Let’s face it, after weeks of stress, late nights and overindulgence, once the New Year arrives most people focus on improving their appearance, overall wellbeing and of course their weight. Not only is your skin one of the first places where improper nutrition and stress is noticeable, but if your skin is not soft and supple it wont adjust to swings in weight often associated with over eating then dieting. Dry unhealthy skin is like weathered elastic, you can stretch it a bit but it wont snap back, and it often shows “cracks” when stretched. So while you are eating healthier to lose that holiday weight, be sure to incorporate some of the following foods into your meal plan, for beautiful positive effects on your skin.
Water And plenty of it! Water is essential for so many processes in the body, including toxin removal and fighting off oxidative (damaging) agents. Dry skin loses elasticity and glow. Consuming 8 glasses (8 ounce each) of water daily is suggested for the healthiest looking skin.
Avocado Packed with Vitamins C and E, two strong antioxidants, that also help repair damaged skin cells. Avocados also contain lutein and xeazanthan, which recent studies are finding, can improve skin tone. The healthy fats in avocados also help moisturize your skin from the inside out.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables Kale, collard greens and spinach to name a few, contain a rich variety of antioxidants. Studies show those who eat at least 2 servings of leafy greens per week have a lower incident of skin cancer.
Yogurt The probiotics in yogurt can help fight skin inflammation improving acne, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Cinnamon Improves circulation and blood flow to your skin, delivering oxygen and nutrients to “feed” your skin.
Tomatoes Contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has anti aging properties.
Sweet Potatoes and Carrots High in Vitamin A these foods can reduce skin oil and fight acne.
Berries Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are extremely high in Vitamin C, which helps with collagen production, hydration and may even protect against UV damage. Preventing premature aging. The lower sugar content versus other fruits is also beneficial for skin because sugar can speed up the aging process.
Green Tea The polyphenols in green tea, can reduce how much oil your body produces, helping to treat acne. While the flavonoids can help with skin repair and reduce fine lines.
Walnuts The zinc in walnuts helps maintain skins protective barrier and heal wounds. While essential fatty acids, can reduce inflammation, moisturize and smooth the skin
Dark Chocolate The flavonoids contained in dark chocolate, help prevent skin discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles caused by UV radiation. Choose chocolate with 70% or more cocoa.
Consume at least one of the above foods daily or combine a few to make things more interesting. Berries with vanilla yogurt and shaved dark chocolate make a tasty treat. Happy Glowing!
