Collagen

Hi Wanda (Loulou5855ee8e),

Thank you for getting in touch with us and welcome to our online community.  My name is Adrienne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists at Macmillan.

It’s completely understandable to want to strengthen and improve your skin, hair and nails by supplementing with collagen.  Especially as the Kadcyla and hormone therapy has taken a toll on them.  However, it’s important that you talk to your breast care nurse or consultant before taking any kind of supplement.

Although supplements and herbal remedies may seem harmless, they don’t go through the rigorous testing that conventional medications do so we don’t have good evidence to support their use and benefits.  Research has found that taking some supplements can make some cancer treatments less effective.  That’s why it’s important to speak to your hospital team before taking anything.

You can help boost your body’s natural collagen production by eating more plant-based foods, as these are rich in nutrients needed by the body for collagen production.  Foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains.  Also increase your protein intake by eating lean meats, fish, nuts and dairy products if you can.   

It may be helpful to look at Look Good Feel Better’s website.  They are a UK charity that runs workshops (both in person and virtually) that focus on helping people manage the cosmetic and physical impact of treatment.  You can also chat to other’s who are going through or have been through a similar situation to yourself on our breast cancer forum. 

I hope this was helpful Wanda and wish you all the best with your treatment going forward.

Take care and best wishes,

Adrienne

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email or use webchat.

Ref:  AMc/LJ