So you’ve hopped aboard the collagen train — great choice. Whether you're scooping it into your morning smoothie, stirring it into your coffee, or sneaking it into soups, collagen is a simple way to support skin health, joints, digestion, and that glow we’re all chasing - inside and out.
But here's the kicker: collagen works even better when paired with the right nutrients. In fact, it thrives when teamed up with other nutrient-rich ingredients. And the best part? You’ve probably already got a few of them lurking in your pantry or fridge.
Here are five surprising ingredients that pair beautifully with collagen — for better absorption, better results, and yes, even better taste.
1.Vitamin C-Rich Fruits
When it comes to vitamin C and collagen absorption, vitamin C is fundamental for collagen synthesis to help build and stabilise collagen fibres. Without it, your collagen powder is working overtime with half the tools. The good news? There are loads of delicious foods high in vitamin C that also boost collagen naturally, and you’re probably already eating a few.
How to pair them:
- Add a dash of Kakadu Plum powder to your morning collagen smoothie
- Squeeze some lemon or lime juice into your collagen water
- Blend fresh strawberries, kiwi or orange segments into your brekkie bowl
Tip: Kakadu Plum is a native superfruit that contains one of the highest natural sources of vitamin C on the planet.
2. Zinc-Packed Seeds
Zinc plays a vital role in tissue repair and collagen synthesis. If you’re on the hunt for natural collagen boosters, pumpkin seeds are a standout - they’re one of the best plant-based foods that help collagen do its job. Plus, they bring crunch. And let’s be honest, everything's better with a bit of crunch.
Try it with:
- A collagen-boosted trail mix with pepitas
- Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on a collagen smoothie bowl
- Blend them into a creamy seed butter
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera is the quiet hero of the natural beauty world. Known for its hydrating and soothing properties, it’s a great choice when it comes to natural skin supplements. Rich in plant polysaccharides, aloe vera may support your body’s natural collagen production and boost overall skin health.
Try it with:
- Aloe vera juice mixed with a scoop of marine collagen
- Add aloe to your morning tonic or mocktail
- Mix with citrus and mint for a skin-loving refresher
4. Turmeric
Thanks to curcumin, turmeric helps reduce inflammation — one of the main culprits behind collagen breakdown. The powerful combo of turmeric and collagen offers a holistic approach to inflammation support, making it a favourite among those looking for natural joint support supplements. Together? They’re a dream team for joints, skin, and gut health — and they taste great in a golden latte, too.
Try it with:
- Collagen golden milk (turmeric, cinnamon, plant milk)
- Add a pinch to collagen soups or bone broths
- Mix into overnight oats with collagen and coconut milk
5. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in catechins, potent antioxidants that may help protect your existing collagen from oxidative stress. It’s gentle, nourishing, and a perfect match for a scoop of collagen.
Try it with:
- Mix collagen into an iced matcha latte
- Add matcha to collagen energy balls or smoothies
- Use brewed green tea as the base for a collagen hydration drink
COLLAGEN IS A TEAM PLAYER
While collagen works its magic solo, it thrives when combined with the right nutritional sidekicks. These five ingredients not only help your body absorb and produce collagen more efficiently, they also make your daily collagen ritual a bit more exciting (and flavourful).
Pro Tip:
Look for natural, organic, and minimally processed versions of these ingredients.
