By now, we know that beauty starts from within. The secret, known by many celebrities, estheticians and makeup artists, is in the foods we eat. Fruits and vegetables, in particular, contain a multitude of nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants that not only give the skin a radiant glow, but also help improve its texture and fight the effects of aging. Here are 10 superfoods to add to your diet now, and how they work to beautify your skin:
Greens, like broccoli and kale
These are chock full of vitamin C, which builds the immune system internally and helps to promote cell turnover, which is essential since slow-acting cells will clog the skin and give it a dull appearance. Vitamin C is also known to help the skin resist damage from the sun.
Pumpkin
This autumn vegetable, and other brightly colored produce, is packed with vitamin A, which is actually believed to help fight off signs of aging skin like brown spots and wrinkles. Try adding pumpkin puree to a smoothie.
Green tea
This is another powerhouse menu item, in that green tea has been proven in studies to boost the skin’s defenses and fight off wrinkles and age-related discoloration (like age spots). It also fends off unsightly blotchiness and with tons of anti-inflammatory agents, helps the skin to heal, too.
Spices like ginger and turmeric
These calorie-free natural flavor enhancers contain anti-inflammatory agents that will help your skin repair from damage – like dreaded pimples or sunburns.
Asparagus
You may be surprised to learn that asparagus is a great source of vitamin E, which has been proven to help the skin’s cell membranes repair themselves. It’s great for the hair and fingernails, as well.
Garlic
It may not be your breath’s best friend, but garlic contains selenium, a powerhouse mineral that fights off toxins and free radicals that can dull the skin’s complexion. Plus it defends against inflammation, as well.
Coffee
This morning staple has received a lot of attention lately for its antioxidant benefits for health on many levels, and that includes the skin, too. However, be careful because too much caffeine from coffee can keep you awake and wreak havoc on your much-needed beauty sleep. Be sure to stop drinking coffee and other caffeinated drinks no later than 2 p.m. every day.
Avocados
Yummy, smooth avocados work in nearly any meal of the day (add some to your omelet or smoothie in the morning) and they’re excellent for your skin as well because they include vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, which are both essential for cellular health.
Nuts
Grab a handful of nuts and get lots of omega-3 fatty acids, which help with cell metabolism and can also give dry skin cells a bit of internal hydration and may even increase the skin’s natural barrier, protecting against the environment and the sun.
Poultry
Quality protein is essential to a healthy, glowing complexion because it helps to boost the skin’s natural collagen production. Collagen is the protein-based substance within the skin that gives the complexion a more youthful-looking lift.
