Shake Recipe: Red, White and Blue Anti-Aging Smoothie

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body and it helps give shape, strength, and integrity of many tissues, including your skin, muscles, bones, tendons, brain, and heart.

Berries contain an antioxidant called ellagic acid, which has been shown to prevent collagen breakdown from UV damage. In addition to having protective effects against the signs of aging, berries may also help produce collagen. Like citrus fruits, berries are rich in vitamin C, which helps link specific amino acids together for collagen formation.

While it may seem like a good idea to take a collagen supplement for anti-aging benefits, the nutrients from supplements aren’t always bioavailable, meaning they’re not easily absorbed or utilized by the body for their intended purpose. It is best to consume whole, natural foods that have anti-aging properties, such as berries.