Collagen is a protein found throughout your body. This includes in your skin, joints, muscles, hair, and nails.
For your skin, collagen is like the glue that holds your skin cell together, keeping it firm, smooth, and youthful-looking.
But as you get older, your body makes less collagen. This is a key reason why your skin becomes thinner, saggier, and more wrinkled with age.
The good news is you can help your body make more collagen by eating these three foods:
Bone broth is made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues. Bones are rich in collagen, which is why drinking bone broth floods your body with this essential anti-aging protein.
What’s more, bone broth contains the amino acids glycine and proline, which are essential for collagen production. Glycine acts as a building block that allows collagen molecules to bond together. While proline is the glue that holds the collagen molecules in place.
Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are excellent for boosting collagen levels.
This is because fatty fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help protect the collagen in your skin from damage.
These healthy fats also keep your skin hydrated and reduce inflammation, making your skin look more youthful and glowing.
This surprises a lot of people, but citrus fruits help boost collagen levels too.
This is because citrus fruits, like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, are high in vitamin C. And vitamin C is crucial for converting amino acids into collagen.
Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, protecting your skin from free radical damage and improving overall skin health.
Nourishing your skin on the inside is as important as what you apply to the surface
These three examples of collagen rich foods highlight why eating the right foods is as important as what you apply to your skin’s surface.
Eating quality, nutrient dense foods provides essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals that help your skin repair and regenerate.
Which is why, by eating well, you can give your skin the nourishment it needs to look firm, smooth, and glowing.