Recent studies published in various medical journals discuss how, as far as the skin is concerned, we certainly are what we eat. In fact the appearance of our skin is affected as much by what we put in our mouth as what we slather on our skin. Here are some foods that have can contribute to ageless skin.
• Avocado - Avocados are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed. The fruit is also full of antioxidant vitamins A and E, fortifying B-complex vitamins,lecithin (which protects and strengthens cell walls) and potassium to support new cell growth. The phytosterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, zinc and folate fight free radicals and repair, soothe and renew skin cells.
• Blueberries - These wonderful purple berries are rich in phytonutrients called anthocynanins which have been shown to improve the integrity of collagen in skin and inhibit sun damage.
• Chocolate - Chocolate offers a wealth of antioxidant catechins (like those found in green tea) which improve hydration, skin density and circulation of blood to skin tissues. Dark chocolate (65% or higher cocoa content) is also a source of procyanidins, which counter skin damage and help protect it while also stimulating cellular growth and renewal.
• Cruciferous Vegetable - The crucifer family, including cabbage, broccoli, kale, Swiss chard and radishes, is loaded with phytonutrients which help the body’s detoxification enzymes combat and repair damage to skin. These mineral rich veggies have carotenoid antioxidants, which help reduce carcinogens and oxidative stress on skin, reduce inflammation, and bolster immune response.
• Dark Leafy Greens - Dark leafy vegetables, such as collard greens, kale, parsley, spinach and Swiss chard, are also packed with carotenoid antioxidants. They also have vitamins A and C, which the body needs to produce and regulate the sebum for healthy skin.
• Green Tea – Of all teas, green tea has the most antioxidant polyphenols, including a specific catechin, believed beautify the skin.
• Micro- and Macro-Algae - Micro-algae such as blue-green algae, chlorella and spirulina are among the most concentrated sources vitamins and minerals for skin. Micro-algae are available in capsules or tablets, as well as in powder form that you can use to pump up the nutrition in your smoothies.
• Raw Honey – Raw honey is filled with vitamins and minerals which support and repair the skin. In addition, raw honey's flower nectar and enzymes are laden with beautifying nutrients, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and healing compounds.
• Red Wine - Red wine can add skin repair to its many benefits. Studies published show that the resveratrol in red wine appears to protect the skin against the sun's ultraviolet radiation. Drink Cabernet Sauvignon to get some of the highest concentration of age-defying antioxidants.
• Avocado - Avocados are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy, flexible, strong cell membranes to ensure that nutrients can enter cells and waste can be removed. The fruit is also full of antioxidant vitamins A and E, fortifying B-complex vitamins,lecithin (which protects and strengthens cell walls) and potassium to support new cell growth. The phytosterols, carotenoids, flavonoids, zinc and folate fight free radicals and repair, soothe and renew skin cells.
• Blueberries - These wonderful purple berries are rich in phytonutrients called anthocynanins which have been shown to improve the integrity of collagen in skin and inhibit sun damage.
• Chocolate - Chocolate offers a wealth of antioxidant catechins (like those found in green tea) which improve hydration, skin density and circulation of blood to skin tissues. Dark chocolate (65% or higher cocoa content) is also a source of procyanidins, which counter skin damage and help protect it while also stimulating cellular growth and renewal.
• Cruciferous Vegetable - The crucifer family, including cabbage, broccoli, kale, Swiss chard and radishes, is loaded with phytonutrients which help the body’s detoxification enzymes combat and repair damage to skin. These mineral rich veggies have carotenoid antioxidants, which help reduce carcinogens and oxidative stress on skin, reduce inflammation, and bolster immune response.
• Dark Leafy Greens - Dark leafy vegetables, such as collard greens, kale, parsley, spinach and Swiss chard, are also packed with carotenoid antioxidants. They also have vitamins A and C, which the body needs to produce and regulate the sebum for healthy skin.
• Green Tea – Of all teas, green tea has the most antioxidant polyphenols, including a specific catechin, believed beautify the skin.
• Micro- and Macro-Algae - Micro-algae such as blue-green algae, chlorella and spirulina are among the most concentrated sources vitamins and minerals for skin. Micro-algae are available in capsules or tablets, as well as in powder form that you can use to pump up the nutrition in your smoothies.
• Raw Honey – Raw honey is filled with vitamins and minerals which support and repair the skin. In addition, raw honey's flower nectar and enzymes are laden with beautifying nutrients, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and healing compounds.
• Red Wine - Red wine can add skin repair to its many benefits. Studies published show that the resveratrol in red wine appears to protect the skin against the sun's ultraviolet radiation. Drink Cabernet Sauvignon to get some of the highest concentration of age-defying antioxidants.
