Any dermatologist will tell you that the keys to beautiful skin are plenty of sleep, exercise, healthy foods and limited intake of caffeine, alcohol and junk food. However, if you are like most women and are living a fast-paced, dare we say hectic, kind of life, following all or even any of these tips is sometimes just not happening. Working, playing, and just living gets in the way of the good habits your skin needs. So what’s a girl to do? Luckily, there are many good food choices out there that can help improve your skin, whether you are battling acne, redness, aging, or just plain tired skin. For a few tips on a good diet for healthy skin, see below.
Acne
Acne after high school is still as unattractive as it was back then. A dermatologist can prescribe creams to help you with this skin issue, but paying attention to your diet can, too. Eating more legumes in your diet, such as kidney beans, chickpeas, and others, have been shown to reduce acne breakouts. Ditto for switching from refined carbohydrates such as white bread and pasta to their whole grain counterparts in your diet. And try getting a little more protein in your diet, as a link between higher protein diets and less acne has also been found. Foods with Omega 3-fatty acids such as nuts and fish added to your diet can help fight the inflammation in your body that can lead to acne flare-ups. And remember what your mom told you about avoiding chocolate and French fries in your diet “ hey, it can’t hurt.
Aging skin
No matter how young you are, it’s never too soon to start worrying about aging skin. Sooner or later all those bad habits – not using sunscreen, not wearing sunglasses, let’s not even discuss smoking, you naughty girl “ catch up to you. But there are some good foods you can add to your diet that can help combat aging skin. Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits in your diet provide you with Vitamin C, which is important in the formation of collagen. Collagen is what keeps your skin smooth and beautiful. Stress can deplete your body’s Vitamin C, so when feeling especially stressed have a nice glass of orange juice. Everyone knows fruits and vegetables are good for your health, but did you know eating the peels of your veggies also helps out your face? Silica, which is found in plant based foods, usually in the peels, helps keep the elasticity in your skin.
Beautiful skin
For lovely skin, cut back on refined carbs in your diet. The fiber in whole grains helps detoxify your body and this in turn makes your skin healthier. Omega 3 fatty acids, found in fish such as salmon or sardines, are a good addition to your diet. These foods have been shown to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Add foods rich in Vitamin A, such as egg yolks, nonfat milk, and oysters, to your diet for better healing whenever your skin does get damaged. And of course, water. You know you should be drinking lots and lots of water, but here’s another reminder. Water helps to carry all those lovely nutrients you are eating to your skin cells. So drink up!
