Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, and it is responsible for keeping your skin firm and elastic, among many other functions. Collagen comes from the Greek word kolla, which means glue, and in many ways, collagen indeed serves as the glue holding your body together.
As you age, your body does not produce as much collagen as before, and that is often reflected in increased wrinkling and the emergence of fine lines in the skin. Fortunately, the right diet can help boost collagen production, keeping your skin in good shape and improving your health overall. To learn more about diet and collagen production in Greenwich, reach out to a seasoned doctor today.
Certain foods provide collagen directly to the skin. One of the best sources of collagen is gelatin, which is also good for hair and nail health. It is important to note, though, that sugar-free gelatin is usually the best choice for anyone who enjoys it. Other types of natural collagen are available from animal bones, so enjoy soups and broths based on bone stock.
Lysine, an amino acid, helps boost collagen production. Adding lysine-rich foods to the diet not only aids with the complexion, but this amino acid also helps promote a healthy immune system. Lysine-rich foods include:
Eating foods featuring shades of orange is often a good idea, as these foods contain beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A will restore damaged collagen and replenish this vital protein. Good sources of beta-carotene include:
However, not every food containing beta-carotene is orange. Spinach and kale are also good sources of this hydrocarbon.
When it comes to important nutrients for healthy skin, vitamins C and E are at the top of the list, working in tandem to produce collagen in the body. While taking supplements is one way to ensure the body receives sufficient vitamins C and E, the body benefits more when these vitamins are obtained from food.
Besides citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit, there are many more foods rich in vitamin C. These include:
Foods rich in vitamin E include fish — including shellfish — along with sunflower seeds and many types of nuts are also rich in vitamins C and E.
Foods rich in zinc are not only good for a person’s diet and collagen production, but also have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. These foods include:
Those who love tea can happily consume cups of white tea a few times a day. White tea protects collagen in the skin, and that means tea drinkers can often expect fewer wrinkles down the line.
If the aim is to receive the benefits of boosting collagen production, there are also some foods to avoid. Stay away from processed and junk foods, which only harm the skin, and avoid drinking too much caffeine or alcohol or consuming excess sugar. If a Greenwich patient is serious about their diet and collagen production, they should avoid these foods when possible.
If you would like more information on diet and collagen production in Greenwich, as well as other ways to keep your skin looking young and vibrant, call the office of Dr. Edward Jacobson today and arrange a consultation. Dr. Jacobson offers various procedures and techniques to help you look your best while maintaining optimal health.
