As you begin to age, collagen production begins to go down. Also, collagen levels are affected by illness or infections. Luckily, you can consume a variety of foods rich in specific vitamins and minerals that will boost production of collagen. Consult a health care professional before increasing your intake of any vitamin, mineral or supplement.
Collagen Information
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, collagen is mainly used to make skin, muscles, tendons, blood vessels, ligaments and scar tissue. Collagen is approximately a quarter of all the protein in you body. 3DChem.com says that collagen is used to help improve your skin's elasticity. Collagen is also responsible for helping to keep your ligaments and tendons strong. In addition, collagen may also be used during cosmetic surgery, such as lip enhancement.
Oranges
Oranges are a rich source of vitamin C. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, vitamin C is important for helping your body create collagen. Vitamin C is also responsible for protecting your body against free radicals -- unstable molecules that form when food you consume is transformed into energy for your body. Free radicals are believed to play a role in the aging and disease, and encourage the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Vitamin C helps to neutralize damage that free radicals may cause. Low levels of vitamin C in your body can result in rough, dry skin.
Swordfish
Swordfish is one of the best dietary sources of vitamin B3, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin B3, or niacin, is mainly used to assist your body in producing numerous stress- and sex-related hormones. The American Academy of Dermatology states that vitamin B3 helps to increase collagen production.
Cashews
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cashews are a good source of copper. Copper is an essential nutrient that plays an important role in collagen production. Copper is also an antioxidant -- acting as a defense from free radicals.
Member Comments