How much collagen per day in mg should I take? Dosage tips
Find out how much collagen to supplement daily to see results.
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.Helps skin, hair nails, joints and much more. Yes, we're talking about collagen, and it can indeed support all of these elements, but... Well, that's just it, but you need to take care with the right dosage.
Even the best-absorbed collagen will not have the desired effect if there is simply not enough of it. That is why, together with clinical nutritionist Julia Skrajda we will tell you how much collagen to take on a daily basis.
The following is a guide.
From this article, you will learn:
- How much collagen to supplement per day.
- How much collagen to supplement.
- Whether recommendations vary depending on expectations.
- Do you need to take more beef collagen than fish collagen.
- Whether you need to take more collagen than fish collagen.
See also:
- The best collagen on the market
- Best collagen for nails
- Best collagen for face
- Best collagen for wrinkles
- Best collagen for skin
- Best collagen for joints
- Best collagen for hair
- Best collagen for cellulite
- Best collagen for acne
- Best collagen for stretch marks
- Best collagen for scars
- Best collagen for bones
- Best collagen for drinking and collagen for drinking (effects)
How much collagen to supplement daily?
Supplement approximately 2,500 to 15,000 mg collagen hydrolysate per day (2.5-15 g). These doses have been studied, and research suggests, that they can produce good results for skin, hair, nails and joints. Smaller portions can also support these elements, but it will usually take longer and the effects may be less noticeableand.
Another strand in the aforementioned study says, that collagen peptides can make up about 36% of your daily protein needs. How much protein you need depends on your age, body weight and lifestyle. The proverbial Smith who weighs 75kg should take in about 60 grams of protein per dayand.
So we can easily calculate that 36% of 60 grams is exactly 21.6 grams of collagen per day. Is this even possible? Probably yes - combining the most powerful collagen supplements with a proper diet can provide you with around 20 grams of collagen per day. Keep in mind, however, that there is a lack of research focusing on the effects of taking such high doses.
What's more, supplements that provide only 300 mg (yes, mg) of collagen in combination with other ingredients can have effects on, for example, hair. But about that in the next section.
What is the daily dose of collagen for joints, skin, hair and nails?
The general dosage of collagen is quite broad. However, some studies have examined the effects of specific doses on specific elements of the body.
Dosing of collagen on the skin
The first was a meta-analysis of studies conducted on a total of 1125 participants (95% of whom were women) aged 20-70 years. Under the microscope was hydrolysed fish collagen at a dose of 2,500 mgand.
After 90 days of regular supplementation, participants noticed an improvement in the appearance and tone of their skin. What's more, under the magnifying glass (now literally) the participants' skin density was taken by the researchers - it too improved.
Another study tested the effect of collagen on skin dryness. This test involved more than 1,000 people who chose to take 5,000 mg of collagen daily. After 12 weeks, the participants' skin was more hydrated and again the density improvedand.
See also:
- Collagen for the skin
- Facial collagen
- Collagen for wrinkles
- Collagen for cellulite
- Collagen for stretch marks
- Collagen for acne
- Collagen for scars
How many mg of collagen per day for joints?
One study tested the effects of hydrolysed collagen on patients with primary knee osteoarthritis. It involved 250 participants who received 10 grams of collagen hydrolysate daily for 6 monthsand.
Patients' condition improved and knee joint comfort increased significantly. The effects were best in patients with the worst joint condition (at the start of the study) and in those whose dietary intake protein was lowest.
Another study tested the effect of 40 mg of undenatured type II collagen produced from chicken sternum cartilage on relieving symptoms in people with osteoarthritis. After 180 days, the supplement not only relieved the symptoms of the affected knee joint, but was also well tolerated. The study involved 191 patientsand.
See also:
- Collagen for joints
- Collagen for tennis elbow
- Collagen for tendons
- Collagen for runners
- Collagen for bones
- Collagen for athletes
Daily dose of collagen for hair
Clinical studies that test specific doses of collagen for hair are still lacking. However, one has tested the effects of 300 mg of fish collagen in combination with taurine, cysteine, methionine, iron and selenium. The 12-week study involved 83 participants (26 men and 57 women) suffering from excessive hair lossand.
Participants were divided into group A (48 people), which received supplementation and drug treatment, and group B (35 people), which received drug treatment only. The results after six weeks showed higher efficacy in group A compared to group B, and after 12 weeks the difference was even greater.
The supplement was well tolerated, and the study itself suggests that an oral formulation containing fish collagen, taurine, cysteine, methionine, iron and selenium improves the efficacy of specific hair loss medications.
