Collagen is a naturally occurring protein within the body that preserves your skin’s elasticity as you age, keeping your complexion firm and wrinkle free. However, as you grow older your body begins to produce less collagen on its own, so tailoring your diet to include foods that may bolster your skin’s barrier can make all the difference in combatting signs of aging and maintaining an ageless glow. For a diet that supports your overall wellness and aids in clearer, healthier skin we spoke with NYC dermatologist, Dr. Hadley King to get her input on the foods you should be prioritizing day to day to keep signs of aging at bay.
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Chia Seeds
As a general rule, a diet that will benefit your body will also have a significant positive impact on your skin as well. Chia seeds are a great addition to any smoothie or yogurt parfait as they’re packed with fatty acids which have been know to help smooth and preserve the surface of the skin. “Omega 3 fatty acids help contribute to the skin barrier function. Eating these healthy fats helps to support the skin barrier,” notes King.
Blueberries
Antioxidants are one of the most important ingredients to include in your diet when catering to your skin, and blueberries are rich in them. “Antioxidants help to combat damage from free radicals from UV rays and pollution. These free radicals can contribute to premature aging of the skin,” notes King. Other foods that can offer ample antioxidants to the body are pecans and strawberries.
Tomatoes
Not only do tomatoes make a delicious addition to any salad and the most classic pizza topping, but they’re also wonderful for fighting off signs of aging and promoting a smooth and healthy complexion, according to King. “Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and increasing dietary levels of lycopene helps to ensure the presence of this potent antioxidant in the skin where it can protect from sun damage and make the skin smoother,” she explains.
Kiwi
Vitamin C is another form of antioxidant, making it essential for fighting off free radicals and working to strengthen the skin’s barrier which will work as a means to keep your complexion ageless. “Kiwi fruit is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen and can readily be absorbed from many fruits and vegetables.”
Collagen Supplements
King hesitantly notes that collagen drinks and supplements have not necessarily been confirmed to translate directly into smoother and firmer skin, but they may be worth adding into your diet on top of these other options for a stronger base. “The jury is still out on whether collagen will preferentially concentrate in the skin when we consume it. If it does, then that helps our skin by directly increasing collagen,” she notes. “If it doesn't, then potentially it is helping by providing amino acid building blocks for our body to produce collagen.”
