Eat collagen rich foods to boost skin elasticity!

Collagen supplements - they seem to be everywhere at the moment and whilst the science behind them is still relatively young, there have been studies coming out showing some good results in terms of the ability of collagen supplements to improve skin elasticity (along with helping join mobility).

Read on, but as always, consult your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

What is collagen?

Collagen is a protein - one of the most common found within the human body & is responsible for the function of pretty much everything: skin, hair, bones, muscles, joints etc.

Our bodies make collagen naturally, but the rate at which we make it declines as we get older - hence those pesky fine lines, sore joints and sagging skin.

How can we help our body make collagen?

When your body makes collagen, it combines amino acids - nutrients you get from eating protein-rich foods, like beef, chicken, fish, beans, eggs & dairy products.

The process also requires vitamin C, zinc and copper. You can get vitamin C by eating citrus fruits, red and green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli and greens. You can get the minerals by eating meats, shellfish, nuts, whole grains and beans. If you are not getting enough of the above, your body can't create collagen.

The best foods for boosting collagen?

The best foods for boosting collagen production are healthy servings of foods packed with protein, vitamins and minerals (something like bone broth is great).

However if you're not getting what you need from your diet, supplements can still help. Hydrolyzed collagen (or “collagen peptide”) powder can offer a good source of collagen.