Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, and it promotes healthy joints and skin elasticity. When creating a skincare routine and diet centering around healthy aging, a great way to start is prioritizing collagen-boosting foods. We spoke with aging and skincare experts who agreed that red bell peppers are great for boosting collagen, and there are several reasons why.
How do Red Bell Peppers Boost Collagen?
Red bell peppers are a great source of vitamin A and fiber, both of which you need for healthy a heart and digestion. They also contain vitamin C, a crucial vitamin for skincare and anti-aging. “If you’re looking for an easy everyday snack with anti-aging properties, try red bell peppers,” says Dr. Chia Tan, skincare specialist, trained doctor and founder of Harley Street Medical Doctors. “Red peppers are rich in vitamin C, which stimulates the production of collagen and maintains the collagen you already have,” he adds. As vitamin C (known as ascorbic acid) can’t be produced by the body, Tan notes it’s essential to make sure there’s “lots of it” in your diet.
The importance of vitamin C for collagen and obtaining it from red peppers is also stressed by Dr. Cindy Jones, PhD, biochemist and cosmetic formulator at Colorado Aromatics. “The best food for boosting collagen is sweet red pepper. It is one of the foods highest in vitamin C content,” says Jones. “The biochemical pathway that makes collagen is dependent on vitamin C,” she adds. “It is the most important vitamin for boosting collagen.”
Bell peppers in general have many anti-aging benefits, which Caleb Backe, health and wellness expert for Maple Holistics explains. “Green and yellow peppers also contain loads of vitamin C,” says Backe, but still recommends red pepper overall. “These vitamin-packed veggies are so good at combating aging and increasing collagen production as they also contain capsaicin,” says Backe, referring to the anti-inflammatory compound that also acts as an antioxidant and can help prevent bacterial infections.
How Can Red Bell Peppers Be Prepared and Consumed?
More good news about red bell peppers is that they are very versatile if you're meal planning. They can be eaten alone or inserted into your favorite dishes. "Red peppers are a great option because they’re inexpensive, readily available and easy to eat on their own or within your favorite meals," says Tan.
Backe agrees, giving some ideas for red pepper-based meals. You might find that you can add them to much of what you already eat daily. "This delicious and versatile vegetable is super easy to consume in that you can eat it raw, toss it into a salad, roast it with some grains, or really eat in any form that you desire," says Backe.
He adds that you can also eat red peppers with hummus or even roast and stuff them with rice. The possibilities are endless, and red peppers—whether eaten daily or not— are recommended by many skincare experts for a source of vitamin C and boost of collagen.
