Onions may be a surprising secret weapon against aging, particularly for those over 30, due to their high vitamin C and sulfur content.
Sulfur, responsible for the onion’s strong smell, can potentially boost collagen production, a protein vital for skin elasticity that declines with age. Onions, as a source of vitamin C, further aid in collagen building and maintenance.
While experts highlight copper, manganese, and zinc in foods like pumpkin and broccoli as collagen boosters, they caution against relying solely on collagen-based cosmetic products. Standard collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin’s surface effectively, offering minimal hydration at best.
Pro-collagen products or those containing peptides that stimulate collagen production are more effective topical treatments.
However, experts primarily recommend collagen supplements for a more impactful approach, as they are absorbed into the bloodstream, combat aging from within, and may also benefit nail health and potentially muscle mass.