Great Lakes Gelatin Co. Collagen Hydrolysate Unflavored Protein

Our assessment

The evidence shows that Great Lakes Gelatin Co. Collagen Hydrolysate is a protein supplement, but its primary active ingredient for bone health is calcium. Our assessment: this product can support your bone density, but you must be aware of the risks associated with high calcium intake. Data on the specific collagen hydrolysate ingredient itself is limited, so we rely on the calcium content for safety guidance [NIH ODS].

How it works

Calcium works as a master regulator for your bones and muscles. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. Think of it as the building block your body uses to keep your skeleton strong and your nervous system running smoothly.

Safety profile

The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

We recommend you check your total daily calcium intake from all sources (food and supplements) before adding this product. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision. If you take any of the listed medications, separate your dose by at least two hours. Data on the collagen hydrolysate itself is not available for a specific recommendation on that ingredient [NIH ODS].

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide