You are not alone if you want to know ways to enhance the appearance of your skin. Having a youthful glow to your skin can make you feel more confident. Here are my top foods to help optimise the health of your skin:
Berries
Berries contain a lot of water which hydrate your skin. Berries are also rich in antioxidants which reduces the inflammation. Vitamin C present in berries is an essential part in creating collagen, promoting youthful skin and new skin tissue growth.
Dark Chocolate
Yes you read this correctly chocolate is a recommended food to help optimise the health of your skin. Aim for at least 70% coco solids as it is the cocoa which contains the antioxidants and other important nutrients to help blood flow like magnesium and iron.
Healthy Fats
Fat is not the enemy and healthy fats found in foods like nuts, extra virgin olive oil, avocado, seafood, and seeds help reduce inflammation. On top of this the fibre in avocado and nuts help your body to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar levels results in healthier looking skin.
The Green Leafy Vegetables
Leafy greens like spinach and kale help boost the appearance of your skin and provide a sun kissed glow thanks to the vitamin A these vegetables provide. Vitamin A is also vital to help reduce damage to your skin from the sun and provides a source of hydration to your skin cells.
Watermelon
A delicious summer fruit made up of 92% water also helps keep your skin hydrated and looking healthy due to the phytochemical called lycopene. Lycopene helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite over time and can help improve your circulation.
Promoters of Cellulite
Foods which are ultra-processed have high amounts of added sugar and salt and minimal fibre and healthy fats are the ‘feeders’ of cellulite. These foods send your blood sugars into a rollercoaster ride or give your body too much salt. Excess salt causes your body to store more fluid which can cause havoc to your skin health. These include foods like canned or instant soups and noodles, soft drinks, sauces and refined grains like white bread and cereals.
Take home message: For your healthiest skin aim for your diet which is largely based on whole foods rather than ultra-processed foods. This way of eating may make a big difference to the appearance of skin as well as improve your overall health.
