Does Collagen Increase Blood Glucose? The Surprising Truth

October 29, 2025 •

3 min read

According to numerous recent studies, consuming collagen peptides does not increase blood glucose and may, in fact, help stabilize blood sugar levels. This is welcome news for individuals, especially those with diabetes, who are careful about their dietary intake and its effect on blood sugar regulation.

Quick Summary

Collagen peptides have a low glycemic index and are unlikely to cause a significant increase in blood sugar. Studies suggest that certain amino acids in collagen, particularly glycine, can improve insulin sensitivity and support healthier glucose metabolism. It may even help stabilize blood sugar responses, especially when consumed alongside carbohydrates.

Key Points

Low Glycemic Index: Pure collagen peptides do not contain carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index, meaning they will not significantly increase blood glucose levels.
Glycine Content: Collagen is rich in glycine, an amino acid that can help improve insulin secretion and enhance the body's use of glucose.
Post-Meal Stabilization: Taking collagen with a carbohydrate-rich meal may help moderate and stabilize blood sugar responses, preventing sharp spikes.
Combats Glycation: Collagen may help protect against glycation, a process where high blood sugar levels damage proteins, which is particularly beneficial for diabetics.
Choose Unsweetened Products: To avoid a potential blood sugar increase, choose pure, unflavored collagen peptides and avoid products with added sugars.
Medical Consultation is Recommended: Always talk to a healthcare provider before adding a new supplement to your routine, especially if you have diabetes or other health conditions.

Understanding Collagen and Your Blood Sugar

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, serving as a fundamental building block for skin, joints, bones, and connective tissues. Its role in the body is primarily structural, and it is made up of amino acids, not carbohydrates. For this reason, pure collagen peptides have a low glycemic index, meaning they do not significantly impact blood sugar levels upon consumption. However, the relationship is more nuanced, with several mechanisms suggesting that collagen might even be beneficial for blood sugar management.

The Role of Glycine in Glucose Control

One of the key reasons collagen is not a concern for blood sugar is its high glycine content. Glycine is an amino acid that constitutes a large percentage of the collagen protein structure. Research has highlighted glycine's positive influence on insulin secretion and glucose metabolism. Some studies have found that people with type 2 diabetes often have lower circulating levels of glycine. By supplementing with collagen, which is a rich source of glycine, individuals may be able to support better glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.

Stabilizing Post-Meal Blood Sugar

Emerging research indicates that consuming collagen peptides with meals, particularly those containing carbohydrates, can help stabilize blood sugar levels. This effect may be due to a slowed absorption of sugar from the intestines into the bloodstream, which prevents sharp post-meal blood sugar spikes. For diabetics and others focused on glycemic control, pairing a collagen supplement with a carbohydrate-rich meal could be a strategic way to manage blood glucose responses.

Glycation and its Connection to Collagen

Glycation is a process where excess sugar molecules in the bloodstream bind to proteins, including collagen, forming compounds called Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). In individuals with high blood sugar, this process can happen at an accelerated rate, causing collagen fibers to stiffen and lose their elasticity. This accelerated collagen loss is a significant concern for people with diabetes, contributing to issues like joint pain and impaired wound healing. Some studies suggest that consuming collagen may help mitigate the negative effects of glycation by acting as a competitive binder for the sugar molecules.

Potential Benefits and Considerations

Joint Health Support: For many diabetics, joint pain and stiffness are common issues. Collagen supplementation can help support cartilage and connective tissues, potentially reducing joint discomfort and improving mobility.
Enhanced Skin Health: Diabetics are often more prone to skin dryness and slower wound healing. By supporting skin hydration and elasticity, collagen can help manage these issues.
Wound Healing: Due to impaired healing in diabetes, maintaining a robust collagen supply is crucial. Collagen provides the building blocks needed to repair tissue, which can promote faster healing.
Consult a Professional: Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have an underlying condition like diabetes or are on medication.

Collagen Source and Blood Sugar Impact: A Comparison


Feature	Pure Collagen Peptides	Flavored Collagen Products
Glycemic Index	Very Low to Zero	Variable; dependent on added ingredients
Impact on Blood Sugar	Minimal or potentially stabilizing	May increase blood sugar if they contain added sugars or sweeteners
Recommended for Diabetics	Generally safe; should consult a doctor	Cautious use; check nutrition labels carefully for sugar content
Primary Goal	Supporting protein synthesis, joint, and skin health	Flavor enhancement, may be marketed as a treat
Ingredients	Typically just hydrolyzed collagen	Includes sweeteners, natural or artificial flavors, and other additives

Conclusion

Far from increasing blood glucose, evidence suggests that collagen supplements are unlikely to cause a spike in blood sugar levels and may even offer supportive benefits for glycemic control. The low glycemic nature of pure collagen peptides, coupled with the potential positive effects of its high glycine content on insulin sensitivity, makes it a viable supplement for individuals managing their blood sugar. However, it is crucial to select high-quality products without added sugars and always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs. By understanding the science behind how collagen affects blood sugar, you can make informed decisions to support your overall wellness. For more on how glycine supports metabolic health, explore this article on glycine and diabetes management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, collagen supplements are generally safe for diabetics. In fact, some studies suggest that collagen peptides can help support blood sugar regulation. It is crucial to choose a high-quality product without added sugars or sweeteners and to consult with a healthcare provider first.

Collagen contains high levels of the amino acid glycine, which has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and support healthy glucose metabolism. Some research suggests that people with type 2 diabetes have lower levels of circulating glycine.

Collagen peptides are pure protein and are not known to cause blood sugar crashes. Unlike carbohydrates, which can lead to spikes followed by crashes, protein is processed more slowly and can help maintain stable energy levels.

Some studies have found specific benefits of marine collagen, such as improving insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. Both marine and bovine collagen are sources of beneficial peptides and amino acids, but further research is needed to determine if one is definitively superior for blood sugar control.

If you use a pure, unsweetened collagen peptide powder, it should not affect your blood sugar. However, be mindful of what else you add, like sugar, flavored creamers, or sweeteners, as these will impact your glucose levels.

Some animal and human studies indicate that collagen peptides may help improve insulin sensitivity, which is a key factor in managing insulin resistance. The glycine content and other mechanisms related to hormonal responses are thought to be responsible for this effect.

Look for unflavored, hydrolyzed collagen peptides that are verified to be free from added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and other carbohydrates. Always check the nutrition label carefully.