Cancer LOVES Collagen
Collagen powders and products are very popular right now!
I do NOT recommend these, here’s why…..
As cancer cells begin to grow, the surrounding cellular matrix becomes more collagen dense. Solid tumors are embedded in and supported by collagen dense connective tissue. Higher collagen density in tumors is correlated with poorer prognosis.
Collagen negatively influences T cell activity and induces immune suppressive activity in macrophages.
In other words, collagen gives cancers cells a place to get cozy and suppresses your immune response to cancer cells!
Other concerns:
Collagen may contribute to kidney stone formation by increasing oxalates in the kidneys.
Collagen supplements may contribute to digestive issues, like bloating or constipation and/or diarrhea.
Collagen supplements don’t contain collagen. Made of hydrolyzed proteins that your body might build collagen from, there are no guarantees! Hydrolization is a highly refined chemical process used to separate the collagen peptides from the raw material.
To support healthy connective tissues and skin, get your proteins from whole foods, like grass fed pot roasts and briskets, bone broths (from poultry, beef, or fish), poultry, and fish/shellfish.
If you need or want a protein powder, I prefer whey protein. Even for lactose intolerant individuals, whey is usually well tolerated.
Whey will also:
-boost immune function
-sensitize cancer cells to radiation and chemotherapy improving the efficacy of cancer treatments
-inhibit cancer cell growth by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting angiogenesis
-inhibit mTOR and nuclear factor-kappa B signaling
-reduce inflammation
-normalize weight and deter cachexia
-reduce high cholesterol
-support lean muscle mass
Can your protein powder do all this?
I have a list of my preferred whey protein powders in my FullScript dispensary. You’ll have to log in to view the list of whey proteins. If you are not in the US, please reach out and I will help you find a healthy whey product.