What if your next snack could smooth your skin and lift your spirits? Collagen isn’t just a buzzword in skincare—it’s also tied to how you feel, move, and age. And the best part? You can support your body’s natural collagen production with the right foods. Yep, it’s that simple.
In this Mood Food edition, we’re digging into collagen: what it is, why it matters, and how you can boost it naturally with everyday ingredients.
Let’s glow!
But here’s the catch: collagen production starts to slow down in your 20s, and lifestyle factors like stress, poor diet, and UV exposure speed things up. The result? Wrinkles, stiffness, dull skin—all the stuff we’d rather avoid.
So when you eat to support collagen, you’re not just chasing that glow—you’re supporting your mental well-being, too. It’s a win-win.
Your body can’t make collagen without amino acids. Add these to your menu:
Collagen also plays a role in gut health, which is closely tied to your skin and mood. If your gut’s happy, your glow shows—more on that in our gut reset guide
Try it in: Chicken Bone Broth Ramen or Crispy Skin Salmon with Citrus Salad .
Zinc, copper, and other minerals help stabilize collagen in the body.
Try in: Seaweed Miso Soup or Kale and Apple Slaw.
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis—and it makes your meals more colorful.
Many of these collagen-supporting ingredients—like berries, bell peppers, and leafy greens—also star in our Eat the Rainbow guide, which shows how colorful meals can fuel both body and mind.
Refresh with: Chocolate Mint Berry Bowl or Kiwi Apple Smoothie with Chia Seeds.
Omega-3s and healthy fats help protect existing collagen and keep skin supple.
Whip up: Spiced Chia Smoothie Bowl or Pistachio-Crusted Salmon.
Some foods mess with collagen production. No need to ditch them completely—but go easy on:
So next time you’re thinking about a snack or a quick meal, ask yourself: Will this feed my glow? If yes, your body (and your vibe) will thank you.