• bones,
• muscles,
• tendons,
• ligaments,
• and other connective tissues.

Collagen also helps maintain healthy skin elasticity and joint flexibility.

Common Types of Collagen

The different types of collagen present in the body are:

• type I (skin),
• type II (cartilage),
• and type III (blood vessels).

These three types make up 90% of our skin’s total protein content.

Type I collagen makes up 80% of our skin’s total protein content, while Types II & III make up 10%.

Type I collagen forms a matrix that serves as a protective barrier against external damage and helps facilitate cellular division, thereby aiding wound healing while also maintaining skin hydration.

This same matrix provides support to cells, so they can divide properly, which helps with wound healing. Additionally, it maintains moisture levels within the epidermis, which keeps our skin hydrated and supple-looking.

Type II collagen is mostly found in cartilage tissue, where it provides cushioning between joints allowing them to move freely without pain or discomfort.

It also works together with elastin fibers to help keep these structures flexible yet strong enough for daily activities like walking or running without fear of injury due to excessive strain on joints or muscles caused by poor posture or improper form when lifting weights at the gym.

Therefore, collagen is essential for our overall health and wellbeing. Now, let us explore if collagen can clog arteries or not.

How is collagen produced in the body?

Collagen synthesis, the natural production of collagen within the body, is a complex process.

It involves several steps, which involve enzymes breaking down proteins into amino acids before they are recombined to form new proteins, such as collagen.

Several factors can affect this process, including age and lifestyle choices, such as diet or exercise habits.

As we get older, our bodies produce less collagen due to changes in hormone levels and other physiological processes related to aging.

As a result, it’s important for people over 40 years old to ensure they are getting enough dietary sources of amino acids that help support healthy collagen production, such as gelatin or hydrolyzed type I and III collagens found in foods like:

• fish,
• eggs,
• bone broths,
• soups,
• and stews.

Additionally, supplementing with high high-quality, natural, and organic plant-based superfoods rich in essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients can help further support healthy cell growth, repair, regeneration, and turnover cycles throughout all layers of issues organs.

Also, engaging in a variety of exercises tailored to your goals and objectives can help stimulate the following:

• muscles,
• tendons,
• ligaments,
• joints,
• bones,
• and cartilage discs.

Regular exercise can help you increase flexibility and range of motion while improving posture, balance, coordination, and movement patterns. This not only improves performance but also helps:

• prevent injuries,
• accelerate recovery time,
• reduce pain,
• ease discomfort,
• lessen stiffness,
• decrease soreness,
• and lower inflammation.

Exercise can ultimately enhance your physical fitness for an overall improved quality of life with longevity.

Additionally, regular exercise stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, such as:

• endorphins,
• serotonin,
• dopamine,
• oxytocin,
• cortisol,
• adrenaline,
• and norepinephrine.

This means that exercise can ultimately help you regulate your:

• mood,
• energy,
• metabolism,
• stress response,
• immunity,
• sleep cycle,
• appetite,
• and weight gain or loss, among many others.

Does collagen clog arteries?

Artery health is a major concern for many people.

Atherosclerosis, the buildup of fatty deposits on the walls of arteries, can lead to serious complications such as heart attack and stroke. So, it’s important to know if collagen can clog arteries or not.

The science behind collagen and artery health shows that collagen does not cause atherosclerosis.

Instead, studies show that collagen helps protect against clogging arteries by providing structural support to blood vessels and helping them resist damage from high cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

Also, supplemental collagen, when hydrolyzed, has been found to reduce inflammation which is a factor in the development of atherosclerosis.

Collagen also plays a role in maintaining healthy circulation throughout the body by keeping veins flexible and allowing for a better flow of oxygen-rich blood through them.

Plaque buildup in arteries, which can eventually lead to blockages and other cardiovascular problems, may be prevented by the flexibility of veins enabled by collagen.

How does collagen benefit heart health?

Consuming more dietary sources of protein, such as fish or lean meats, alongside a regular dose of hydrolyzed collagen supplements may further boost cardiovascular health.

This is due to collagen’s anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in better absorption into cells for energy production instead of being stored away as fat around organs like the heart.

Studies have indicated that the use of dietary protein sources, such as fish or lean meats, and hydrolyzed collagen supplements could enhance circulation and lessen inflammation while also decreasing LDL cholesterol levels and boosting HDL cholesterol levels—all important aspects for ideal arterial health.

What are the benefits of collagen supplements?

Collagen supplements offer numerous benefits beyond just protecting against atherosclerosis—they also promote healthier skin by stimulating new cell growth and improving elasticity, so wrinkles appear less noticeable over time.

Helps Fight Inflammation

Chondroitin sulfate, which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce swelling caused by arthritis or bursitis-type conditions, is also present in collagen supplements providing joint pain relief.

