Collagen (Type I, II, III) vs Serrapeptase

Mechanism

Hydrolyzed collagen peptides are absorbed as di- and tripeptides (primarily hydroxyproline-proline and hydroxyproline-glycine) via PepT1 transporters in the small intestine. These bioactive peptides accumulate in skin, cartilage, and bone where they stimulate fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix synthesis by upregulating collagen gene expression (COL1A1, COL3A1). They also inhibit MMP (matrix metalloproteinase) activity that degrades existing collagen, and stimulate hyaluronic acid production by dermal fibroblasts.

Standard Dosing

10-20g hydrolyzed collagen peptides daily

Timing

Any time; often added to morning coffee or post-workout shake. For joint support, take with vitamin C 30-60 min before exercise. Type II collagen (undenatured, UC-II) taken on empty stomach.

Cycle Duration

ongoing (minimum 8-12 weeks for visible results)

Side Effects

• Mild bloating
• GI discomfort
• Unpleasant taste
• Rare: calcium elevation (if calcium-containing marine source)
• Feeling of fullness

Contraindications

• Fish/shellfish allergy (if marine-sourced)
• Phenylketonuria (collagen contains phenylalanine)
• Histamine intolerance (bone broth collagen may be high in histamine)

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Mechanism

Serrapeptase (serratiopeptidase) is a proteolytic enzyme originally isolated from the gut of the silkworm (Serratia marcescens). It hydrolyzes non-living tissue including fibrin, blood clots, cysts, and arterial plaque while sparing living tissue. It reduces bradykinin and other pain-mediating amines, provides anti-inflammatory effects by reducing neutrophil infiltration, and thins mucus by cleaving glycoprotein structures. It may also enhance antibiotic penetration into biofilms.

Standard Dosing

120,000-240,000 SPU (serratiopeptidase units) daily

Timing

On empty stomach (critical — food proteins will be digested instead of systemic absorption). 30+ minutes before meals or 2 hours after.

Cycle Duration

Cycle 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off

Side Effects

• GI discomfort
• Nausea
• Skin rash (rare)
• Muscle/joint pain (rare)
• Pneumonitis (very rare, case reports)

Contraindications

• Bleeding disorders
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2 weeks prior)
• Concurrent anticoagulant therapy
• Active peptic ulcers
• Active bleeding
• Pre-surgery
• Blood clotting disorders

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