After losing weight, you might notice looser skin on various parts of your body. While this might seem jarring at first, this is normal and inevitable for many after a major change like shedding pounds, experts say. We checked in with health, nutrition and skin experts to learn more about one especially collagen-rich food that can help tighten loose skin as part of a healthy, vitamin-filled diet.
Read on for tips and suggestions from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elaine F. Kung, MD, founder of Future Bright Dermatology, skincare expert Robyn Newmark, founder & CEO of Newmark Beauty, registered nutritionist Jay Cowin, NNCP, RNT, RNC, CHN, CSNA, Director of Formulations at ASYSTEM, and online performance and nutrition coach Seamus Sullivan, B.S., CSCS, PN1
How Eggs (And Especially Egg Whites) Boost Collagen Production
While containing a myriad of health benefits and vitamins, eggs can support your weight loss journey at any stage— providing ample protein before, during or after you reach your goals. Egg whites, Kung explains, are especially helpful when it comes to producing and boosting collagen.
"Egg whites are rich in collagen-boosting amino acids and egg yolks are a decent source of collagen," Kung says. "Eggs are an affordable and versatile ingredient that can help us meet our collagen needs," she adds. Newmark agrees, and notes that egg whites are "rich in proline," one of the amino acids "required for collagen formation."
Additional Weight Loss-Related Health Benefits
When preparing a meal with egg whites, experts stress also including other sources of vitamins and minerals, like skin-loving green vegetables and leafy greens. Eggs and egg whites can easily be inserted into many meals, Sullvan says, providing protein "that can be paired with many things like veggies." This food "works great for a weight loss goal," he continues, as protein helps maintain muscle mass "to help maintain a great metabolism while one is trying to lose weight."
Cowin also points out that egg whites are "very high in protein," and also "low in calories," so you can prevent gaining any lost weight back when eating them for breakfast, as opposed to other foods. Cowin dubs them "a good source of vitamin B" and suggests making an "omelet with them plus vegetables," to further promote your overall health and especially glowing, supple skin. "Some good vegetable options include spinach, mushrooms, and onions," he recommends. The more you know!
