In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are on a constant quest for the secret to youthful, radiant skin. While countless skincare products promise to turn back the clock, the key to a glowing complexion might be closer than you think – right in your kitchen. According to skincare expert Doctor Dave Reilly, a senior scientist at Absolute Collagen, incorporating five delicious foods into your diet could help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to one essential ingredient: collagen.

Collagen, a protein naturally produced by our bodies, is renowned for its wound-healing and skin-boosting properties. Packed with the power to improve skin elasticity and hydration, collagen has been the subject of numerous studies highlighting its potential to promote healthy, youthful-looking skin. However, as we age, our body’s natural collagen production begins to decline, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and a loss of skin firmness.

Enter the humble chicken – a protein-packed powerhouse that could be the key to unlocking your skin’s potential. Chicken is rich in amino acids and minerals that help the collagen in your body work more effectively, giving your skin a natural boost with every bite. Studies have indicated that chicken bone collagen peptides might be a particularly potent anti-aging nutritional component, while chicken feet, primarily composed of cartilage, are an often-overlooked source of high collagen content.

For those who prefer a meatless option, egg whites are another excellent choice for collagen support. A staple among gym-goers for their muscle recovery properties, egg whites are particularly rich in proline, an amino acid that serves as an essential building block for collagen. Along with glycine, another amino acid found in egg whites, proline plays a crucial role in promoting the production of collagen in the body, leading to healthier, more radiant skin.

As we head into the summer months, berries are not only a refreshing and delicious snack but also a skin-loving superfood. These tiny fruits are packed with vitamin C, a nutrient that plays a vital role in promoting collagen production within the body. Studies have shown that just one cup of strawberries can provide over 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C, making them a powerful ally in the fight against wrinkles and dull skin.

While berries are a well-known source of vitamin C, a more surprising addition to the list of collagen-boosting foods is garlic. This flavorful vegetable is rich in sulfur compounds, which are essential for forming collagen fibers and maintaining skin tissue integrity. Studies have also highlighted garlic’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting that it may trigger anti-wrinkle effects in the body. You don’t need to consume garlic by the bulb to reap its benefits – simply adding a few cloves to your favorite dishes, such as spaghetti Bolognese, can help support your skin’s health.

For vegetarians and vegans, legumes such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent alternatives for collagen support. These plant-based protein sources are rich in essential amino acids that aid in collagen production, making them a cost-effective and versatile addition to a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and dips.