Let's cut to the chase, shall we? Collagen is wildly important for nearly every function of the human body, from skin elasticity to joint health and muscle growth. However, steady collagen synthesis is not guaranteed! In order to keep collagen levels high, you have two options: diet and supplements. Since collagen-rich foods are few and far between (unless you like eating chicken cartilage and bone broth!) your best bet is to consume a pure collagen supplement and eat foods that can stimulate your body to produce new collagen. Here are the top 6 collagen-boosting foods worth adding to your grocery list!
Collagen isn't just a flashy ingredient in skincare products or supplements. No matter who you are or what products you buy, you already have collagen in your body! In fact, it is the most abundant protein in the human body! The body produces collagen naturally; It can be found in nearly every connective tissue including the muscles, skin, blood vessels, eyes, cartilage and ligaments, and more. As a structural protein, it can be thought of as a building block that supports these connective tissues and provides them with strength, volume, and flexibility.
So you may be wondering why you would bother with a collagen supplement if the body can produce it on its own. Throughout one's youth, the production of collagen is steady and collagen fibrils are still healthy and strong. However, with age, these collagen fibers can become damaged by free radicals and sun exposure and the body starts to produce less and less collagen. This gradual decrease in collagen aligns with the common signs of aging like joint pain, fine lines, and wrinkles, and bone loss. Luckily, multiple studies have shown that consuming pure collagen peptides (the supplement form of collagen) may reverse signs of aging or improve the symptoms, aches, and pains that are the hallmark of the aging process.
The health benefits of collagen include:
It's important to note that these health benefits are only achieved by consuming collagen, topical collagen is not as effective or widely beneficial. When consumed, collagen is broken down into its amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Then, these amino acids stimulate collagen formation. Though collagen cannot be found in many food sources, there are foods that contain essential amino acids that then kick collagen production into high gear!
Collagen is considered safe for daily use and may cause light stomach upset in some people when consumed in high doses. In general, it is safe for anyone's diet regardless of age! If you're wondering more about how to get the most out of your collagen supplement and boost collagen from all angles, consider speaking with a dietitian! Together, you can craft an anti-aging diet that fills in any gaps in your nutrition while setting your body up to produce high-quality collagen.
