Why Collagen Matters More Than Ever During Menopause
I sat back at the end of my clinic today and reflected on how many menopause
consultations I have done this month — definitely a steep rise, likely influenced by
World Menopause Month. Thanks to increasing awareness and the voices of women like
Davina McCall, menopause is finally being discussed openly. In fact, NHS England has
even advised that questions about menopause be included in the NHS health checks —
a testament to how vital it is to recognise and manage symptoms early.
Collagen Loss During Menopause
From around the age of 25, we naturally begin to lose collagen — the structural protein
responsible for keeping our skin firm, joints flexible, and muscles strong. By the time
many women reach menopausal age, more than a third of collagen stores have been
lost. When you add the decline in oestrogen that occurs during menopause, the effects
on skin, hair, nails, joints, and muscles are profound.
Collagen and Hormonal Balance During Menopause
Oestrogen plays a key role in collagen production, which is why many of the physical
changes women experience during menopause — such as skin thinning, dryness, and
joint stiffness — are linked to falling hormone levels. When oestrogen drops, collagen
synthesis slows dramatically, leading to reduced elasticity in skin and connective tissues.
Marine collagen supplementation can help counterbalance this decline by supplying
essential amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline — the very building
blocks your body needs to maintain structure and repair. By supporting collagen
production from within, women can feel stronger, more supple, and more confident
through this natural transition.
How Marine Collagen Helps With Menopausal and Perimenopausal Symptoms
Collagen supplementation has been shown in clinical studies to help counteract some of
the effects of menopause. A metaanalysis of 19 randomised controlled trials found that
oral hydrolysed collagen taken for 90 days improved skin hydration, elasticity, and
reduced wrinkles. GEN’s marine collagen drinks also include vitamin D, which supports
skin health and overall well-being.
During menopause, many women also notice thinning or hair loss. Collagen can help
maintain the structural integrity of hair follicles, potentially reducing hair shedding. In
one study of menopausal women, 5 grams of collagen daily for six months improved
hair strength and fullness. GEN Collagen drinks contain 8 grams per serving, providing
the recommended daily amount in a convenient, readytodrink format. These benefits
make GEN an ideal collagen drink choice for women navigating perimenopause and
menopause.
Collagen, Oestrogen, and Bone Health
As oestrogen levels drop, women lose the bone protection this hormone provides,
increasing the risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis. Research suggests that hydrolysed
collagen peptides may help support bone mineral density and bone strength when
taken regularly alongside a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Collagen and
oestrogen together play crucial roles in maintaining bone and joint integrity during
menopause.
Why Bioavailability Matters
Not all collagen is absorbed equally. The molecular size — measured in Daltons —
affects how efficiently collagen peptides can enter the bloodstream. GEN Collagen uses
hydrolysed marine collagen with a low Dalton weight for enhanced bioavailability,
meaning it can be absorbed and utilised more effectively by the body. As a liquid
supplement, it’s also more convenient and fasterabsorbing than powders or capsules.
GEN’s formulation includes vitamin C — essential for collagen synthesis — and vitamin D
to support muscle and immune health. Together, these nutrients complement collagen’s
benefits for skin, bones, and energy.
How to Support Natural Collagen Production
While supplementation helps replenish lost collagen, lifestyle also plays a big part in
maintaining your body’s natural stores. Eating a diet rich in vitamin C, zinc, and protein
can help your body produce collagen more efficiently. Staying hydrated, getting regular
exercise, and limiting alcohol and smoking are simple yet effective ways to slow collagen
breakdown. Adequate sleep and stress management are also crucial, as chronic stress
and lack of rest can accelerate skin ageing and joint stiffness. Combining these habits
with a daily dose of marine collagen creates the perfect foundation for long-term health
and vitality.
Supporting Menopause Naturally
Taking collagen regularly can help ease the transition through perimenopause and
menopause by supporting the body’s natural resilience. Prevention is always better than
cure — maintaining healthy collagen levels early can lessen the impact of symptoms
later on.
GEN Collagen is the UK’s first sparkling on-the-go marine collagen drink, designed to fit
effortlessly into your daily routine. Each can provides your recommended daily
allowance of high-quality collagen and essential vitamins. Available in two delicious
flavours:
Orange & Passion Fruit: with added vitamin D to combat tiredness, support
muscle function, and promote a positive mood.
Apple & Ginger: formulated to aid digestion and gut health — a common
concern during menopause — with natural anti-inflammatory properties.
All GEN Collagen drinks are formulated using sustainably sourced marine collagen,
tested for purity and quality to ensure optimal safety and effectiveness.
Collagen With Confidence
By the time women reach menopause, natural collagen depletion is well underway.
Supporting the body with marine collagen can help maintain skin, bone, and joint health
— key areas affected by hormonal changes. When I reach that stage myself, I’ll be
choosing a daily GEN — a easy step to feel strong, confident, and energised.
Explore GEN — the UK’s first sparkling marine collagen drink, made to support women
naturally through menopause and perimenopause.
Menopause is not the end of youth — it’s a new phase of power, wisdom, and vitality.
With the right support, women can feel good inside and out, embracing every stage
with strength and self-care.
With love from Dr B.
This article is for informational purposes and should not replace medical advice. Always
consult your GP or healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
References and Further Reading
For more on collagen’s role in your body, read our educational post: Collagen’s Roles In
Skin Health.
NHS Menopause Guidance (2023), British Menopause Society,
Skin Pharmacology and Physiology Journal.
Proksch E et al., Skin Pharmacology and Physiology (2014): Oral supplementation of
specific collagen peptides improves skin elasticity.
Elam ML et al., Journal of Medicinal Food (2021): Collagen peptides improve bone
mineral density in postmenopausal women.
FAQs
Q: Can collagen help with hot flashes?
Collagen itself doesn’t directly influence hormone levels, but it supports skin, joint, and
bone health, helping women feel more balanced during menopause.
Q: When should I start taking collagen for menopause?
Many experts recommend starting much earlier — typically in your late 30s or early 40s
— to maintain natural collagen levels and prepare your body for hormonal shifts.
Q: What type of collagen is best for menopause?
Marine collagen is particularly beneficial as it is highly bioavailable, meaning it is
absorbed and used efficiently by the body.
Q: Is collagen safe to take with HRT?
Yes — collagen supplements are generally safe to take alongside hormone replacement
therapy. However, always consult your GP before starting any new supplement to
ensure it is compatible with your treatment plan.
Q: Can I take marine collagen if I have a fish allergy?
Marine collagen is derived from fish, so it is not suitable for individuals with fish
allergies. Always read ingredient labels carefully and consult your doctor if unsure.