How to Boost Collagen for Better Skin

Collagen is the most prevalent protein in the human body, and it is found in fat, ligaments, tendons, among other places.  It is critical for bone structure and it basically helps the body to fit together.  Healthy collagen levels are the key to strong and youthful appearance of the skin, as one of its functions is to smooth wrinkles and make the skin resilient, elastic and strong.

“A person produces about 1% less collagen in the skin each year”, so boosting its levels is critical.  Here are some of the ways to stimulate collagen production.

1. Bone Broth and Bovine Collagen for Improved Skin and Muscle Repair
Bone broth and bovine collagen are capable of remediating low collagen and improving both skin and joint health.  Bovine collagen is a protein found in the bones, hides, and cartilage of cows, and it provides types I and III collagen, components in the muscles, bones, ligaments, skin, and nails.


2. Aloe Vera
Whether taken orally or applied topically, aloe vera plan increases collagen production.  You can either apply it in its pure form or use products containing it.  At least one study suggests that taking aloe vera supplement boosts collagen production and improves skin quality.

3. Vitamin C- Rich Foods
Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, which has been scientifically proven to be able to boost collagen production in the human body.  This acid is naturally found in the human body, but its levels decrease as we age.   This is why eating vitamin C- rich foods is very important! Great sources of this nutrient include foods like red peppers, kale, oranges, broccoli, strawberries, and Brussels sprouts. Concentrated hyaluronic acid can be bought at the drugstore.

4. Ginseng
Ginseng is already well-known for its anti-aging effects and ability to help the skin keep its shape. It has been scientifically shown that it protects the skin from UV ray damage, too.  When you drink a ginseng tea or take ginseng supplement, the antioxidants released in the bloodstream protect the cells and promote healthy and glowing skin.

5. Cilantro
Cilantro is packed with vitamin C, which has been associated with increased collagen production. It also contains linoleic acid, a potent anti-aging factor for the skin.  This component contains antioxidants that combat free radicals and keep the skin cells healthy.

6. Algae
Oxidation, one of the things that damage cell growth, can be prevented with the help of algae.  This marine ingredient can be found in the form of oral supplements in any health food store.

7. Light Therapy
Light therapy, also known as low-level laser light therapy, boosts collagen growth to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.

Healthy Foods to Produce Healthy Skin
The foods below not only boost collagen production, but maintain volume and resiliency of the epidermis as well.

Dark green veggies like spinach, kale, and beet greens are said to boost collagen production
Garlic is capable of both boosting collagen production and rebuilding damaged collagen fibers
Oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes, all of which in high in vitamin C content
Berries like blueberries, blackberries and raspberries protect the skin from damage from free radicals and boost collagen
Wild-caught Alaskan salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which provide the skin with additional support