18 Super-Foods for Glowing Skin

 

It is true that cosmetics can make us look beautiful and young for the time-being but no amount of botox or expensive creams will show any outcome in the long-run unless and until our skin is well-nourished from within. Cosmetics can only be applied on the outside of the skin while foods have the added benefit of working their magic both internally and externally as well. There are certain super-foods which contain an abundance of certain nutrients such as Vitamins A; E; C; omega acids, iron, zinc, etc.; nutrients that are responsible for bringing a healthy glow on our face. Thus consuming foods rich in these nutrients makes sense as we not only derive nutritional benefits out of them but most importantly our skin thrives and flourishes in the presence of these nutrients. Regular consumption of these foods is recommended to maintain a youthful looking skin and also to delay the process of ageing as far as possible.

Our Skin’s Favorite Foods

1.      Blueberries

Blueberries are wonderful for the skin considering that they are rich in antioxidants, Vitamin A and Vitamin C which keep the skin looking young by protecting it from the evident signs of ageing. Blueberries also contain anthocyanins which have great anti-ageing properties. Vitamin C is responsible for the creation of elastin which is vital for skin firmness.

2.      Spinach

Spinach is a wonderful source of Vitamin B, C and E, iron, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids. The antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E and beta-carotene present in spinach protect the skin from free radicals and keep it healthy and wrinkle-free. The abundance of a ton of other nutrients present in spinach keeps the skin glowing and younger-looking.

3.      Pecans

Pecans are blissfully rich in Vitamin E and Vitamin A which protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals thereby keeping the skin looking young. The antioxidants in Pecans protect the skin from the onset of old age such as the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.

4.      Carrots

Do you crave for a lovely glow on your face? Well then you must add carrots and other multi-colored vegetables to your diet as these vegetables are generously loaded with beta-carotene. Our body takes on the responsibility to convert beta-carotene to Vitamin A. Vitamin A is an antioxidant that prevents premature ageing and maintains our skin’s structure. Beta-carotene moreover has the potential to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, thus acting as a natural sunscreen.

5.      Oysters

Oysters have a healthy concentration of zinc, a mineral responsible for production of new cells and shedding of old cells that result in a more glowing appearance. Oysters contain a good concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming omega -3 fatty acids can decrease inflammation. Inflammation can lead to faster skin ageing, hence in order to maintain a youthful skin consumption of omega-3 becomes a necessity.

6.      Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are another great source of beta-carotene. Our body converts beta-carotene to Vitamin A which is responsible for formation of new and healthy cells. Thus sweet potatoes make for a great anti-ageing food.

7.      Salmon

Salmon is one of the greatest sources of omega- 3 fatty acids which preserves the suppleness of the skin and keeps it moisturized. Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the production of anti-inflammatory substances in the body. Omega-3 acids reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles making your skin looking younger. Salmon is also rich in selenium, a mineral which protects the skin from sun damage.

8.      Watermelon

Watermelon is known for its cancer-fighting properties. But did you know that watermelons are a boon to the skin as well. Apart from keeping the skin blemish free they also improve the skin’s elasticity. In addition to this they help smoothen out the skin, which is necessary for a healthier looking face.

9.      Oranges

Oranges are a great wrinkle remover as they help to rebuild the collagen in the skin causing the skin to be firm and enabling it to fight early ageing signs. Oranges are also recognized for their excellent toning qualities and improving the feel of the skin. Vitamin C is one of the important components of skin-care cosmetics. Vitamin C helps the body produce collagen which is needed for a firmer looking skin. Citrus fruits being amply loaded with Vitamin C thus become one of the best foods for the skin.

10.  Eggs

Eggs are rich in two antioxidants namely Lutein and zeaxanthin which significantly protect the skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation that are responsible for the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and brown spots. Eggs yolks contain Vitamin A which enables the skin to repair and renew itself resulting in a younger looking skin.

11.  Avocadoes

Avocadoes contain an abundance of mono-saturated fats which keep the skin moisturized – a real boon for persons who suffer from dry and wrinkly skin. The Omega-9 fatty acids present in avocadoes persevere to repair damaged skin cells. Vitamin C present in avocadoes is responsible for the creation of collagen while Vitamin E protects the skin from the harmful rays for the sun.

12.  Strawberries

Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C which enhances the production of collagen that is necessary for a smoother and a firmer skin. More the Vitamin C intake more is the suppleness of skin. It is seen that women who consume less Vitamin C are more likely to suffer from wrinkled and dry skin. Preliminary research also suggests that strawberries contain an antioxidant called ellagic acid which protects collagen fibers.

13.  Tomatoes

Research has shown that people who consumed a high lycopene diet received more protection from sunburn than those who didn’t consume enough lycopene. People who included lycopene in their diet had firmer skin due to more collagen which is known to prevent sagging and formation of wrinkles. Tomatoes are an awesome source of lycopene so consume these red beauties without hesitation.

14.  Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce contains potassium which improves blood circulation in the skin making it glow. It is rich in Vitamin A that reinvigorates the skin leading to a fresh looking face and a glowing complexion.

15.  Aronia Berries

The antioxidant powers of aronia berries are extremely potent. The polyphenols present in aronia berries is known to reduce inflammation, diminish the breakout of acne and delay the onset of wrinkles. Include a couple of berries in your morning cereal to utilize the beneficial properties of aronia.

16.  Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are loaded with Vitamin C making them a much sought-after ingredient. The vitamin C is responsible for increased collagen production which is necessary for firmer looking and wrinkle free skin. Moreover Vitamin C also has excellent anti-inflammatory properties which protect the skin from sun damage.

17.  Nuts

Almonds are a good source of flavonoids and Vitamin E both of which have the capacity to diminish the impact of free radicals. Almonds keep the skin hydrated and moisturized thus acting as a god-send to people suffering from dryness issues. Similarly walnuts also have a host of health benefits for the skin. They contain alpha-linolenic acid, an omega- fatty acid which keeps the skin hydrated and moisturized.

18.  Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are loaded with proteins and omega- 3 fatty acids. The fatty acids present in chia seeds restores moisture to the skin which results in a supple and moisturized skin.