Collagen is a tough protein that constitutes 30 percent of your body's protein. This substance supports the structural integrity of your connective tissues, bones and tendons. Certain vitamins, including vitamins A, C, E and K, can help build, rebuild and maintain healthy collagen in your body. Consuming a well-balanced, vitamin-rich diet can be important for a healthy body with adequate collagen.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an important nutrient for aiding in the growth and repair of your body's tissues. This vitamin is also necessary for the production of collagen, and therefore helps form skin, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels in your body. This vitamin is important for wound healing, and to both build and maintain healthy bones, teeth and cartilage. In addition to a supplement, you can obtain this vitamin in many foods such as oranges, limes, kiwis, grapefruits, broccoli and kale.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A can be important for your skin health. Some topical applications containing forms of vitamin A, such as retinol and retinaldehyde, may help repair skin damage that occurs upon aging or skin damage. A product called Tretinoin, or Retin-A, is a topical medication that reduces the signs of aging by stimulating the formation of collagen in your body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Research suggests that this vitamin A-containing product may improve your skin color and wrinkles, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. More evidence is required. In addition to supplemental and topical forms, vitamin A can be found in foods such as liver, eggs, carrots, squash and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another vitamin that can help build collagen in your body. This vitamins can raise both collagen formation and the strength of supporting structures such as skin, tendons and ligaments. According to Southwestern Medical Center, this vitamin plays a key role in wound healing. You can obtain this vitamin as a supplement or through your diet. Good sources include spinach, avocado, almonds, nut butters and olive oil.
Vitamin K
According to Southwestern Medical Center, vitamin K is important for proper wound healing. In addition, this vitamin may play a role specifically in collagen synthesis and maintenance. According to Pine Canyon, some animal research has suggested that vitamin K deficiencies are associated with abnormalities in collagen. Studies are inconclusive and human studies are necessary to establish any associations. In addition to a supplement, you can find vitamin K specifically in dark leafy greens.
