Collagen Protein, Glycine & Pregnancy: Why They Matter for Maternal Health

By Carla Gargano - Registered Nutritionist

Carla is a Registered Nutritionist passionate about gut health, weight management, women’s health and pregnancy nutrition. You can find her on Instagram at @nutrifybycarla.

What is Glycine and Why is it Important for Pregnancy?

Glycine is an amino acid that acts as a building block for collagen, which is found in skin, ligaments, muscles, bones, and cartilage. It’s essential for producing vital compounds like glutathione, haem, and creatine.

In the body, glycine also functions as a neurotransmitter and offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cryoprotective, and immune-supporting benefits - all of which are important during pregnancy to protect both mother and baby.

How Much Glycine is in Collagen?

Collagen is one of the richest natural sources of glycine. In fact, glycine makes up about 57% of the total amino acids in collagen, and collagen itself accounts for roughly one-third of the body’s total protein content.

What is Collagen and Why is it Important?

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, critical for maintaining the structure and strength of connective tissues such as bones, cartilage, skin, and blood vessels. It also plays a role in wound healing, tissue repair, and cell communication.

Key Benefits of Collagen During Pregnancy & Postpartum

1. Supports Skin Elasticity & Hydration: Pregnancy causes rapid changes to the skin. Collagen supplements can improve skin elasticity and hydration, helping the skin adapt to stretching during pregnancy and recover postpartum.

2. Promotes Healthy Hair Growth: Many women enjoy thicker hair during pregnancy but may experience postpartum hair loss. Studies show collagen peptides can support new hair growth, improve thickness, and increase scalp coverage.

3. Boosts Gut Health & Immunity: With about 70% of your immune system in your gut, keeping your gut lining strong is essential. Collagen helps repair and maintain the intestinal lining, which can reduce inflammation and improve digestion during pregnancy.

4. Strengthens Joints & Ligaments: Pregnancy and caring for a newborn place extra strain on joints. Collagen helps support joint strength, mobility, and recovery - making it easier to carry your baby without discomfort.

How to Include More Collagen & Glycine in Your Diet

• Hydrolysed collagen powder (highly bioavailable and easy to mix into drinks or smoothies)
• Bone broth and gelatin-based recipes

• Protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, and fish

Maternally Happy’s collagen protein is sustainably sourced, bioavailable, and free from added nasties - formulated to support pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and women’s wellness.