As we get older, collagen production in the body will weaken. This is what ultimately causes the skin to become wrinkled, embossed fine lines, and sagging.
Collagen is an important part of tissue. Collagen is a type of protein that works with keratin to give skin strength, elasticity, smoothness, and endurance.
Here are some foods that can increase collagen production in your body:
1. Vegetables
Dark green vegetables are foods that contain collagen-producing agents. Add green leafy vegetables like spinach, cabbage and kale to your food every day.
In a study in France, green vegetables were able to improve skin hydration and elasticity. In addition, the regular consumption of kale, spinach, seeds, and asparagus also helps the body to produce collagen so as to effectively utilize proteins.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent cell inflammation. When the cells are weak, the body can not produce collagen effectively. Omega-3 fatty acids will ensure the body's cells work well to build collagen.
Foods that contain lots of omega-3s include salmon, sardines, and cashews. In addition, you can also get omega-3 supplements in capsule form.
3. Soybeans
Soybeans are rich in genistin, a compound that can increase the production of collagen and fight the signs of aging. Nutrient content in soybeans can create a more elastic and toned skin. You can also eat processed from soybeans, such as tempeh, tofu, or soy milk.
4. Chocolate
In a study conducted in Germany, cocoa content in chocolate can increase blood flow. In addition, chocolate is also able to protect skin damage caused by UV exposure. To get maximum results you should eat dark chocolate.
5. Vitamin C and A
According to Mayo Clinic, foods rich in vitamin C will make the skin look healthy, because vitamin C can increase the growth of collagen. Meanwhile, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, multiplying the intake of vitamin A can stimulate the body's natural collagen. Foods rich in vitamin A can be obtained from beef, liver, eggs, milk, and dark leafy green vegetables.
6. Milk
Milk and all its dairy products are excellent for increasing collagen production. Milk is a source of animal protein that has high lysine levels that are able to form collagen naturally. Lysine proteins can also be obtained from egg whites.
7. Tomatoes
Nutritional content in 100 grams of tomatoes, can meet 21 percent of the daily vitamin requirement that serves as a natural collagen. Tomatoes are also useful for protecting the skin from ultraviolet light, because it contains many lycopene.
That is some food that is believed to increase the production of collagen in the body. As already explained, the production of collagen in the body will decrease with age, and this is something that can not be prevented.
However, if you are an active smoker, try to quit now. Smoking habits can kill collagen because it undermines protein and limits blood flow in the body. So, it's useless to eat foods that contain collagen if you're still smoking, right?
