Beauty scientist lists five foods for better skin, hair, and nails

By Howard Lloyd

A beauty scientist has shared the best collagen-boosting foods for better skin, hair, and nails. Collagen is a key protein that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin as well as supporting joints and connective tissues. Production of the protein slows down for most people in their mid-20s, with changes becoming more noticeable later in life. But there are some foods that contain collagen and others that can support its production. Miss Jonquille Chantrey, who has more than two decades of medical experience and has been featured on the BBC , Vogue and The New York Times, and is an ambassador for Reverse Life , said: “Collagen naturally diminishes with age, leading to the visible signs of ageing. “If you’re starting to notice fine lines and wrinkles at an early age, you could consider adding more collagen-boosting foods to your diet. A collagen supplement can of course offer a concentrated source if you are unable to get enough with diet alone.” Bone broth Made by simmering animal bones and tissues for an extended period, bone broth is a versatile option for boosting collagen levels. Miss Chantrey said: “Minerals, gelatin and collagen are extracted and the liquid can be added into soups, stews or just enjoy the broth as a warm drink.” Chicken skin Including the skin-on cuts when having chicken in your meals is a simple way to add more collagen into your diet. “It’s often overlooked, but chicken skin contains high levels of collagen making it a great addition to your daily menu,” Miss Chantrey added. Oily fish – with skin and bones Sardines, mackerel and salmon are among the excellent options for consuming more collagen. “Fish skin is rich in collagen and many supplements are made using fish bones, so both are great for getting more of this protein,” Miss Chantrey said. Organ meats Liver, heart and other organ meats are nutrient-dense and contain collagen. Miss Chantrey explained: “These might not be high up on your shopping list but organ meats can be easily added into stews, pies and, of course, pates.” Foods to support collagen production Collagen synthesis relies on key nutrients so certain foods can help your body produce more of the protein. Miss Chantrey explained: “Adding more vitamin C-rich foods, such as oranges, lemons and grapefruit, can aid your body’s collagen production. “Leafy greens and garlic should also be staples in your diet alongside egg whites and nuts and seeds. I believe a collagen supplement is also a great way of ensuring you get a concentrated amount of collagen into your body which is particularly important as you get older.”

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