Promotes Skin Elasticity

One major benefit of taking collagen supplements is improved skin elasticity. Collagen helps keep your skin firm and supple by providing essential proteins that make up the connective tissues between cells.

As your body’s natural production of collagen diminishes with age, this can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin. Taking a daily dose of collagen can help reduce these signs of aging by increasing the amount of collagen available for cell regeneration.

Aids Healthy Digestion

Collagen can aid digestion due to its rich content of amino acids needed to break down proteins more efficiently than our bodies alone would otherwise be able to do without supplementation.

Increases Bone Density

Also, supplementing with collagen can help increase bone density, specifically collagen peptides—it has been known to play an integral role in rebuilding bones after injury or fracture.

Improves Joint Health

Collagen provides necessary lubrication for our joints so they stay flexible and strong throughout our lives.

As we age, our bodies produce less natural lubricants leading to stiffness in the joints or even arthritis-like symptoms, such as pain or swelling in certain areas like hands or feet.

By supplementing with additional sources of collagen, like hydrolyzed gelatin capsules or liquid forms, you can increase joint mobility while reducing inflammation at the same time.

Lowers Cholesterol Levels

Consuming more than two grams of hydrolyzed collagen per day, in conjunction with regular exercise, has been linked to lowered cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This supplement can be a great alternative for those wanting to better their cardiovascular health without the use of drugs.

In addition, the omega-3 fatty acids present in this supplement may help reduce inflammation and enhance joint mobility for a healthier lifestyle. With the right use, anyone looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle can take advantage of these benefits.

Keeps Cells Healthy Over Time

Finally, research suggests that supplementing with collagen may have protective effects against certain types of cancer—particularly those related to gastrointestinal issues like colorectal cancer, where having strong arterial walls is especially beneficial for keeping cells healthy over time.

So, not only does collagen provide numerous benefits for our hearts, but it may even protect us from potentially life-threatening illnesses down the line, too.

However, before adding collagen supplements into your routine, it is crucial to talk to your doctor, so you can avoid unwanted side effects.

Is collagen safe to take?

Collagen is generally safe for the majority of individuals when taken as instructed on the package or in accordance with a healthcare provider’s advice.

While it’s a natural substance found in our bodies, taking collagen supplements can still have potential side effects and should be done with caution.

Digestive discomforts, such as nausea, bloating, flatulence, and bowel irregularity, may be experienced when taking collagen supplements, especially when the dosage is beyond the recommended daily allowance.

The intake of large quantities for extended periods of time can cause a disruption in the gut bacteria due to the abundance of amino acids found within collagen.

To avoid issues, you should start with smaller doses (less than 10 grams per day) and gradually increase your intake over time while monitoring any changes in digestion. Better yet, always make sure that you follow what is recommended in the packaging or by your doctor.

Additionally, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or itching, from consuming certain types of collagen supplements, so it’s important to pay attention to how your body responds when starting out.

Another potential risk associated with taking too much collagen supplement is kidney damage due to excess amounts of protein being filtered through the kidneys at once.

The recommended dosage for adults ranges between 5-15 grams per day, depending on individual needs, so it’s important not to exceed this amount without consulting a doctor first.

Overall, collagen is generally considered safe to take as a supplement. Yet, before ingesting any products with collagen or any kind of supplement, for that matter, it is essential to assess the potential risks associated.

Factors to Consider Before Taking Collagen Supplements

When considering the use of collagen supplements, one must take into account a few factors. First and foremost is safety.

Side Effects

Collagen supplements can have side effects if not taken properly or in the right amounts, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before beginning any supplementation regimen.

Collagen Type

It’s also important to make sure you know what type of collagen supplement you’re taking and how much of each ingredient is included in the product.

Different types of collagen have different benefits, so it’s important to choose one that best suits your needs and goals. It is essential to examine the other components in a collagen supplement, as they may contain minerals or vitamins that could potentially conflict with any current medications you are taking.

For vegans who wish to reap the same health benefits associated with consuming animal-sourced collagen, there are a plethora of alternative options on marketplaces today that offer equal effectiveness without compromising their personal beliefs.

These vegan-friendly supplements provide more bioavailable forms of this protein than plant sources do, meaning that our bodies absorb more of it during digestion rather than excreting it as normal dietary proteins.

Prices and Reviews

Comparing prices and reading customer reviews before investing in a collagen supplement is always advisable. This allows you to gain an understanding of the potency, bioavailability, and effectiveness of the product you are considering.

Additionally, conducting thorough research before investing in a collagen supplement can help guarantee that the money spent is not wasted on something which could be ineffective.

With careful consideration and comparison, you can rest assured you will get the most bang for your buck when selecting your collagen supplement.

FAQs in Relation to Does Collagen Clog Arteries

Does collagen cause plaque in arteries?

No, collagen does not cause plaque in arteries.

