4 Ways To Boost Collagen

Collagen is the most common protein found in the body. It’s present in tendons, fat, and ligaments, among other places. It helps the pieces of our bodies to fit together, and is crucial to the strength of our bone structure. When collagen levels are healthy, cells that contain collagen take on a strong and youthful appearance.

Elastin is another kind of protein in the body. Elastin is found in places in the body that contract, such as arteries and lungs. This is because of elastin’s outstanding characteristic: the ability to snap back into place and maintain its original shape. Elastin and collagen are both proteins found in skin. They work together to give skin its texture and shape. Skin with healthy levels of both collagen and elastin isn’t just more youthful; it’s stronger.

The interesting thing about collagen is that stimulating its growth causes a domino effect. The more collagen you have, the more your body is able to produce and maintain. Read on to find out ways that you can naturally support your body’s collagen production.

1. Foods Rich In Vitamin C

Vitamin C is critical for the synthesis of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is known for promoting quick recovery time and relieving painful joints. Without sufficient levels of vitamin C, your body will not gain the full benefit of foods containing hyaluronic acid. One study suggests that hyaluronic acid can help boost collagen production in the human body. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body, but it decreases as we age. Eating foods rich in vitamin C and amino acids can increase the levels of hyaluronic acid and collagen in the body as both are important for skin. Foods such as oranges, red peppers, kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and strawberries are all rich in vitamin C. Concentrated hyaluronic acid can also be purchased usually at your local pharmacy.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel has long been recognized for its healing and soothing benefits. The reason it works to treat cuts and burns is because the aloe vera plant increases collagen production when applied topically or orally. This cell-growth stimulating property can help boost collagen production in your skin. Aloe can be applied directly to the skin in pure form, or in the form of the many products on the market that contain it. It is suggested that taking an aloe vera oral supplement will improve skin quality.

3. Ginseng

The anti-aging effects of the Panax ginseng plant are well-documented. Ginseng is absorbed into the skin without causing the adverse reactions that many chemical pharmaceuticals cause, and helps skin keep its original shape. It has also been found to promote the growth of collagen. Studies have shown ginseng’s ability to preserve skin against UVB ray damage from the sun. The antioxidants that are released into your bloodstream when you take a ginseng supplement or drink tea that contains ginseng can protect healthy cells and contribute to glowing skin.

4. Algae

Marine plant ingredients are becoming increasingly popular as part of beauty routines. This is because most skin damage is caused by “oxidation” — the exposure of your skin to elements like pollution, which can damage cell growth. Algae is able to prevent oxidation from removing elasticity and collagen from your skin. Algae can be found in most health food stores in the form of oral supplements.