Collagen is a tough, glue-like protein that accounts for approximately 30 percent of body protein, according to MedlinePlus. This protein aids in the formation of your tendons, bones and connective tissues. It also makes your skin firm, toned and elastic. As you age and increase your exposure to the sun, collagen production may decline, causing your skin to lose some of its tone and elasticity. A variety of foods can help your body form the collagen needed to keep your skin vibrant and your body healthy and strong.
Oranges
You can help your body form collagen by adding oranges into your daily diet. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, a water-soluble antioxidant that is necessary for collagen formation. Vitamin C helps your body form the collagen needed to build and maintain strong bones, skin, tendons and tissues. It also strengthens your immune system so that your body can fight off infections, viruses and diseases. Other good sources of vitamin C include orange juice, tomatoes, potatoes, strawberries, grapefruits, broccoli, sweet potatoes and sweet red bell peppers.
Chicken
Adding chicken into your daily diet can boost collagen formation in your body. Chicken contains a healthy amount of lysine, an amino acid that plays an important role in the formation of collagen in your body. Other food sources rich in lysine include turkey, red meat, pork, Parmesan cheese, Atlantic cod, tuna, sardines, nuts, lentils, peas, eggs, soybeans, tofu, fenugreek seeds, Brewer's yeast and beans.
Liver
Eating liver can increase collagen formation in your body. Liver is rich in a copper enzyme called lysyl oxidase. Lysyl oxidase supports the interaction of collagen and elastin, proteins that help form strong, flexible connective tissues. This enzyme also strengthens the connective tissue in your heart, blood vessels and bones. Other food sources rich in copper include shellfish, crab meat, clams, semi-sweet chocolate, oysters, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, peanut butter, wheat bran cereals and lentils.
Member Comments