Forget supplements. These 5 foods will boost collagen naturally

While collagen supplements remain popular, experts suggest that consuming collagen-rich and collagen-boosting foods may be a more natural and effective approach to maintaining youthful skin and overall health. (Image: Canva)

Collagen has taken the beauty and wellness world by storm, with many people turning to supplements to enhance their skin’s elasticity and maintain a youthful glow. This essential protein helps keep the skin firm and plump, making it a sought-after ingredient in skincare products and health regimes. But is consuming collagen supplements the only way to support its production?

5 natural foods that boost collagen

Well-known dermatologist Dr Garekar, who frequently shares skincare advice on social media, recently highlighted five foods that she claims are even more effective at promoting collagen production than supplements. In a recent Instagram post, she not only listed these foods but also explained which parts contain the highest collagen content and the nutrients that contribute to its synthesis.

Also Read | The collagen cure: 7 natural ways to fight ageing and boost your skin’s health

Here are Dr Garekar’s top five collagen-boosting foods:

• Bone broth: A powerhouse of collagen, often considered one of the most effective dietary sources.
• Chicken & fish: The highest collagen concentration is found in the skin and scales, making whole fish and skin-on chicken excellent choices.
• Citrus fruits & berries: These are loaded with vitamin C, a crucial component for collagen formation.
• Egg whites: Packed with proline, an amino acid essential for collagen synthesis.
• Leafy green vegetables: High in chlorophyll, which supports collagen production in the body.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dr Garekar l Dermatologist (@garekarsmddermatologyclinic)

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What exactly is collagen?

"Collagen is a fundamental protein in the human body, playing a key role in maintaining the structure and integrity of various tissues. It makes up approximately 30% of the body’s total protein", Shabana Parveen, clinical nutritionist, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, tells moneycontrol.com. This structural protein is essential for the skin, muscles, bones, ligaments, and connective tissues, helping to maintain their strength and elasticity.

In the skincare world, collagen is particularly valued for its role in keeping the skin firm, smooth, and resilient. "However, as we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and a loss of skin elasticity. This is why many people turn to supplements, skincare products, or dietary changes to replenish collagen levels," Parveen adds.

Also Read | Boost collagen production: Keep your skin youthful, reduce wrinkles with these 10 foods in daily diet

While collagen supplements remain popular, experts suggest that consuming collagen-rich and collagen-boosting foods may be a more natural and effective approach to maintaining youthful skin and overall health.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.