These Are The Best Collagen-Boosting Foods For Clear Skin

You've probably heard it used to promote the next big product or overheard people chatting about in a trendy healthy store over the past few years, but how many of us actually know what collagen is, let alone its benefits? We'll be honest, we learnt a whole lot of new information while researching collagen-boosting foods in an attempt to understand the craze and why everyone is so obsessed with this trending protein. So, let us share all of our newfound knowledge with you, starting with the best foods to eat for collagen production and as a result, clear skin.

To start off with, collagen is actually the most abundant protein in our body that's made up of amino acids that help to build healthy bones and muscles as well as promote healthy skin. As we age, collagen levels in our bodies naturally decline, which is why you might notice your skin losing some of its elasticity, as well as a loss of muscle mass and more prevalent joint pain. This all sounds a bit bleak, but it turns out that there is an easy and natural way to keep these levels optimal. To combat wrinkles, boost your metabolism and even reverse signs of hair loss, consuming enough collagen through food is the way to go. While there are supplements available, the best way to maintain great levels of this protein is by going directly to the source. Here are the best foods to incorporate into your diet to boost your collagen levels.

Tomatoes

Lycopene is an antioxidant that has been shown to help protect your skin from sun damage, and tomatoes are full of it. They also contain other beneficial nutrients like vitamin C, so they're definitely worth adding to your plate.

Salmon

Salmon provides a great source of omega 3 essential fatty acids which are great for overall skin health and for reducing inflammation. Foods high in these essential acids can also help to moisturise the body from the inside, resulting in a more youthful appearance.

Avocado

Everyone's brunch favourite is actually really helpful in maintaining healthy skin and hair. Avocadoes are naturally high in vitamin E that which is beneficial to overall skin health and can even help to slow the breakdown of collagen.

Eggs

The yolk and shell of an egg is one of the few foods that naturally contains collagen. Eggs also contain sulfur, which is important in the production of collagen and helps to support joints as well.

Berries

Berries are a great way to keep up your collagen levels as they've been shown to help prevent damage from the sun. Berries also contain vitamin C which helps amino acids in your body link up to form collagen.

Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are especially high in zinc, which supports skin health and can also slow the breakdown of collagen in your body, leading to youthful skin for longer. They're also easy to incorporate as a snack throughout the day.

Loved this? Here's how to boost your immunity ahead of the holiday season.