Collagen for Gut Health and 3 Reasons Why Chronic Illness Warriors Love It 

Are you a chronic illness warrior like me who’s trying to improve your gut health? Maybe you should have a look at collagen.

This supplement is getting increasingly popular among warriors fighting autoimmune diseases, digestive issues, and hormonal imbalances. 

Not only can it help with supporting and healing the GI tract lining, but it also revitalizes your hair, skin, and nails!

Find out why so many of us are loving the benefits of collagen for gut health & healing and why chronic illness warriors should take note…

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission, at no cost, if you purchase through a link.

What is Collagen exactly?

Collagen is the most abundant protein that is naturally present in our bodies.  It plays a crucial role in maintaining our skin health, bone, tendons (connective tissue), and our muscles. 

Essentially, collagen synthesis is the building block of our body’s connective tissues. 

Collagen is about 40% of all protein in our system and is made up of amino acids, which the body uses for MANY functions. 

But as we age, our collagen levels decrease, which can result in dry and saggy-looking skin, loss of bone density, decreased joint health, and gut inflammation. 

Recently, chronic illness warriors have found that collagen supplementation can be a powerful ally in managing illness by improving gut health.  

How Does Collagen Work in Your Body?

Your body breaks down collagen and breaks it down into amino acids just like any other protein, which then makes new proteins, including collagen. 

Collagen is made naturally by your body using different amino acids (which could come from other protein-rich foods), zinc, vitamin C, and copper.

If you don’t get enough protein in your diet, collagen water or collagen supplements are perfect for supporting collagen production and increasing your protein intake. 

Unleashing the Power of Collagen Gut Health for Healing 

Collagen is more than just for those seeking young, perfect skin and shiny hair. (Although, it’s great for that too!)

But collagen also strengthens your body’s healing abilities and improves gut health. Just think of it as an amino acid construction crew, repairing and strengthening your gut lining, defending against disease-causing invaders and gut inflammation. 

IBS and leaky gut syndrome require these amino acids to heal and repair the gut wall (intestinal lining).

Collagen is also associated with anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases, such as body pain, creaky joints, digestive imbalances, and even headaches!  

No wonder chronic illness warriors are excited about this one! 

The Gut’s Mighty Guardian: Collagen’s Role in Fortifying Your Defense System for a Healthy Gut 

The gut wall integrity is a vital component of our body’s defense system, protecting us against harmful pathogens and ensuring optimal health. 

However, the intestinal lining can be compromised by a variety of factors such as stress, poor diet, and chronic inflammation. (All things that can trigger leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome, and impaired gut microbiome, eek!)

But collagen has been shown to support gut health and boost the immune system.  It acts as a barrier, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream by strengthening the gut’s lining and increasing our intestinal permeability. 

Plus, collagen’s amino acid profile includes glycine, which supports healthy inflammation levels, seals the stomach lining, and produces new muscle cells.  

Three Cheers for Collagen Peptides: Why Chronic Illness Warriors Swear By It

I’m one of the chronic illness warriors who are taking collagen supplements for its many health benefits  Here’s why you should too… 

1. A Gut on the Mend: Healing and Repairing with Collagen Supplements

If you’re someone who’s been struggling with gut issues for a while, you know the toll it can take on your daily life. (A.k.a., Running to the toilet!)

From bloating to pain and discomfort, it can be challenging to find relief from these persistent problems. That’s where collagen plays a role. 

This powerful protein has regenerative powers that can reduce inflammation, improve nutrient absorption, and repair your digestive tract. 

The benefits of collagen are far-reaching in the human body. By stimulating the production of new cells and tissues, it aids collagen synthesis to help alleviate symptoms of chronic illness and promote a renewed sense of health!

No matter what diet you’ve been trying to combat chronic illness (I highly recommend an animal-ased diet!), collagen is worth adding to the mix to up collagen production.

2. Boosting Immune Superpowers: Collagen’s Defense Mechanism

As warriors, we need all the help we can get to boost our immunity to harmful bacteria, viruses, and toxins. 

However, without a strong immune system, even the slightest exposure could cause a downward spiral and kick us in the a$$!

This is where collagen amino acids come into play  –  the essential protein found in our connective tissues is known for glowing skin, but its immune-boosting properties are equally impressive. 

Collagen fortifies the gut barrier, preventing harmful pathogens and toxins from passing into the bloodstream, also known as leaky gut. 

3. Happy Gut, Happy Mind: Collagen’s Mood-Boosting Effects

Did you know? Collagen isn’t just for improving the appearance of your skin and healing your gut, it also can improve your mental health. (Which is uber important for those of us who constantly feel like poop!)

Collagen helps to stimulate the production of serotonin, which is the “happy hormone.” This mood-boosting effect can lead to reduced stress levels, an improved overall mood, and increased happiness. 

This can be especially beneficial for those who are facing chronic illnesses and may struggle with feelings of sadness and anxiety. 

Try collagen to boost your mood and improve your mindset to overcome challenges that come your way. 

How to choose the right collagen supplements for gut health?

Looking for the right collagen supplement to boost gut health?

Make sure to choose supplements specifically formulated for gut health or containing gut-supportive ingredients like collagen peptides. (Peptides can strengthen the intestinal wall and maintain proper gut acidity!)

Also, make sure to choose the form of collagen supplements that best fits your lifestyle, such as powders that can be easily mixed with beverages or smoothies.

How to Incorporate Collagen Into Your Diet

The good news?  There are many simple and tasty ways to add collagen to your daily meals. 

You can mix a scoop of collagen powder into your morning smoothie, blend it in with your coffee (my favorite!), or add it to soups and stews. 

You can also sip on a warm cup of bone broth made from animal bones, which is a rich source of collagen, gelatin, and other essential nutrients. 

I love kettle & fire bone broth, it’s the BEST~

Buy Kettle & Fire Bone Broth on Amazon here~

My Personal Experience with Collagen as a Chronic Illness Warrior – Healing Leaky Gut & IBS

When you’re chronically ill, you’ll try just about anything to improve your quality of life. When I was at my sickest, 

One thing I discovered on this journey was collagen. It has helped to improve my skin’s elasticity, reduce the frequency of joint pain, and even strengthen my hair and nails – which were shot from battling significant hormonal imbalances! 

Not only that but it’s helped improve my gut health, which was the turning point in turning my lupus and chronic migraines into remission! 

I add two scoops of Vital Protein Powder to my coffee every morning to help heal my body and kick inflammation. 

The Wrap – Collagen for Gut Health & Chronic Illness Warriors 

When it comes to supporting overall digestive health and improving your symptoms of chronic illness, collagen can be a great tool to add to your toolbox. I know firsthand how every little bit helps!!

Remember, I’m not a doctor, expert, or functional medicine specialist – so always check with your medical team before adding things to the mix!

I do hope you at least try collagen for healing and let me know how it goes….I’m cheering you on! 

XO,

Jules