Turmeric, amla, ghee, more: Ayurveda expert lists right foods to prevent dry skin, stop ageing signs

Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, elastic and youthful. It acts like scaffolding beneath the surface, giving the skin its strength and structure. As you age, natural collagen production begins to slowdown. This leads to sagging, fine-lines, and dryness.

With the right foods and habits, you can help maintain your skin's natural firmness and glow. “Ayurvedic remedies can help keep  your skin healthy inside out,” explains Dr Monica B Sood, CEO, Navjivan Health Service, Panchkula, Chandigarh. “It’s about sustainable nourishment. Your skin is a reflection of your internal balance, and collagen is central to that,” she adds.

• Amla

Health benefits of amla: Indian gooseberry or amla, is packed with Vitamin C (Image: Canva)

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is packed with Vitamin C. This green berry is a collagen powerhouse. “Just one amla daily can strengthen skin tissues and delay those first signs of wrinkles,” says Dr Sood.

Also read | Ageing signs: Your excessive screen use is silently causing wrinkles, sagging skin, dark spots

• Nuts and seeds

Sesame seeds, almonds and walnuts are loaded with zinc and healthy fats, both critical for collagen creation. Zinc, in particular, supports fibroblasts, the cells behind collagen. “In traditional homes, sesame laddoos aren’t just festive treats, they’re skincare disguised as dessert. Add to that regular oil massages with sesame oil, and you’ve got a double-whammy for youthful skin,” she says.

• Turmeric

Turmeric’s star ingredient, curcumin, works silently behind the scenes to reduce inflammation – the very thing that speeds up collagen breakdown. “When you reduce inflammation, you preserve your skin’s integrity,” suggests Dr Sood. A cup of turmeric-infused milk before bed isn’t just comforting – it’s a collagen therapy.

• Greens and drumstick leaves

Leafy greens like spinach and moringa are bursting with chlorophyll and antioxidants. It helps to protect existing collagen from the damage caused by free radicals. In Ayurveda, moringa powder is often stirred into dals and soups as a daily detoxifier. It protects the skin and prepares it for regeneration.

Also read | Best home remedies to stop signs of ageing on skin

• Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha’s reputation as an stress-reducing adaptogen is well known, but it’s also a collagen-booster thanks to its effect on DHEA – a hormone linked to skin hydration and elasticity. Regular doses can help calm the body’s vata dosha, keeping skin firm, stress-free, and happy.

• Ghee and warm milk

Rich in short-chain fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, ghee lubricates the body’s tissues and supports collagen absorption. Combine it with warm milk and turmeric before bed, and you’ve got a nightly ritual rooted in centuries of beauty wisdom.

FAQs on Diet Tips to Keep Skin Healthy:

1. How does Vitamin C benefit the skin?

Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity and firmness.

2. What foods are rich in zinc and healthy fats for skin health?

Nuts and seeds, such as sesame seeds, almonds, and walnuts, are excellent sources of zinc and healthy fats that support collagen creation.

3. How can turmeric help in maintaining healthy skin?

Turmeric contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and preserves the skin’s integrity, helping prevent collagen breakdown.

4. What role do leafy greens play in skin health?

Leafy greens like spinach and moringa are high in chlorophyll and antioxidants, protecting existing collagen from damage caused by free radicals.

5. How does Ashwagandha contribute to skin health?

Ashwagandha boosts collagen production by affecting DHEA, a hormone linked to skin hydration and elasticity, and helps reduce stress, which can impact skin firmness.

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