When considering foods to incorporate into our diet in order to better our insides we often forget the largest organ resides on the outside. What you eat can make a big impact on your skin. Consuming the right foods provides the right nutrients to keep skin cells healthy, strong and glowing.
So, what foods should you be eating for fabulously flawless skin?
- Berries
Berries, especially dark coloured ones like blueberries are packed full of free radical fighting antioxidants and can help with red, blotchy skin conditions.
- Sweet Potatoes, Pumpkins and Carrots
Orange foods get their colour because they contain high concentrations of bet-carotene, an antioxidant the body converts to vitamin A in order to assist with restoring damaged skin cells preventing premature signs of aging like wrinkles.
- Almonds
Almonds are rich in biotin which your body requires to create new skin, hair and nails. Biotin is also an important form of vitamin B which, when deficient can cause skin conditions like rashes and irritation.
- Chia and Flax Seeds
These tiny seeds are packed with Omega-3 essential fatty acids—a single serving contains more of this healthy fat than a serving of salmon. Omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFA’s) strengthen and repair the cell membrane and protect the skin from harmful toxins.
- Avocado
Like Chia and Flax Seeds, Avocado also contains high amounts of EFA’s as well as vitamin E. A diet rich in vitamin E can assist in protecting skin from fine lines and wrinkles as well as other forms of sun damage.
- Collard Greens
Collard greens contain even more antioxidants than kale and are packed full of essential vitamins perfect for combating free radical damage and reducing and repairing wrinkles.
- Celery and Celery Juice
Celery contains compounds called coumarins that help prevent free radicals from damaging cells and aging the skin. Celery helps to purify the bloodstream and clear up skin problems and is an excellent hydrator which is needed for supple skin.
- Ginger
Most issues that are related to the skin may be connected to some form of inflammation in the body. Inflammation internally can also manifest itself on the skin externally as acne, skin rashes, or hives. Ginger helps reduce inflammation, improves liver function, and aids in keeping skin healthy and vibrant.
- Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent antioxidant that is shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect. Turmeric cleanses the blood, increases circulation, and heals tissue. Clean blood equals clean skin.
- Cucumber
Cucumbers contain vitamin C, silica, potassium, and magnesium which can help improve the complexion and health of your skin while its high-water content is naturally hydrating to keep skin radiant and supple.
BONUS TIP:
Not a food, but equally important for skin health is drinking plenty of water. (Ideally filtered.) Water helps your skin stay hydrated, of course, but it also helps your cells utilise nutrients, aids detoxification, and keeps bowels moving. Adequate hydration is also essential for proper blood flow, which helps keep skin glowing and minimises congestion. And if that’s not enough, without enough water skin can become tired, dry, and more prone to fine lines and wrinkles.