It’s been said we are what we eat, and that sentiment
definitely holds true when it comes to our skin. It’s our body’s biggest organ, and it
deserves all the nutritional TLC we can give it. So take a look at what you’ve
been feeding yourself, and therefore feeding your skin.
One the most important components of skin health is
vitamin A, and probably one of the best sources of it is low-fat dairy
products. It could be said the health of our skin depends on vitamin A. Low-fat
yogurt is not only high in vitamin A, but also acidophilus, the
"live" bacteria that is good for intestinal health. Turns out, it may
also have an impact on the skin, since it aids in digestion. Other good sources of vitamin A include cod liver oil,
sweet potatoes, carrots, leafy vegetables, and fortified breakfast cereals.
It’s important to also make sure you’re eating foods rich
in antioxidants, such as blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and
plums. The benefits of these foods for healthy skin are
plentiful. The antioxidants and other phytochemicals in these fruits can
protect the skin cells, so there is less chance for damage. This in turn guards against premature aging,
and keeps skin looking younger longer. Other
fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants include artichokes, black,
red, and pinto beans, prunes, and pecans.
Essential
fatty acids (EFAs) are essential to your skin. Include salmon, walnuts, canola oil,
and flax seed. EFAs keep cell membranes healthy, and allow
nutrients to pass through.
We also need
healthy oils, which contain more than
essential fatty acids. Eating good-quality oils helps keep skin lubricated and
keeps it looking and feeling healthier overall.
Look for oils that are cold pressed, such as olive or extra virgin
oil. We only need about two tablespoons
a day of healthy oils, so use wisely.
Selenium plays an important role in the health of skin
cells. Turn to foods like Whole-wheat bread, muffins, and cereals;
turkey, tuna and brazil nuts for this important nutrient. Recent studies show that if selenium levels
are high, even skin damaged by the sun may only suffer minimal, if any, damage.
Choosing the whole grain versions of complex
carbohydrates can have a significant effect on insulin levels. Processed and
refined sugars can cause inflammation that may ultimately be linked to skin
break outs.
Green tea
has anti-inflammatory properties, and it protects the membrane of the cell. It
may even help prevent or reduce skin cancer risks.
Water plays
such an important role in your overall health, and it has a profound effect on
your skin’s health as well. Well-hydrated skin is healthy and
young-looking. It also helps move the
toxins out of your system so they have less chance to do damage.
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