Studies have suggested that taking a hydrolyzed collagen supplement may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, which is caused by plaque buildup in arteries, while also improving blood flow and circulation throughout the body, reducing inflammation, and promoting better overall health.

Consuming collagen has been found to be advantageous for blood flow and circulation, lessening inflammation while furthering one’s overall well-being.

Additionally, some studies suggest that consuming more dietary sources of collagen can help protect against cardiovascular disease due to its antioxidant properties.

Can taking collagen increase cholesterol?

No, taking collagen does not increase cholesterol.

Studies have indicated that collagen may promote a healthier lipid profile by decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.

Additionally, some studies suggest that consuming more dietary sources of collagen can help improve overall lipid profiles and lower triglycerides. Hence, it is plausible that taking collagen as a supplement will not result in an increase in either total or LDL cholesterol levels.

Can collagen cause blood clots?

No scientific evidence has been found to suggest that collagen may lead to an increased risk of blood clots or any other cardiovascular issues.

Conclusion

To sum up, collagen is a key element of our body’s architecture and provides us with essential wellbeing.

While the question “does collagen clog arteries” may seem like a simple one to answer, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration before deciding if taking supplemental forms of this protein will benefit your artery health or not.

For optimal health, it is best to consult your doctor regarding the type and amount of collagen supplementation that may be beneficial.

Try Organixx’s clean and organic supplements to help you maintain a healthier lifestyle. Our collagen-rich products are designed to help keep your arteries clear while promoting overall wellness.

Organixx Clean Sourced Collagens blend contains five types of collagen from four sources. What’s more, it’s combined with targeted nutrients such as zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 which specifically enhance the bioavailability and potency of collagen. Clean Sourced Collagens is formulated from the ground up to enhance and support your body’s natural ability to heal and rebuild itself from the INSIDE out.

“Researchers have theorized that collagen supplements may help reduce the risk of heart conditions.”

Gavin Van De Walle, MS, RD, Benefits of Taking Collagen Supplements

Collagen plays an important role in keeping us healthy. There are lots to be said about collagen and lots of questions that need answering. Let’s take a look at one particular question that is asked often and questions that arise from it: ‘Does collagen clog arteries?’

Other important information provided includes what is collagens role in regard to how it interacts with a blood vessel, and whether it lowers blood pressure.

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What exactly is Collagen?

Collagen is a protein found in the connective tissues of our bodies, including the skin, muscles, tendons, and bones. It’s one of the most abundant proteins in the human body, and it plays an important role in maintaining the structure and integrity of our tissues.

It is also a less commonly known fact that collagen also protects our blood vessels, can help reduce blood pressure, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, and keeps blood flowing! Collagen is made up of long chains of amino acids, which give it its strength and flexibility.

As we age, our bodies produce less collagen which can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin as well as joint pain and stiffness.

How Does Collagen Affect Your Heart?

Collagen also plays an important role in heart health. It helps to repair damaged blood vessels and prevents the formation of plaque in the arteries. Plaque can lead to heart attacks and strokes, so getting enough collagen is essential for maintaining a healthy heart.

Furthermore, collagen has been shown to promote heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 

Now on to the question at hand: does collagen clog arteries? The short answer is no. Collagen does not clog arteries. In fact, there’s some evidence that taking collagen supplements can actually help improve cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar levels. 

So there you have it! Collagen does not clog arteries, and might even help improve cardiovascular health.

Benefits of Collagen

In addition to improving the appearance of our skin, collagen also has other benefits. It helps to strengthen our bones and joints, promotes wound healing, and can even improve gut health. It can also help to improve the condition of your hair and nails.

In addition, collagen has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for those suffering from conditions like arthritis.

Collagen is a vital protein that plays an important role in our overall heart health as well, surrounding every blood vessel and providing structure and protecting against damage. As we know the importance of our blood vessels and the role they play in keeping our blood flowing, it is no surprise we should be concerned with their overall health.

Joint Pain

When it comes to joint pain, collagen is often cited as a potential treatment or preventive measure. Collagen can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. It can also improve joint function and reduce the risk of future injuries. 

Skin Health

When it comes to skin health, collagen is often hailed as a miracle ingredient. And for good reason – collagen is a protein that helps to support the structure of the skin. It’s found in the dermis, the middle layer of the skin, where it provides strength and elasticity.

As we age, our bodies produce less and less collagen, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. That’s where collagen supplements come in.

By replenishing the body’s supply of this vital protein, collagen supplements can help to reduce the signs of aging and promote healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Hair Health

When it comes to hair health, collagen is beneficial in a few different ways. First, it helps to improve hair elasticity, which means that it’s less likely to break. It also helps to add volume and body to the hair, giving it a thicker, fuller appearance.

Finally, collagen can help to nourish the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

While our bodies naturally produce collagen, the production declines as we age. This is one of the reasons why hair loss is more common in older adults. By supplementing with collagen, we can help to keep our hair healthy and prevent premature aging.