Note
Remember that in the above study, patients were also given additional ingredients that reduce hair loss.
The extent to which collagen is absorbed is influenced by the condition of the digestive system and overall health. Therefore, it is always worth ensuring a balanced diet and compensating for other nutritional deficiencies so that collagen supplementation is more effective. The better the state of the digestive system, the tightness of the intestinal and gastric membranes, the less collagen supplement we will "escape" from the body.
Julia SkrajdaDietitian
What dose of collagen for nails?
A 2017 study examined the effects of collagen on nails. A group of women aged 25-50 took part in the test. For six months, the participants supplemented 2500 mg collagen peptides per day. The effects wereand:
- 42% less incidence of nail breakage.
- 12% higher rate of nail growth.
- 80% of participants admitted that the collagen improved the condition of their nails and that they were satisfied with the result.
Additionally, women noticed fewer irregular edges on their nails, which also positively affected their appearance.
How much fish, beef and pork collagen per day?
The source of collagen does not affect dosage. Whether you take beef collagen, fish collagen or pork collagen, it is recommended that a daily serving should be in the range of 2.5-15 grams.
Research suggests, however, that sea collagen is absorbed up to 50% better than beef or pork collagen. So on paper by taking even less fish collagen than pork or beef collagen, you may be providing greater benefitsand.
This is purely speculation, however, and in the studies we are talking about bioavailability up to 50% better, so it is not always constant.
In brief
Collagen source has no effect on dosage.
Best collagen supplements - ranking
Natu.Care Premium collagen 10 000 mg, mango-maracuja
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg marine collagen hydrolysate
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (and L-theanine and coenzyme Q10 in cocoa flavoured collagen or vitamin A and vitamin E in mango–passion fruit flavoured collagen)
- Form: powder sachets
- Dose: 1 sachet per day
- Sufficient for: 30 days
Product description
One of the strongest collagens on the market, whichós provides as much as 10,000 mg in a daily serving. This allows the formula to effectively support the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
With this supplement, you will support your beauty, which will allow you to visually stop the ageing process and feel a second youth!
Natu.Care Collagen Premium 10 000 mg comes in two flavours – cherry and mango-maracuja. Both formulas have the same product backbone – collagen, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.
In the cherry version you additionally find glucosamine, chondroitin and Indian frankincense resin extract. Mango-maracuja, on the other hand, contains vitamin E and vitamin A.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Tested collagen formula – SeaGarden, whose effects have been confirmed in clinical studies.
- Effective dose of hyaluronic acid, additionally moisturizing the skin and positively impacting joint health.
- Vitamin C supports the body’s natural collagen production.
- The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
- The product has an MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) quality certification – the collagen source supports sustainable fishing practices.
Cons:
- None.
Additional information
Users praise Natu.Care Collagen Premium for the easy dissolvability of the powder.
User review
I noticed a significant improvement in my skin texture after a few weeks of taking collagen regularly. My complexion is now as soft as velvet!
Natu.Care Collagen Premium 10000 mg, cherry
- Collagen content: 10,000 mg of hydrolyzed bovine collagen
- Additional active ingredients: vitamin C, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin, extract of Indian frankincense resin (boswellia serrata)
- Form: powder sachets for drinking
- Serving: 1 sachet per day
- Lasts for: 30 days
Product description
One of the strongest collagens on the market, providing as much as 10,000 mg per daily serving. This product can effectively support the condition of joints, skin, hair, and nails.
With this supplement, you will support your skeletal and joint system as well as your beauty, helping you visually halt the aging process and feel rejuvenated!
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The daily portion of collagen is very large – as much as 10,000 mg.
- Proven collagen formula – COLLinstant, whose effectiveness has been confirmed in clinical studies.
- Effective dose of hyaluronic acid, which additionally moisturizes the skin and positively affects joint health.
- Vitamin C supports the body's natural collagen production.
- Glucosamine is a fundamental building block of compounds found in joint cartilage and a component of collagen that gives elasticity to connective tissue in tendons.
- Chondroitin is a natural component found in the human body, mainly in cartilage. This large molecule (mucopolysaccharide) has the ability to absorb water, which helps maintain the elasticity and resilience of cartilage.
- Frankincense resin extract supports blood circulation and joint mobility and reduces their stiffness. It may help alleviate inflammatory conditions.
- The composition has been tested by the independent and accredited J.S. Hamilton laboratory.
Cons:
- None.
Additional information
Users praise Natu.Care Collagen Premium for the easy dissolving of the powder.
