Collagen and elasticity are the components of your skin that provide structure. As we age, we lose both, and this results in both a loss of volume in the skin, which can make hollow areas appear more hollow, as well as sagging skin. Recent trends have focused on ways to plump up the skin with fillers and other injectables, but we’re starting to see the downside of too many of these procedures — namely, an overfilled face that looks puffy, but doesn’t necessarily look tighter or more radiant.
Finding ways to preserve collagen or boost collagen and elastin production at a more rapid rate have replaced temporary fixes. But how can you bank collagen? There are always procedures that can help, but so can lifestyle changes, including foods and drinks that support healthy collagen production.
Here are four of the best skin-glowing beverages to drink after 40 because they boost collagen and elasticity.
1. Green Smoothies
When it comes to promoting collagen synthesis, green smoothies are a powerful ally, accepting to experts. They’re packed with nutrient-rich foods like spinach, kale, and fruits — and it’s the leafy greens, specifically, that play a key role in helping to build collagen production. Spinach, for example, is an excellent source of vitamin C, a vital nutrient for collagen formation. Kale and collard green are also wondering sources of vitamin A (essential for maintaining healthy skin) and vitamin K (which plays a role in wound healing and skin cell renewal).
2. Citrus Fruits Juices
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons have a high amount of vitamin C, which is so important for collagen production and overall skin health. This nutrients acts as a “co-factor for certain enzymes that are involved in building collagen molecules.”
When adding citrus juices to your diet, it’s much better to juice these yourself at home rather than relying on store-bought juice, which is usually filled with sugar and preservatives.
3. Bone Broth
Bone broth is an old health remedy that is made by simmering bones and tissue from meat in a slow way that extracts collagen, gelatin, and essential nutrients that are amazing for your skin, joints, and overall health. You may have noticed collagen powders and supplements are big business these days. But there is little scientific proof that they can all be absorbed in a functional way by the body so that they help synthesize more collagen in your skin. Sipping bone broth guarantees your body is getting this collagen in an absorbable way, though.
4. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate contains antioxidants, including ellagic acid, which holds “signifiant promise” in promoting collagen production and skin protection. Free radicals from factors like UV exposure, pollution, and stress are one of the leading causes of skin degradation, including changes in texture. And this is where pomegranate comes in to save the day: its ellagic acid acts as a scavenger out to neutralize skin cell-damaging free radicals. This antioxidant also plays an important role in boosting collagen production.
Additionally, pomegranate has a high content of vitamin C and may improve skin hydration and elasticity. Look for 100 percent pure pomegranate juice with no added sugar and preservatives.