Anti-Aging Benefits

When there is less collagen in our bodies, it leads to wrinkles, sagging skin, and thinning hair. Supplementing with collagen can help to reverse these signs of aging by replenishing the body’s supply of this important protein. 

Not only does collagen improve the appearance of the skin, but it also has other anti-aging benefits. It helps to improve joint health, promote healthy hair and nails, and boost metabolism. Collagen is a powerful anti-aging tool that is an easy way to improve your overall health and well-being as you age.

There are some studies that support the belief that an increased amount of collagen peptides that contain glycine, one of the primary amino acids can help with overall heart health and reduce high blood pressure.

Improved Digestion

A major component of the digestive system, collagen helps to form a protective barrier around the gut. Studies have shown that consuming collagen peptides can promote a healthy digestive system by helping to reduce inflammation and repair the gut lining.

In addition, collagen has been shown to improve digestion by increasing the production of stomach acid and improving motility. 

Are There Any Risks When Taking Collagen?

Collagen is a popular dietary supplement that many people take for its purported health benefits. However, there are a few potential risks to be aware of before taking collagen.

First, collagen is derived from animal sources, so it may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Additionally, some people may be allergic to collagen or experience gastrointestinal upset after taking it such as bloating or gas. This is usually caused by the body’s inability to break down collagen. People with food allergies or sensitivities may also need to avoid collagen, as it can contain small amounts of allergens. 

Finally, collagen supplements have not been extensively studied, so their long-term safety is not known. Overall though, collagen appears to be safe for most people.

Can You Take Too Much Collagen?

Many people take collagen supplements in the hope of preventing age-related changes. But, can you take too much collagen? The answer is yes.

While there are no serious side effects of taking too many collagen peptides, you may experience some digestive issues if you exceed the recommended dosage. This is because your body can’t break down and absorb large amounts of protein at once.

If you do experience digestive upset after taking collagen supplements, try reducing your dosage or taking it with a meal to help your body process it more easily.

Reactions To Look Out For:

Stomach Issues

If you take more collagen than your body needs, you could experience side effects such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and sometimes vomiting. 

Stomach pain, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue are also a sign of having taken more collagen than your body can handle.

Liver Issues

Taking too much collagen can also cause more serious side effects, such as liver damage. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential risks before taking this supplement.

If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it’s important to stop taking collagen supplements and drink plenty of fluids. In most cases, the symptoms of taking too much collagen are relatively mild and will resolve on their own.

However, if you experience severe symptoms or your symptoms persist, it’s important to seek medical attention.

How To Boost Your Collagen Levels

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to boost your collagen levels as you age to help keep your skin looking healthy and young.

Eat Collagen Rich Foods

One way to boost collagen production is to eat foods that are rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body to produce collagen, so foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli are all good choices. You can also take a vitamin C supplement if you don’t think you’re getting enough through your diet.

Eating foods that are rich in collagen peptides such as bone broth, fish and gelatin is a dietary option to boost your collagen levels.

Increase Vitamin D Intake

Another way to promote collagen production is to expose your skin to sunlight for short periods of time. This helps trigger the body’s natural vitamin D production, which also aids in collagen production. Just be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Topical Products

You can use topical products that contain ingredients like retinol or hyaluronic acid, which have been shown to help stimulate collagen production.

Let’s take a look at how antioxidants can boost your collagen levels. 

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are molecules that help to protect your cells from damage. They do this by scavenging harmful toxins called free radicals. Free radicals can cause all sorts of damage to your body, and they’re one of the main reasons why our skin starts to age. By using antioxidants, you can help to protect your cells and prevent some of the damage that leads to wrinkles and fine lines.

Antioxidants also help to stimulate the production of new collagen fibers while also helping to reduce the breakdown of existing collagen fibers. 

There are many different antioxidants out there, but some of the most popular ones include vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract. You can find these ingredients in many different skincare products, including serums, creams, and masks.

So if you’re looking for a way to boost your collagen supplements and keep your skin looking young and healthy, make sure to look for products that contain antioxidants!

Final Thoughts

So, let’s do a recap, does collagen clog arteries? No! There is enough evidence to say that collagen does not clog arteries, restrict blood flow, cause constriction of blood vessels, or increase blood pressure.

We hope that you have found this article very enlightening and that all your questions were answered but don’t stop here.  Be sure to check out our health blog and our collagen product page. An informed decision is the best decision! 

Organixx Clean Sourced Collagens blend contains five types of collagen from four sources. What’s more, it’s combined with targeted nutrients such as zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 which specifically enhance the bioavailability and potency of collagen. Clean Sourced Collagens is formulated from the ground up to enhance and support your body’s natural ability to heal and rebuild itself from the INSIDE out.