This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
When it comes to anti-aging, collagen is one of the most vital proteins for your body to maintain a youthful complexion and preserve elasticity in your skin which will minimize the appearance of sagging, fine lines and wrinkles. Naturally occurring in your body, collagen can also be consumed through your daily diet, found in foods such as chicken, berries and garlic. As you grow older however, your body begins to produce less collagen which leads to the telltale signs of aging which we all know and dread. Therefore, it can be useful to regularly consume a collagen supplement or tailor your diet to include more collagen rich foods in order to maintain your youthful complexion and fight off deep wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.
Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day from a diet perspective, providing you with essential nutrients which will energize you in the coming hours, setting the tone for the rest of your meals. However, breakfast can also offer some profound skincare benefits, and with the right collagen packed breakfast, you may be able to include your eating regimen as a valued part of your anti-aging routine. According to health experts, as you grow older, there’s one breakfast you should be eating regularly in order to reap the most anti-aging benefits, fighting off wrinkles and preserving your skin’s elasticity for years to come.
It’s no secret that lean protein is a valuable addition to your diet for weight maintenance and loss, but it is also one of the best ways to increase collagen in your body, preserving your skin from signs of aging and working in tandem with your best skincare habits in order to limit the development of wrinkles. “The best collagen packed breakfast you should be eating should be rich in lean protein, fiber, healthy fatty acids and fruits and vegetables,” suggests nurse practitioner Jill Canes.
“Have eggs, chicken or fish with quinoa, beans, nuts and berries. You can also have fruits such as strawberry and oranges, or vegetables like cilantro.” Perhaps the easiest way to infuse your breakfast with collagen is by creating an omelet in the morning packed with veggies and served with a side of fruit. This will not only keep you full for hours, but also offer an array of vitamins to nourish both your body and your skin, with collagen from the eggs.
Collagen is actually a protein itself, so adding more sources to your diet can help to enhance natural production of this essential macronutrient in your body. “Lean protein allows your body to have the essential building blocks it needs to produce more collagen. Fruits and vegetables like strawberry and kale are rich in Vitamin C, increasing the production of hyaluronic acid and hence collagen production,” explains Canes.
While lean protein such as eggs or chicken may be the best sources of protein and therefore collagen, if you follow a vegan diet you can still preserve the elasticity of your skin through consumption of an array of fruits and vegetables. “Other nutrients that aid the process of collagen production include zinc, vitamin C, and copper. So, fruits and vegetables high in vitamins and minerals are also a friend to supple skin. And, for even more dramatic results, be sure to stay away from too much sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can cause inflammation and damage collagen,” suggests clinical dermatologist Dr. Ailynne Marie Vergara-Wijangco.
Collagen is not the only factor in your skincare that can help to ward off visible signs of aging for smoother, more radiant looking skin. If your complexion suffers from sun or free radical damage it can also be subject to premature aging, but food items which provide collagen to your body can help to minimize these concerns. “These ingredients can also ease inflammation and are rich in antioxidants to prevent free radical damage. The increased collagen production and reduced inflammation can all help to reduce wrinkles,” says Canes. Not only are lean proteins, fruits and vegetables a valued addition to your diet to improve your overall health, but your skin can even reap the benefits, and you’ll notice a more even and less inflamed complexion with regular consumption of such foods.
It’s always a good idea to include lean protein as well as fruits and veggies into your breakfast for a healthy and light start to your morning, but if you’re looking for an extra line of defense against visible aging, this breakfast is your best choice. Loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and collagen, an omelet with spinach and a side of citrus fruit will help to preserve elasticity in your skin in combination with a strong skincare routine, fighting off free radical damage and deep wrinkles so you can look and feel your best at any age.
