There are all kinds of myths pertaining to
food and skin care. For example, we've all heard the one about how eating junk food can cause
breakouts. In truth, touching greasy foods and then touching your face can definitely lead to clogged
pores. But simply ingesting a piece of pizza has not been shown to have any direct effect on the state of your skin (unless you happen to be allergic to pizza). That said, you are what you eat to a certain extent, and your overall diet can definitely play a role in pallor, puffiness, and other skin-related conditions. So here are just a few good food choices that could have a major impact on the appearance of your skin.
- Mushrooms.
The entire spectrum of B vitamins is beneficial to your skin, but rather than loading up on high-fat items like avocados (you'd need four to get your daily dose of niacin, or B3), think about adding some mushrooms to your salad or pizza as a way to consume equally beneficial B2 (also known as riboflavin). It has the ability to reduce redness (especially pertinent for those who suffer from rosacea) and maintain and repair tissue. Got a sunburn? Load up on mushrooms.
- Cottage cheese.
This may seem like a strange one. Although we are all aware of the benefits of adding calcium to a diet for stronger bones and teeth, you may be uncertain about the potential advantage to your skin. In fact, it works with the vitamin E found in other foods (such as sunflower seeds and almonds) to boost antioxidant properties, fighting free-radicals that can lead to all types of afflictions (from something as common and annoying as dandruff to much more serious conditions like cancer). As a bonus, pairing this food with fruits or veggies makes for a low-calorie snack that will keep you feeling full much longer than the processed foods most people reach for to satisfy mid-afternoon cravings (Lose weight AND get great skin? I'm in!).
- Blueberries.
Antioxidants are all the rage these days, and blueberries pack a wallop. Although acai berries have more, they can be difficult to find and often, they are dehydrated or juiced, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Also, this bitter berry is definitely an acquired taste. Stick to delicious blueberries and you'll get all the age-fighting antioxidants you need to keep your skin looking gorgeous, with a taste you can tolerate.
- Oysters.
One of the major causes of skin problems is the very sebum that keeps your skin healthy (by protecting it from loss of hydration as well as bacteria). However, those who suffer from acne are probably producing too much. Here your favorite seafood can help. Oysters are high in zinc, a mineral that not only boosts immune function, but also helps to stem the over-production of sebum (potentially reducing acne). In addition, it aids in the generation of elastin, a protein that helps your skin bounce back after stretching (to avoid sagging). Need I mention it's also an aphrodisiac?
- Water! This is the number one dietary additive for anyone who wants to engineer improved skin tone. H2O is essential to your body not only for digestive purposes, but also for flushing toxins from your system, and the skin is included in that equation. You don't exactly have to go on a cleanse diet and consume only liquids, but getting your 8 glasses of water a day will definitely show improvement in skin tone and overall health.
(Guest Post by Carol Montrose)
A sensible, well balanced diet is all you need.
ReplyDeleteEat plenty of fruits and veggies, Salmon, Lots of water, and avocados
ReplyDeletedrinking tons of water is good for your skin and so is washing your pillow cases often so you dont have bacteria on them. they say eating dark coloured veggies and brightly coloured fruit is the best not only for your skin but for your overall health. sun is also good for your skin, obviously not alot but a bit is healthy.
ReplyDelete