New Delhi: Collagen is very important for making our skin beautiful and healthy. It is a type of protein, which is the major building block of the skin and helps in maintaining skin structure, strength and elasticity. Collagen present in the middle layer of the skin, the dermis, makes up 70-80% of the skin tissue. This is the reason why collagen helps in maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the signs of skin aging.

Usually the body naturally produces collagen , but as age increases, its production in the body starts decreasing. In such a situation, when the level of collagen in the body decreases, wrinkles start appearing on the skin and the skin starts looking lifeless. In such a situation, you can increase the amount of decreasing collagen in your body with the help of some foods.

Nuts and Seeds

You can also include nuts and seeds in your diet to naturally increase collagen production in the body. Hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, soy, canola, sunflower seeds and cashews help fight free radicals and promote collagen production.

Tomato

Rich in many nutrients, tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C and help boost collagen production. It protects the skin from free radicals and promotes collagen production.

Avocado

Avocado, which is rich in antioxidants and vitamin-E, benefits our health in many ways. Along with health, it is also very beneficial for the skin. Including it in the diet helps in preventing the breakdown of collagen.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. It also increases the body's ability to absorb collagen.