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Doctor Warns About Hidden Dangers in Popular Collagen Supplements

If you're taking collagen supplements to maintain youthful, glowing skin, you may want to take a closer look at what’s actually in those capsules.

While boosting collagen is a common goal—especially as we age—Dr. Asif Ahmed, a UK-based general practitioner, is urging consumers to be cautious about the hidden ingredients in some collagen products. Though the benefits of collagen for skin elasticity and hydration are well-known, the supplement industry lacks regulation, and that’s where problems can begin.

What Is Collagen—and Why Does It Matter?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It’s what gives our skin its elasticity, keeps joints flexible, and supports strong bones and muscles. As we grow older, our natural collagen production slows down, leading to fine lines, sagging skin, joint stiffness, and even digestive issues.

Understandably, many people turn to collagen supplements—pills, powders, and drinks—to counteract these effects. Others may opt for lifestyle strategies like microneedling or bone broth to support collagen production naturally.

However, according to Dr. Ahmed, while supplementing with collagen can offer some benefits, not all products on the market are created equal—and some may even pose a hidden risk to your health.

The Heavy Metal Risk in Collagen Supplements

In a recent interview with The Express, Dr. Ahmed referenced a study published by the National Institutes of Health that investigated the safety of collagen products sold by 20–30 different companies. The results were alarming.

“They were all found to contain heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and mercury,” Dr. Ahmed explained. “While these are sometimes present in small amounts in food, they must stay within safe levels to avoid harm.”

The real concern lies in the lack of regulation in the supplement industry. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, supplements are not strictly monitored for safety, quality, or purity in many countries—including the UK and US. That means consumers have no reliable way of knowing how much of these heavy metals might be present in their collagen supplement—unless the company voluntarily submits its product for third-party testing.

“If there are heavy metals in a supplement,” Dr. Ahmed added, “there’s no way you’ll find out unless the company is transparent and gets their product independently tested.”

Not All Collagen Is the Same

If you're considering taking collagen, it’s important to know that there are different types, and your source matters:

• Bovine Collagen: Derived from cows, especially connective tissues like bones and hides. You can also get similar benefits from whole foods such as bone broth or bone marrow.

• Marine Collagen: Sourced from the skin and scales of fish. This type is often preferred for its bioavailability, meaning it’s absorbed more easily by the body.

Each source has its benefits, but the most crucial factor is purity. Look for products that clearly state their origin, type (Type I, II, III, etc.), and third-party lab results to confirm they are free from contaminants.

Daily Habits That Harm Your Collagen

Aside from supplements, your daily lifestyle can greatly impact your body’s collagen levels. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the following habits can accelerate collagen breakdown:

• Excessive sun exposure (UV radiation)

• Smoking

• Eating a high-sugar or highly processed diet

• Lack of sleep

• Chronic stress

The decline in collagen is not just cosmetic. It can lead to a range of physical symptoms, including:

• Wrinkled or sagging skin

• Hollowing of the cheeks and eyes

• Muscle weakness

• Joint stiffness or pain

• Gastrointestinal discomfort

• Poor circulation

How to Supplement Safely

While Dr. Ahmed acknowledges that collagen supplements can be helpful, his main advice is simple: Choose clean, tested products from reputable brands.

When shopping for collagen supplements, consider these tips:

✅ Look for "third-party tested" labels
✅ Choose products with low or no detectable heavy metals
✅ Prioritize transparency—brands that publish test results on their websites
✅ Opt for hydrolyzed collagen peptides for better absorption
✅ Pair with vitamin C, which helps support collagen synthesis in the body

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Final Thoughts

Collagen supplements can offer genuine skin and health benefits, but they’re not without risk. With growing awareness of heavy metal contamination and the lack of regulation in the supplement industry, it’s more important than ever to be informed and selective about what you put into your body.

Dr. Ahmed’s warning isn’t meant to scare, but to empower. By choosing high-quality supplements and supporting your body’s natural collagen production through diet and lifestyle, you can safely enhance your health—without the hidden dangers.