Foods that boost collagen production

From around the age of 25, the first signs of ageing start to become apparent on the surface of the skin. Fine lines appear first and wrinkles, a loss of volume and a loss of elasticity become noticeable over time. After the age of 25, the average person losses around 1,5% of collagen on a yearly basis. 

As a major building component of connective, bone and cartilaginous tissue, collagen plays a vital role in our bodies. Although there are many ''anti-ageing'' creams containing collagen, that amount of collagen is incomparable with the amount of collagen that can be found in food. 

What are food sources of collagen?

Eggs contain collagen in the yolk. They are also rich in sulfur, an important chemical element for liver detox and collagen production allowing destructive toxins to be eliminated and extracted from the body.

Chia seeds are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for the hydration and renewal of skin cells making your skin smooth and youthful. 

Vitamin E from the avocado helps to maintain collagen levels. Avocado also contains healthy fat which is beneficial for skin health and increased production of collagen.

Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, swiss chard, and other salad greens get their colour from chlorophyll, known for its antioxidant properties.

Salmon is a treasure wealth of collagen-producing minerals such as zinc. This type of fish also contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids which contribute to maintaining hydrated skin. 

You have probably heard that vegetarians are proud of the elasticity and appearance of their skin. That is mostly due to the fact that their diet is based on collagen-rich food such as soy and tofu which are known for their ability to compensate up to 6% of the collagen in six months. All thanks to the naturally occurring compounds like phytoestrogen and genistein which entice collagen production. 

Collagen rich food supplements are also a great way to maintain or even increase collagen levels in a body. Convenient and easy to use, they are available in a powdered form, in tablets, capsules or liquid syrups.

Collagen is the main structural and the most abundant protein found in our body!

It’s one of the major building blocks of bones, skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Collagen is also found in many other body parts, including blood vessels, corneas, and teeth. As you age, your body produces less and lower quality collagen. One of the visible signs of this is in your skin, which becomes less firm and supple. Cartilage also weakens with age.

Eating too much sugar and refined carbs, getting too much sunshine, or destructive habits like smoking may damage collagen. Therefore it is important to find a natural source from collagen from food or take supplements that are widely available in health food stores. 

Let us know what is your favourite way of supplementing collagen?

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