Foods That Promote Collagen

Collagen is about one quarter of the protein in your body, according to the website 3Dchecm.com. Collagen is the main protein that helps to support and connect tissues. Also, collagen is responsible for making skin, ligaments, muscles, blood vessels and scar tissue. To help enhance collagen, you can consume a selection of foods rich in vitamins.

Vitamin C

Excellent sources of vitamin C include green peppers, oranges, spinach, winter squash and cabbage. You need to have an adequate amount of vitamin C in your daily diet, as it is water-soluble and is not stored in your body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of body tissues. In addition, it assists in the production of collagen. Vitamin C can also be used to heal wounds and maintain bones.

Copper

Copper can be found in foods such as oysters, lobsters, crab, nuts, chocolate, black pepper, peanuts, soybeans and enriched cereals. Copper acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect your body against damaging particles called free radicals. These compounds can contribute to the development of the aging process and also cause a number of health conditions such as heart disease. According to UMMC, copper plays an important part in assisting in the production of collagen.

Niacin

Niacin, or vitamin B3, can be found in foods like red meats, tuna, peanuts, liver, swordfish and brewer's yeast. Niacin is part of the B group of vitamins and assists the body in the creation of hormones. Also, it helps to promote healthy blood circulation. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that niacin has been found to help increase the production of collagen and to reduce skin hyperpigmentation.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Dec 15, 2010

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