Collagen powder is a widely used supplement, valued for its protein content and benefits for skin, joint, and bone health. As more people adopt diets that restrict carbohydrates, such as the ketogenic or low-carb approaches, the nutritional profile of every supplement comes under scrutiny. The simple answer to whether collagen powder contains carbohydrates depends entirely on the product’s purity.
The Nutritional Profile of Pure Collagen Powder
Pure, unflavored collagen powder, often sold as collagen peptides or hydrolyzed collagen, contains virtually no carbohydrates. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and is an animal-derived product made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. The primary amino acids in collagen are glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which the body uses for structural support.
Proteins and carbohydrates are distinct macronutrient classes with different chemical structures. Since pure collagen powder is a processed form of animal protein, typically containing 90% or more protein by weight, it naturally lacks the sugars and starches that define a carbohydrate. A standard serving of 10 to 11 grams of unflavored collagen peptides typically delivers 9 to 10 grams of protein and zero grams of carbohydrates or fat.
Identifying Hidden Carbohydrates in Collagen Products
While the raw ingredient contains no carbohydrates, many commercially available collagen products introduce them through additives. The addition of flavorings and sweeteners is the most common reason for an elevated carbohydrate count. Manufacturers often include these ingredients to improve the taste, mask the slight natural flavor of the protein, or create a specific product type, like a protein beverage or creamer.
Common sources of hidden carbohydrates include simple sugars such as cane sugar, corn syrup solids, and dextrose, all of which contribute directly to the total carb count. Even seemingly healthier additives like natural fruit powders or certain thickening agents can add small amounts of carbohydrates. Other products, such as “collagen creamers,” often contain powdered fats and emulsifiers, which may include maltodextrin, a starch-derived ingredient that is functionally a carbohydrate. Consumers must check the ingredient list carefully, as a product labeled as a “drink mix” can have a significantly different macronutrient profile than a pure powder.
Incorporating Collagen into Low-Carb and Ketogenic Diets
For individuals adhering to low-carb or ketogenic diets, collagen powder is easily incorporated, provided the product is pure. The zero-carb nature of unflavored collagen makes it an ideal source of protein that does not raise blood sugar levels or interfere with a state of ketosis. The most effective strategy for product selection is to choose single-ingredient, unflavored, hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which guarantees minimal risk of hidden sugars or starches.
When reviewing a nutrition label, look specifically for “Total Carbohydrates” and then cross-reference the ingredient list for any added sugars or carbohydrate-based fillers. Even if the total carbohydrate count is low, the presence of ingredients like maltodextrin or cane sugar can add up quickly across multiple daily servings. Individuals following a strict ketogenic diet should also be aware that consuming very large quantities of any protein, including collagen, can potentially lead to gluconeogenesis, where the body converts excess protein into glucose. Therefore, collagen should supplement, not replace, other protein sources in a balanced low-carb diet.