You may have heard about the latest
skin rejuvenation treatment that can reduce wrinkles and boost collagen to give you a healthier glow, but these quick-fix solutions only provide optimal results when you also make changes to your diet. Skincare specialists often recommend a healthy diet coupled with supplements that promote healthy cell production and, over time, work towards restoring the skin.
While topical products such as collagen creams and elastin serums can provide temporary results, these compounds are too structurally dense to even enter the dermis, which means your cells are not affected by the product in any way. You need an ‘inside out’ approach for improving your skin tone and reducing wrinkles, and there are several types of foods that can keep skin looking strong and resilient, and reduce the risk of wrinkles. Here are your best picks for collagen-boosting foods:
Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes are high in fiber and a great way to fill up at a meal, but they also contain a high concentration of hyaluronic acid. Beans and lentils also contain protein which is essential for healthy hair, skin and nails. Just add 1/4 to ½ cup of beans to your daily diet to start enjoying the skin benefits.
Tofu and Soy
Soy milk, tofu and soy beans are your best bets for increasing collagen and also for slowing down the aging process. Soy contains enzymes that actually help to increase skin elasticity and make the skin appear more resilient. You can look forward to healthier, stronger skin and also healthier hair when you start eating more tofu and add soy products to your daily diet.
Red Vegetables
Red vegetables including beet, red peppers, cabbage and tomatoes contain a number of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are essential for collagen growth. These vegetables can be used in a number of dishes.
Avocados
Avocado oil is commonly used in organic facial products because it replenishes lost moisture and helps the skin look firm and more toned. Avocados contain high levels of healthy fats and are packed with vitamins and minerals. Eating 2-3 servings of fresh avocado in the form of avocado slices or guacamole can help boost collagen production and keep your skin well-hydrated.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and other types of lettuce are rich in antioxidants and can also give your collagen levels a boost. These vegetables also help to improve the texture and tone of the skin by increasing elasticity and increasing the moisture content of your skin at the cellular level.
Citrus Fruits
Oranges, grapefruit and lemons are your best picks for boosting collagen production because they contain high levels of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for healthy cell production and growth, and you’ll also get a daily dose of other vitamins and minerals.
Salmon and Tuna
Salmon and fatty tuna contain Omega-3s, which are essential for healthy skin and hair. These healthy fats also support and promote collagen production, so you will start to notice that your skin appears smoother and more toned in a short period of time. If you don’t eat fish, you can still get your Omega-3s by eating cashews, almonds or Brazil nuts or flaxseed on a regular basis.
Learn more about anti-aging foods by consulting with a
medical spa or
anti-aging specialist in your area. Your specialist may be able to design a complete anti-aging meal and supplement plan for you and help you improve the texture, tone and appearance of your skin within weeks.