Samantha Akkineni, one of the biggest names of the South Indian film industry, has also established herself as a wellness junkie. The Majili actress routinely shares her intensive workouts and diet plans on her social media for her fans and followers. And this time, she has given us a glimpse into her skincare regime.
Image credit: Instagram/SamanthaAkkineni
When we say skincare, one might typically assume it will be application-based products and makeup recommendations. But just like every skincare expert understands, healthy dietary ingredients can effectively contribute to good skin and hair and that’s exactly what Samantha has suggested too! Her secret ingredient? Collagen!
Image credit: Instagram/SamanthaAkkineni
Samantha’s skincare secret: collagen
Samantha recently took to her Instagram to share a picture of her starting the day with a healthy drink. She wrote, “My skin loves collagen…I’ve noticed firmness, closed pores…overall skin health….” She also added that it’s the first thing she drinks in the morning on an empty stomach. Are you taking notes?
Image credit: Instagram/SamanthaAkkineni
A while ago, the 33-year-old starlet also revealed to us her healthy smoothie recipe made of lettuce, spinach and celery that she drinks in the morning. The antioxidant-laden green smoothie not only helps flush out toxins from the body, it promotes glowing skin, reduces inflammation and stress, and also helps accelerate metabolism.
Image credit: Times Of India
What is collagen
Collagen is one of the most abundantly found proteins in the human body and is the main structural protein in the extracellular matrix in connective tissues such as skin, bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. But as we age, our bodies produce less and lower quality collagen which can be visible in our skin health, bones, and muscles.
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The benefits of collagen for our skin
Collagen not only strengthens the skin, it helps maintain our skin’s natural suppleness, elasticity, and hydration. It helps repair damaged skin and also slows down its aging by reducing wrinkles and dullness. Collagen also promotes overall relief from joint and muscle pain, strengthens our bones and reduces the risk of heart-related conditions.
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How to add collagen to our diet
Consumption of higher levels of vitamin-c (citrus fruits, bell peppers, etc.), proline (meat, diary, eggs, etc.), glycine (pork skin, chicken skin, and gelatin), and copper (sesame seeds, cocoa powder, and lentils) can help accelerate the production of protein in our body. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether consuming collagen-rich foods directly translates into an increase in the levels of this protein in our body. In which case, collagen supplements available in the market can help us achieve the same.
We suggest you consult a dietitian who can support you with the best collagen boosters and supplements that cater to your body’s needs.
Lead, social, thumbnail, and vertical images credit: Instagram/SamanthaAkkineni
