When most of us hear collagen, we think of our skin and for good reason. Collagen is the most abundant protein found in our bodies and can be found in our skin! Collagen is what gives our skin it’s youthful appearance and elastic nature by replacing dead skin cells.  Most people think supplements and powders are the only sources you can get collagen boosting nutrients from. Truth is, you can get it from food too. And is actually recommended. According to some experts, supplements are no good because the body wont actually use it. It takes food sources for the body to absorb it naturally.

Although our bodies make collagen naturally, as we age it produces less and less of it. Which is why you have issues with wrinkles and looser skin. To avoid that, you’re better off eating these collagen boosting foods such as…

Red Bell Pepper – It’s filled with vitamin C which is crucial for boosting the collagen in skin. Get as much vitamin C as you can in your diet. Great sources include kiwi, grapefruit, green pepper, broccoli, strawberries and oranges.

Tomato: Another red food that’s good for the skin is the tomato. It’s filled with lycopene which is an antioxidant that protects the skin from the environment. Other foods high in lycopene include watermelon and grapefruit.

Sweet potato: Sweet potatoes are full of vitamin A which is good for encouraging the body to increase collagen production. Other foods high in vitamin A include carrots, cantaloupe, mangoes and apricots.

READ MORE: Skip the Supplements – These 7 Foods Naturally Boost Collagen In The Body