Evidence supporting the use of: Collagen
For the health condition: Surgery (healing from)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Collagen is scientifically validated as a supportive nutrient in the context of post-surgical healing, with a moderate level of evidence (3/5). Collagen is the primary structural protein in connective tissues such as skin, tendons, and ligaments, and it plays a crucial role in wound healing. Several clinical and preclinical studies suggest that oral collagen supplementation may promote wound healing and tissue regeneration after surgery by providing amino acids necessary for new collagen fiber formation. Additionally, collagen dressings are commonly used in clinical practice to manage surgical wounds, burns, and ulcers, facilitating faster re-epithelialization and reducing infection risk. For example, a 2021 systematic review in Wound Repair and Regeneration reported that collagen-based products, both oral and topical, can improve wound closure, tensile strength, and reduce healing time in surgical and traumatic wounds.

However, it is important to note that while promising, the evidence is not universally robust—many studies are small, heterogeneous, and sometimes industry-funded. More large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to definitively establish optimal dosing, effectiveness, and safety profiles. Nevertheless, current data suggest that collagen supplementation (oral or topical) is a reasonable adjunct to standard surgical aftercare, particularly for individuals at risk of poor wound healing, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses.

More about collagen
More about Surgery (healing from)