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen
- Collagen content: 12 000 mg marine collagen hydrolysate
- Form: powder
- Dose: 3 tbsp per day
- Sufficient for: 18 days
Product description
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen Peptides is a premium collagen supplement designed for those following pescatarian-friendly diets. This marine collagen powder contains 12g of high-quality collagen peptides per serving, known for supporting skin elasticity, joint health, and overall vitality. Odorless and unflavored, it blends seamlessly into your favorite drinks or recipes, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Made from wild-caught white fish, ensuring a high standard of quality and environmental responsibility.
- Powder dissolves effortlessly in hot or cold beverages.
- Collagen peptides are hydrolyzed for quick absorption.
- Pescatarian-friendly with sustainably sourced ingredients
- Made without gluten / cholesterol / mercury / dairy.
Cons:
- Doesn't contain additional ingredients, e.g vitamin C.
- The packaging isn't sufficient for a whole month.
Orgain Collagen Peptides
- Collagen content: 20 000 mg bovine collagen hydrolysate
- Form: powder
- Dose: 2 scoops per day
- Sufficient for: 22 days
Product description
With 20g of Type I and III collagen peptides per serving, this unflavored, odorless powder easily blends into any beverage or recipe, making it a versatile addition to your daily wellness routine. High dosage enables you to see effects faster.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- High collagen content per serving, hydrolyzed for easier absorption.
- Derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle, ensuring quality and ethical sourcing.
- Unflavored powder can be seamlessly incorporated into coffee, smoothies, soups, and more.
- Non-GMO and free from dairy, soy, gluten, sugar and artificial ingredients.
Cons:
- Doesn't contain additional ingredients, e.g vitamin C.
- The packaging isn't sufficient for a whole month.
Product description
Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein offers a powerful blend of ten types of collagen from four whole-food sources: grass-fed bovine, free-range chicken, wild-caught fish, and eggshell membrane. Formulated with Types I, II, III, V, and X collagen, this powder supports the health of your skin, joints, nails, and gut.
The included SBO probiotics promote gut health, while Vitamin C aids collagen synthesis and boosts immune function, delivering a holistic approach to wellness in every scoop.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Contains 10 types of collagen to support skin, joint, gut, and nail health
- Enriched with clinically studied probiotics and Vitamin C for additional gut and immune benefits
- Versatile vanilla flavor, perfect for adding to smoothies, coffee, or other recipes.
- Paleo and keto-friendly, with no dairy or gluten
Cons:
- Each collagen source (bovine, fish, chicken) requires distinct quality controls. Consumers concerned about sourcing may want to research the origin and processing of each source for peace of mind.
- The producer doesn't specify the percentage composition of the various types of collagen in the product.
Product tiles contain affiliate links. As An Amazon Partner, I earn from qualifying purchases.
See also:
- How to choose collagen
- How to choose collagen to drink
- How to choose collagen powder
- How to choose collagen in sachets
- How to choose liquid collagen
- How to choose collagen in tablets
- How to choose collagen in capsules
How much collagen to take in the diet?
As much as possible! Combining a collagen-rich diet with supplements can only accelerate and improve effects on skin, hair and nailsand.
What are some collagen sources?
- bone broth on beef or pork bones,
- cicken feet,
- goat,
- food gelatine-based products (e.g. vegetable, meat and fruit jellies),
- gastrointestinal products such as liver, heart, kidney,
- salad,
- fish or chicken with skin,
- shark cartilage (source fish collagen).
What about fruit and vegetables?
Vegetables and fruit do not contain collagen - it is an animal protein. But that doesn't mean you can forget about them in the collagen diet. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamins and minerals that support natural collagen production in the body. Which are the most valuable ones?
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Nutrientand |
Vegetables and fruits |
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Manganese |
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Can you overdose on collagen?
Yes, in theory it is possible, but it happens very rarely. It is so unheard of that not even a maximum daily portion of collagen supplementation has been established. Even so, if you consume more of it than your body can assimilate, you may experience some side effects.
What symptoms of excess collagenand?
Tingling or numbness in the fingers and toes.
- Thickening and hardening of the skin.
- Periodontal problems.
- Gastrointestinal problems such as heartburn, flatulence, constipation.
- Joint pain.
- Muscle weakness.
- Heart palpitations.
- Chest pains.
More often than not, however, the problem is the additional active ingredients in collagen supplements, such as vitamins or minerals. Therefore, when taking these supplements, focus on these. And if you notice any worrying symptoms in yourself, stop using collagen immediately and, if necessary, see your doctor.
