Our bodies naturally produce collagen, but production begins to decline after our mid to late 20s. That’s when visible signs of ageing start to surface and skin loses its elasticity.
Adding to the effects of the natural ageing process, toxins and environmental pollutants, excessive sun exposure, smoking and eating a diet high in refined sugar and fried foods also destroys collagen fibres.
Luckily, we don’t have to rely on botox. There are ways to prevent collagen breakdown and boost production naturally. Many foods and supplements contain the nutrients required to form collagen, which makes your diet a powerful weapon against fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Make sure you include these foods and products in your diet arsenal:
NPL Carni Lean
NPL ProLifestyle Collagen Carni Lean is a highly concentrated, bioavailable liquid that efficiently delivers its active ingredients to ensure rapid absorption. It combines the lipotropic properties of L-Carnitine with the potent skin and tissue regenerating and nourishing properties of collagen and grapefruit extract. Carni Lean may also support the synthesis of collagen, promoting healthy skin, while also contributing to improved fat mobilisation.
Bone Broth
While most foods contain antioxidants and other nutrients to help the body synthesise collagen, bone broth is one of those rare foods that contain a highly bioavailable form of collagen that your body can use right away.
Salmon
Salmon contains zinc, a trace mineral that’s been shown to activate the proteins needed for collagen synthesis. Salmon is also a great source of omega 3 essential fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation and boost skin health by moisturising the skin from the inside out.
Green vegetables
Green vegetables are not only some of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, but they may also prevent collagen breakdown. All green veggies, such as bok choy, kale, green beans and broccoli, contain chlorophyll, which research shows may increase collagen in the skin.
Citrus
Vitamin C helps “link” the amino acids together that are needed to form collagen. The antioxidants found in citrus fruit also protect against toxins from the air, food and water that contribute to collagen breakdown and damage the skin’s inner layer. Vitamin C may also help with skin cell repair and regeneration, which is why it’s commonly added to skincare productions.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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