In a previous blog post we discussed the importance of collagen for the skin. Higher levels of collagen reduce the appearance of wrinkles and leaving the skin looking younger and plumper. While there are a number of lasers, dermal fillers, and Botox® available to treat wrinkles, you may be able to eat your way to a more youthful complexion.
The following foods help your body produce collagen and improve the quality of your skin:
- Soya Bean Milk, tofu and any soy-based products: soy contains an isoflavone called genistein. Genistein blocks enzymes that would otherwise destroy the body’s collagen.
- Garlic: garlic contains sulfur, which helps the body to produce collagen, as well as taurine and lipoid acid, which support damaged collagen fibers.
- Tomatoes: tomatoes are rich in lycopene, and antioxidant that inhibits enzymes that destroy collagen. Antioxidants also neutralize free radicals, which also destroy collagen.
- Fish: fish is rich in omega fatty acids that help keep skin soft and supple.
- Citrus Fruit: citrus fruit, such as oranges and lemons, are rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body to produce collagen.
- Spinach: spinach is also loaded with vitamin C, iron, and a whole load of other nutrients that keep the body young and healthy.
- Pig’s Feet (Yum!): pig’s feet are loaded with collagen and other nutrients that promote the production of collagen.
There are plenty of recipes available that include these different collagen-boosting foods. For optimal beauty, try eating these foods raw to absorb the most nutrients (except the pig’s feet, that is).
