Eating Collagen-Rich Foods Has Head-to-Toe Benefits, According to Experts

Just like brushing our teeth or combing our hair, anti-aging has become its own daily process in our lives. And even though many of us haven't yet experienced the crux of aging skin, most people have experienced the pressure to look young. But is there another way to push off wrinkles that don't involve overspending on skincare products?

According to Brooke Scheller, a certified nutrition specialist, there could be. It all starts with collagen, one of the body's most abundant proteins. "It's a protein found in our connective tissues, like muscles, skin, and the digestive system, that helps provide structure and elasticity," she explains. Isabel Smith, a registered dietitian, adds, "Collagen is the key to various structural components of the body. It's involved in our skin, hair, nails, bones, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments."

Naturally produced collagen begins to decline in our 20s, Scheller notes, and that's why eating collagen-rich foods can help keep its production going. "Collagen is widely known to break down over time, leading to physical changes, including wrinkles and sagging skin. It can also begin to break down our muscles and joints, too," she says. Smith adds, "Eating collagen may help to boost collagen in the body and is also a good source of extra protein."

While Scheller says that it's possible to see results with collagen supplements, especially ones that contain only collagen peptides, she outlined a list of foods that you can work into your diet, too. Sure, the grocery store may not be as fun as Sephora, but it'll be a cost-effective and healthy way to see results.

Keep scrolling to learn the benefits of collagen and the best collagen-rich foods.