Your skin structure is probably poor because it lacks enough collagen. This is the protein that gives this organ its elasticity and brilliance. Something almost inevitable about aging is the body’s lower production of collagen.
And instead of turning to pill and powder forms, you can consider the following foods to boost your collagen levels:
1. Bone broth
Bone broth is made by simmering the bones and connective tissues of beef, pork, chicken, and other edible animals. You can also buy it as a dietary supplement in the form of bone broth collagen powder.
Cooking animal protein for a long time turns the amino acids into collagen through hydrolysis. It contains magnesium, calcium, collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin. However, it’s better to make this substance at home for guaranteed quality.
2. Chicken
Chicken is an essential ingredient in many collagen supplements because it’s loaded with amino acids. Thanks to the high amounts of connective tissues in chicken, it’s an excellent dietary source of collagen.
The neck and cartilage of this animal protein are also excellent for treating arthritis.
3. Fish and shellfish
The bones and ligaments of fish and shellfish contain collagen, and it’s easier for the body to absorb these sources. But again, you’ll have to focus on the non-fleshy part, as it has less of this material than the bones and ligaments.
The head, eyeballs, skin, and scales are some of the best sources of collagen peptides.
4. Egg whites
Proline is an amino acid required for collagen synthesis in the body. It also contains materials that enhance collagen production, like lysine and glycine.
Eggs may lack connective bones and connective tissues, but they contain enough amino acids for producing collagen.
5. Citrus fruits
Eating citrus fruits can help you improve your collagen production. As such, you need ample vitamin C to up your body’s levels. Increase your intake of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits to enjoy the benefits fully.
6. Berries
Berries are excellent sources of vitamin C; you may even get greater amounts from options like strawberries and raspberries.
Additionally, they are laden with antioxidants for protection from skin damage.
7. Garlic
Garlic is famous for making meals zesty, but that’s not all it does. It has a high sulfur content, and your body needs this trace mineral for synthesizing and protecting collagen.
But again, you may not enjoy the benefits of garlic until you consume a considerable amount, so adding it to your diet may be a great idea.
8. Dark-leafy veggies
It’s no secret that leafy vegetables are essential for good health. It turns out they also increase collagen. This is thanks to the chlorophyll they contain, which is also rich in antioxidants.
9. Beans
There are many beans dishes you can add to your diet. This staple is a potent source of amino acids that the body needs for synthesizing collagen.
Beans also have a high copper content, another essential mineral for producing collagen.
10. Cashews
Cashews are great because they supply copper and zinc, two minerals that improve your skin by increasing the body’s ability to produce collagen.