Eat your way to fabulous glowing skin!
Most experts agree that healthy, glowing, youthful skin is not about the cosmetics and lotions you put on your skin. Some are of the view that all skin conditions from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body’s internal needs, including its nutritional needs.
We have all heard the experts tell us that a balanced diet is the best for your overall health and complexion, but there are some foods which have specific properties that help your skin look vibrant and glowing.
1. Free Radicals and Anti-oxidants
Free radicals (from sun exposure and pollution etc)are harmful to our bodies and cannot be avoided.
The effects of free radicals are long term health issues and the expedition of the aging process in our bodies.
Antioxidants help prevent free radicals from harming healthy tissue in our bodies and therefore they help us look younger by aiding the cell renewal process.
Foods with high antioxidant content are berries, plums and broccoli.
2. Fatty acids
Fatty acids are acids produced when “good fats” are broken down. These fatty acids help move oxygen around the bloodstream, assist with cell membrane development, prevent early aging and promote weight loss.
Fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, are found in oils and other fats in different foods. Fish, walnuts and some oils such as Flax Seed oil are great sources of Omega 3.
3. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for healthy cell reproduction and your eyesight. Because skin cells are constantly replacing themselves, Vitamin A is an integral part of your nutrition if you want glowing skin.
Great sources of Vitamin A are fresh fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products including yoghurt and creamy cheeses.
4. Minerals
Selenium, Copper and Zinc are key minerals for great skin.
Research has found that Selenium could prevent skin cancer and it definitely helps protect skin from sun damage and could also be effective to reduce sunburn.
The best dietary sources of selenium include whole-grain cereals, seafood, garlic, and eggs.
Copper, together with vitamin C and the mineral zinc, helps to develop elastin, the fibers that support the skin structure from underneath. Elastin is key to maintaining a youthful appearance and improves the appearance of fine lines and skin damage. Great sources of Copper are oysters, crab meat, liver, peanut butter and cocoa powder.
Zinc is important if you have acne. Zinc helps to clear skin by reducing oil production and clearing acne lesions. Good food sources of zinc include oysters, lean meat, and poultry.
5. Water
Water is essential for our body to function properly so you can look and feel your best. It helps eliminate toxins and provides hydrated, supple skin. Drinking water helps to give your skin the moisture it needs to maintain elasticity and to prevent dryness.
Some mineral waters contain some of the minerals stated above. Some health professionals recommend drinking between 1.5 litres to 2 litres a day.
As with most things in life, everything is best taken in moderation. For best personal results you should always consult a medical professional.
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