Collagen: the secret to a firmer, younger-looking skin

Collagen is a long, fibrous, structural protein, that gives the skin its elasticity and strength. 

It is an ingredient which you will find in many serums, masks, moisturisers and also in supplemental powders, capsules and liquids.  However, you can also find it in many foods (which I will mention a little bit later).

Apart from aiding our skin’s elasticity, collagen is not only the most abundant protein in the body, but also acts as a supporting base structure for the skin.  This is giving our skin its bounce and plump.  Interestingly, collagen is also found in organs, blood vessels, bones and tendons, and acts to bind tissue together.  Our skin is rejuvenating itself all day, every day.  Not only is it shedding dead skin regularly, but it is constantly making new collagen.

Unfortunately, due to our modern-day life that is filled with environmental stressors, exposure to UV radiation and of course ageing, collagen production starts to decline. This, in turn, causes fine lines, wrinkles to appear and sagging skin.  During menopause collagen declines much more…but no worries my readers, there are many foods you can consume, that will help your body to build and maintain collagen-levels. 

Here is a list of a number of different foods that is full of natural-building collagen:

Bone broth, chicken, fish and shellfish, Egg whites, Soya products, Cabbage, Red Fruits and Vegetables, Beans, Berries, Almonds and Cashews, Avocados, Citrus fruits, Tropical fruits, Garlic, Leafy greens, Tomatoes and Bell peppers.

The abovementioned foods are just a few different sources.  A diet full vitamin- and mineral rich fruits and vegetables, as well as protein-rich foods (can be animal- or plant-based sources), is a good lifestyle choice to make, to help supply these critical amino acids to the body.  Other nutrients that also aids collagen-production include vitamin C, copper and zinc.  For best results, regardless of your age, cut back on or cut out too much sugars and refined carbohydrates from your diet, as this cause inflammation and damages collagen.

Today there is many different collagen supplements on the market, ranging from powders and shakes, to tablets.  Researchers agree that this can aid your body’s collagen-production and boost skin elasticity, but warns people that it is not closely regulated. 

So before purchasing and using a product; do make sure it is from a reputable provider. Also; don’t forget the wonder of water – drinking enough water will also help to keep your body nourished on the inside, as well as moisturized on the outside!