Collagen Supplements and Wound Healing: What You Need to Know
Wound healing is an incredible process, your body’s natural ability to repair itself after injury. And while we often think of bandages and ointments, collagen plays a much bigger role behind the scenes. At Nutraviva, we’re passionate about helping your body heal naturally with clean, effective nutrition. That’s why we’re diving into how collagen supplements can support wound healing, and what science has to say.
Why Is Collagen Important for Wound Healing?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and a vital part of your skin’s structure. When you get injured, your body immediately gets to work using collagen to:
- Stop bleeding and form a protective clot
- Activate immune responses
- Support tissue regrowth (including new skin cells and blood vessels)
- Rebuild strong, resilient skin through collagen fibre remodelling
How Collagen Supplements Support Healing
Hydrolysed collagen is collagen protein broken down into smaller peptides using a process called hydrolysis, making it easy to digest and absorb. Once in your system, these peptides can:
- Stimulate new collagen production
- Support immune and inflammatory responses
- Promote healthy skin regeneration
- Improve tensile strength and elasticity in scar tissue
- Aid fibroblast activity (fibroblasts are skin cells that make new collagen)
In clinical and pre-clinical models, oral collagen supplements have been shown to enhance wound healing, particularly when the body’s natural collagen production is compromised due to age, chronic wounds, or nutrient deficiencies (Mathew-Steiner, Roy & Sen, 2021). Dietary collagen supplements offer a convenient, whole-body approach - supporting both internal and external healing. At Nutraviva, we offer pure hydrolysed collagen powders that are 100% pure and free from additives, making them ideal for everyday use during recovery.
Who Can Benefit from Collagen for Wound Recovery?
- Post-surgery or post-injury recovery
- Athletes managing soft tissue injuries
- Aging adults, whose natural collagen levels are declining
- Individuals with poor wound healing capacity, including those with diabetes or nutritional deficiencies
Real-World Evidence: What the Research Shows
A comprehensive review by Mathew-Steiner, Roy and Sen in 2021, found that collagen supplements:
- Help reduce inflammation while encouraging tissue repair
- Act as a natural nutritional scaffold, guiding new skin and blood vessel formation
- Modulates enzymes and immune cells involved in healing
- Can be especially effective when taken alongside a balanced diet
Although many studies have been in pre-clinical settings, emerging clinical trials show promising results, especially in patients recovering from burns, ulcers, or surgical wounds.
Support Your Body’s Natural Healing
At Nutraviva, we’re proud to offer collagen powders made from grass-fed bovine and wild-caught marine sources, designed to deliver the key amino acids your body needs during healing: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or supporting healthy skin from within, collagen supplements are a natural ally in the healing process.
Reference:
Mathew-Steiner, S.S.; Roy, S.; Sen, C.K. Collagen in Wound Healing. Bioengineering (2021), 8, 63. https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering8050063
Disclaimer: As with any dietary choice, it's essential to strike a balance. A varied and balanced diet, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, is key to overall well-being. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with your Doctor or healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs before making any changes to your health routine or starting any new dietary supplements.