Diet For a Healthy Skin

Beauty is only skin deep, so the saying goes. But our current knowledge of diet, and how it affects not only overall health but skin care, tells us otherwise. Aside from protection from too much sun, one’s diet is the most important factor in how healthy, supple, and elastic your skin is going to be. In this post, we’re going to examine some of the most essential components of a diet mindful of skin care health.

Fat

You might think that I’m going to start out by telling you something you already know — “Don’t eat too much fat!”

Well, sure. A diet low in animal fat reduces the production of free radicals that can prematurely age skin. But the consumption of a healthy amount of certain types of fat is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy complexion. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in such foods as fish, eggs, and certain oils, help keep skin-cell membranes firm and elastic. Moreover, fat helps your body absorb antioxidants and fat-soluble vitamins. Try to eat unsaturated fats, found in oils and nuts, as opposed to animal fat.

Fruits and Vegetables

Need another reason to eat your veggies? It’s great for your skin. Antioxidants in all types of produce, from tomatoes to leafy greens, neutralize free radicals that lead to wrinkles, spots and telltale aging signs on your skin and block the chemical reactions that lead to sun damage. As for fruit: oranges and lemons offer protection from sun-induced free radical damage through the power of vitamin C, an antioxidant and immune booster. The dark pigment in blueberries results from their high carotenoid content. Carotenoids, which include beta-carotene, possess antioxidant qualities. Beta-carotene boosts skin health through its ability to convert to an active form of vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A stimulates the renewal of skin cells for a softer, smoother, more glowing appearance.

They all do something right, and deep down, you know it.

Low-Carb Diet

Not just an Atkins diet, eating less carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, and refined sugar can lower cortisol and minimize breakouts. In its stead, try to eat whole grains, which contain antioxidants (seeing a pattern here?)

Water

I can’t stress this one enough. Drink lots of water! We all know the drill — 8 ounces, 8 times a day. Skin cells, like all cells, are mostly water and need to be replenished to function properly. If you aren’t hydrating, your skin will get dry and flaky, and will become more prone to wrinkles.

Alcohol and Cigarettes

This is just a quick reminder of something else you ought to know. Too much alcohol and smoking at all can have drastic effects on your skin. Take it easy on the wine, and avoid cigarettes altogether! Your skin and your other organs will thank you.