Pregnancy is a time of heightened nutrition intake. One nutrient that most women lack during pregnancy and post-partum recovery is protein. There are many reasons why protein desires are heightened throughout this stage of life. The primary ones are fetal, uterine, and supporting muscle growth/development/restore, as well as assist for bone fitness, digestion, and immunity.
While an overall energy increase is often achieved during these life stages, there is concern with whether adequate attention is paid to protein intake among pregnant and breastfeeding women. The Dietary Recommended Intake guidelines call for an additional 25 grams of protein per day on top of usual 0.8 g/kg body weight per day recommendation. This means an average intake of 70-100 grams per day is ideal.
For the baby, protein is critical for their optimal growth and placenta health. In addition to this, getting enough protein also reduces the risk of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia.
What are the specific benefits of Collagen for pregnant and nursing mums?
While overall protein is of highest importance, there are certain ways that collagen intake may be specifically helpful in supporting a woman’s health during pregnancy
Due to common nutrient deficiencies that come with pregnancy and breastfeeding, women tend to experience hair loss, dry skin, joint aches and much more. Here’s how Collagen supplementation can help :-
Skin
During pregnancy, skin can turn dry and flaky due to the body directing nutrients to the baby. Collagen can help improve these symptoms from the later stages of pregnancy and up to a year postpartum.
Many changes happen during pregnancy, like the expansion of the belly skin to the tissues surrounding the pelvic floor. Collagen supplementation is proven to support skin elasticity and may help in the reduction of stretch marks post-pregnancy.
Hair
During pregnancy, there is a hormonal and nutrient shift which can lead to hair loss leading to bald spots. It is proven that consistent use of collagen can help generate hair growth and in turn reverse the hair loss new mums may experience.
Bones
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, women are at risk of bone resorption which means their bone density could be compromised. Women are also more susceptible to osteoporosis and osteoarthritis than men. Pregnancy plays a large part in it. Nutrition plays a strong role in bone building and retention at all times, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Research shows that collagen peptides help with bone health which pregnant and new mums will need.
Joints
During pregnancy, there is a hormone called relaxin that is released from the body. This hormone causes relaxation of the muscles around the uterus as the baby grows and is also important during delivery. Relaxin can also cause weakness in the body and joint pain within the body. Collagen has proven to improve symptoms of joint pain which makes it an ideal supplement for postpartum or pregnant mums.
Gut health
Collagen contains a number of amino acids that are essential for our body. These amino acids contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which help with gut health, in turn, helping with your immune system.The amino acid, glycine, may help guard your body against metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases and much more.
Sleep
During pregnancy or post-birth, sleep is almost non-existent while taking care of infants or during the third trimester. Quality sleep is a must during these crucial times as the baby is completely dependent on the mother. Collagen contains the amino acid, glycine, in abundance. Glycine is said to improve sleep quality and neurological function which is why Collagen supplements are a great way to regulate sleep patterns in pregnant and nursing mums.
Recovery from labour and delivery
Labour and delivery is the most taxing time for women and recovering from it can take an inordinate amount of time. This is why collagen can help with the recovery of wounds, and even c-section scars at a much faster pace.
One study found that women with lower protein intake who supplemented with collagen protein in the third trimester and continued until ten weeks postpartum noted improved quality of life and wound healing after birth compared to those who didn’t supplement
Supplementing with the right collagen is crucial at this delicate time in your life. Try finding collagen supplements with minimal additives, preservatives and artificial flavours. INJA Collagen can help boost your post-partum health. Just consult with your midwife or doctor before taking a supplement by double checking the ingredient list with them. Shop the finest marine collagen products from INJA Wellness on injawellness.com