Collagen is a multipurpose protein. It works to heal bruises and broken bones, and also upholds a healthy digestive tract. But could collagen also hold the secret to anti-aging?

A benefit of collagen is found in its skin-smoothing properties. Collagen helps to maintain elasticity in the skin. As people age, collagen production decreases, which can lead to more wrinkles.

You can help slow this process and increase collagen synthesis in your body through your diet. Eating more bone broth, fish and even dairy products and eggs can help.

Vitamins also play a vital role in synthesizing collagen. You can find vitamin C in foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli and potatoes. Zinc is important as well. Meat, shellfish, bread and cereals all are rich in zinc.

Make sure you include manganese in your diet. You can you find it in raw nuts, green vegetables, cereals and bread. Copper is another micronutrient that facilitates collagen synthesis. Nuts, shellfish and organ meats all contain copper.

Collagen supplements also are available in many forms, such as gelatin, pills and powders. If you’re somewhat adventurous, try fish skin. It has marine collagen in it.

A study in the Journal of Medical Nutrition and Nutraceuticals found that ingesting oral hydrolyzed collagen supplements, which is collagen that has been chemically altered to be more digestible, can help reduce wrinkles and increase skin elasticity.

If you’re looking for an effective skin care routine, just head to your local grocery store. Eating a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables and assorted proteins can do more than help your heart, it can help give your skin a shiny, wrinkle-free glow!