Healthy skin starts from within. Alongside a skin care routine, diet is vital for healthy and supple skin and can even reverse some of the signs of ageing. A diet rich in nutrients protects the skin against environmental aggressors which cause you to prematurely age. It will also support the skin’s underlying structures and processes and contribute to a glowing complexion.
1. Berries
Berries are one of nature’s most potent antioxidants, which prevent free radicals from causing damage.
A cup of wild blueberries has up to 13,427 antioxidants.
2. Green Tea
Utilised in skin care products for its powerful antioxidant properties, green tea prevents free radical damage. The drink is also high in vitamin K, which lightens under-eye dark circles.
What To Avoid!
Inflammatory foods cause you to prematurely age, speeding up wrinkle formation. This includes junk foods, processed foods and refined sugar, which you should try to limit. Sugar causes glycation which harms elastin and collagen molecules. The proteins responsible for keeping your skin supple and elastic.
3. Dark Chocolate
Cocoa hydrates your skin and it’s a strong antioxidant. The high percentage of raw cocoa powder in dark chocolate makes it a great food for the skin, it’s also rich in flavanols, which reduce inflammation and aid circulation.
Image Credit: Sven Scheuermeier
4. Bright Veggies
Carrots, Peppers, Sweet Potatoes & Tomatoes are all great!
Carotenoids, the antioxidants responsible for the bright pigmentation of coloured veggies can decrease the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. They also lower inflammation and boost the immune system!
5. Sunflower seeds
Loaded with vitamin E to fight free radicals and omega 3 which supports the skin’s inflammatory response, sunflower seeds are packed with nutrients to aid a healthy and glowing complexion. They’re also a great protein boost!
6. Kale
Rich in beta-carotene, the potent antioxidant which aids skin repair and renewal. Kale is also rich in vitamin K, which rids tired-looking eyes of bags.
7. Turmeric
If you’re not part of the golden milk craze yet, then you need to be! Turmeric is an incredibly powerful antioxidant. It improves skin elasticity and promotes cell turnover and reduces inflammation.
8. Lean Proteins
Turkey, Chicken, Beans and Lentils are all great.
Getting enough protein is crucial for your skin. It contains amino acids which are vital for the production of collagen and elastin, the underlying structures ensuring your skin stays supple.
Incorporate a few of these into your diet and you’ll feel and look younger for it! Nutrition is the key to ageing well, giving your body the right nutrients it needs helps you to stay your best.