Several factors impact the health and appearance of your skin. Although you do much about the weather, environmental contaminants, hormonal changes, and genetic conditions, many skin problems result from things within your control. Take your diet, for instance. What you eat affects more than your waistline. It also impacts your skin. If the objective is to achieve glowing, youthful, attractive skin, you must prioritize nutrition.
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Rethink What You Eat
The modern-day diet consists of processed, sugary, salty, and fatty foods and beverages. While these meal options are often more affordable, practical, and appealing than healthier choices, they deprive your skin of essential nutrients to sustain its appearance. Incorporating skin-friendly foods into your diet can help repair and enhance your looks. Continue reading for suggestions.
Salmon
Seafood lovers, prepare to rejoice, as salmon is the first food for the skin to add to your diet. This superfood contains nutrients, fatty acids, and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, eliminate irritants, restore moisture, and strengthen your skin’s barrier. Consuming at least 8 ounces of salmon per week can help you achieve desired results.
Avocado
Only some people are fans of seafood or meat. Fortunately, you can get the same skin-boosting results from avocados. It’s a nutrient-rich fruit that made its way to the US in the mid-1800s and increased in popularity over time. When consumed regularly, avocado penetrates skin cells providing a boost of vitamins A, D, and E, healthy fats, and phytonutrients that give you that flawless glow.
Watermelon
Giving up sugary foods doesn’t mean you enjoy sweets. It simply means you need to consume foods that contain natural sugars and nutrients, like fresh fruit. While you have plenty of options that taste delicious and satisfy your cravings, watermelon is one of the most skin-friendly choices.
Watermelon contains less sugar, which reduces the likelihood of a chemical reaction (glycation) that compromises collagen production and causes premature aging. It also has a high water content, which is essential for locking in moisture and staying hydrated.
Kale
Regardless of your health and wellness goals, kale is an essential food to add to your diet. Classified as a superfood, this dark leafy green vegetable has all the ingredients to enhance your well-being and appearance. Kale contains vitamins A, B, C, and K and antioxidants that work together to hydrate your skin, reduce signs of aging, and enhance your looks.
There’s no denying that kale is an acquired taste. If you’re not a fan of raw kale, you can cook it and include it in your favorite recipes or blend it into a smoothie for easier consumption.
Bell Peppers
You’d be surprised how a little spice can improve your skin’s health and appearance. Red, green, orange, and yellow peppers contain carotenoids, potent antioxidants that reduce sun sensitivity and aging. Consuming bell peppers regularly can also improve collagen production and even your tone. You can chop them up and add them to your soups, salads, stir-fries, and other dishes or eat them raw for healthier-looking skin.
Dark Chocolate
What’s the best way to end the list of skin-friendly foods? Add a little dark chocolate. Although you should consume everything in moderation, you’ll be pleasantly surprised how this sweet treat can enhance your looks. Dark chocolate contains flavanols that improve circulation, shield against sun damage, and enhances skin density and hydration.
The best part is you can eat between one and two ounces of dark chocolate daily! You can nibble on a piece of your favorite chocolate bar or add it to your oatmeal, yogurt, baked goods, or culinary dishes for a sweet and savory taste you’ll love.
There’s no denying that beauty and skincare treatments can work wonders in repairing and improving the health of your skin. However, their effectiveness and long-term results require you to make lifestyle changes like being mindful of what you eat. Though the most appealing and delicious-tasting foods are affordable and convenient, their impact can prove detrimental to your appearance. If you want better-looking skin, start incorporating the foods listed above and experience a difference that radiates from the inside out.