A lot of us want to stay youthful and glowing all throughout the years. In order to have beautiful skin, soft and shiny hair, and strong nails we need collagen. But what is collagen’s role in staying youthful? Collagen is the most abundant protein that’s present in our bodies. It’s mostly found in our bones, muscles, skin, blood vessels, our digestive system, and even in our tendons. It’s also what gives our skin strength and elasticity. Plus, helps with replacing dead skin cells. Sounds familiar? It’s because collagen is one of the main ingredients that can be found in a lot of cosmetic products. May it be lotions, creams, even in shampoos.

As we age, our body’s collagen production begins to slow down. Signs of aging can begin to show; wrinkles, sagging skin, and joint pains can be experienced as well. Lifestyle can also be a factor that can result in the depletion of collagen levels, such as having a diet that consists of high sugar, smoking and even high amounts of prolonged exposure under the sun.

Quinoa

Just one cup of this wonder grain can give you more than 8 grams of collagen-supportive protein. It also has zinc that can assist with the amino acid-to-collagen transformation. It is extremely high in antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals. The vitamin A in quinoa can also help stimulate the skin to produce new collagen over time, which can result in the reduced appearance of fine lines and strengthen the skin to make it look young, vibrant and firm.

Dark Leafy Greens

This includes spinach, kale, and mustard greens that contains a collagen-boosting trifecta of vitamins A, C, and Zinc. These foods are rich in antioxidants and boost collagen and even protects your skin from sun damage. It can also protect you from free radicals that break down collagen. Studies have shown that consuming chlorophyll increases the production of collagen in our body and can provide strong antioxidant activity against UV damage that can cause premature aging.

Chia Seeds

These little seeds are packed with protein and it’s an amazing source of Omega 3. No matter how tiny, it contains all the 9 essential amino acids that our body needs for growth and repair of blood cells, tissue, muscle, and production of collagen. It’s also high in fiber and could help your body eliminate toxins. Plus, Chia seeds can even control your blood sugar levels.

Chickpeas

This little legume contains a lot of the components that support collagen production: protein, vitamins A, and C, Zinc, and Thiamine. It also has Vitamin B that also helps in skin revitalization and wound healing.

How about collagen supplements?

While it sounds easier to just grab a bottle of supplements from the drugstore for anti-aging benefits, it’s not always easily absorbed or utilized by the body. Supplements can also vary and it may differ from the levels of absorption depending on how potent the supplement is.

Natural food is always highly recommended for boosting your collage intake. After all, doing it the natural way is always better. Not only that, you can maximize the benefits of the food. Compared to collagen supplements, you can even receive other vitamins and minerals than a single pill that’s packed with just collagen.