See also:
- Which collagen is the strongest
- Norwegian collagen
- What is collagen
- Collagen type I
- Collagen type II
- Collagen type III
- Does collagen supplementation make sense
- Collagen deficiency
- Collagen excess
Summary
- Recommended collagen dosage is 2,500 to 15,000 mg of hydrolysate per day.
- Source of collagen (beef, fish, pork) does not affect dosage, but studies suggest better bioavailability of marine collagen.
- Collagen supplementation should be enriched with a diet containing collagen products.
- Fruits and vegetables do not contain collagen but provide vitamins and minerals to support its production in the body.
- Collagen overdose is rare, but can lead to some negative health effects.
FAQ
Is 1,000 mg of collagen enough?
A single serving of 1,000 mg (1 gram) per day may not be enough to experience any benefits of supplementation if your diet is low in collagen. Most studies investigating the effects of collagen supplementation on skin and joints use dosages of 2,5–15 g of hydrolysed collagen.
Is there a difference between collagen types I, II, III?
Yes, the different types of collagen have different functions in the body. Collagen type I makes up the majority of collagen in the body and is the main component of skin, bones, tendons, blood vessels and ligaments. Type II collagen is a key component of joint cartilage, while Type III collagen is important for the health of muscles, blood vessels and internal organs.
Will collagen supplementation replace my healthy diet?
No, collagen supplementation is not a replacement for a balanced diet. While collagen as a supplement can support the health of skin, hair, nails and joints, a healthy diet provides all the essential nutrients important for overall health and well-being.
A balanced diet should include whole grain cereals, protein, fruit and vegetables, healthy fats and plenty of water. Collagen as a supplement should only support, not replace, such dietary habits.
Collagen should be used as a supplement to support, not replace, such dietary habits.
Do hyaluronic acid and vitamin C support the effectiveness of collagen?
Yes, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring component of the skin that promotes hydration and elasticity. In turn, vitamin C is a key element necessary for the production of collagen.
Supplementation with vitamin C can improve the body's natural synthesis of collagen, further enhancing the benefits of taking the youth protein.
Is collagen safe for everyone?
Collagen is generally well tolerated and safe for most people, but some groups should exercise caution. For example, people with allergies to fish or meat products should avoid collagen from these sources.
Also, although rare, some people may experience side effects from drinking collagen, such as stomach pains, dizziness or rashes.
Can you consume collagen during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Collagen is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, there is still a lack of research on pregnant and lactating women, so it is always advisable to consult your doctor before starting any supplementation. Your doctor knows your health situation best and can tailor recommendations to your individual needs.
How long should I supplement with collagen to see results?
To see the first effects of collagen supplementation you usually have to wait from a few weeks to even a few months. It all depends on the condition of the body, lifestyle, diet and individual absorption of the nutrients. Remember, however, that just taking collagen is only half the battle - taking care of a healthy diet and lifestyle is just as important.
Should men also supplement with collagen?
Of course they should. Collagen is important for both men and women. It has a positive effect on the condition of the skin, joints, hair or nails. It helps to maintain a youthful appearance and also aids recovery after training, so it is particularly recommended for physically active people.
Sources
See all
de Miranda, R. B., Weimer, P., & Rossi, R. C.. (2021). Effects of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation on skin aging: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Dermatology, 60(12), 1449-1461. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijd.15518
Hexsel, D., Zague, V., Schunck, M., Siega, C., Camozzato, F. O., & Oesser, S. (2017). Oral supplementation with specific bioactive collagen peptides improves nail growth and reduces symptoms of brittle nails. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 16(4), 520-526. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12393
Paul, C., Leser, S., & Oesser, S. (2019). Significant Amounts of Functional Collagen Peptides Can Be Incorporated in the Diet While Maintaining Indispensable Amino Acid Balance. Nutrients, 11(5), Article 5. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051079
Uhlig, M. R., & Magerle, R. (2017). Unraveling capillary interaction and viscoelastic response in atomic force microscopy of hydrated collagen fibrils. Nanoscale, 9(3), 1244-1256. https://doi.org/10.1039/C6NR07697A
Yang, F.-C., Zhang, Y., & Rheinstädter, M. C. (2014). The structure of people's hair. PeerJ, 2, e619. https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.619
Lugo, J. P., Saiyed, Z. M., & Lane, N. E. (2016). Efficacy and tolerability of an undenatured type II collagen supplement in modulating knee osteoarthritis symptoms: A multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutrition Journal, 15, 14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12937-016-0130-8
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