Have you recently consumed a lot of processed foods, high in sugar and fat, and now you are wondering why your face looks dull, your skin is blemish-prone, dry or oily? Plus, your dark circles are only getting darker...?
I'm sure you've heard this phrase before: "You are what you eat." If you rolled your eyes when you heard it, have a little patience with us. For what ? Well, because it's true. No matter how many fantastic cosmetic products you use, there is one thing that directly influences your skin's glow, or in many cases, lack thereof: your diet.
How Certain Foods Affect Your Skin
We've already told you how good pineapple and coffee are for your skin, but that's not all. These are actually just the beginning of a long list of superfoods beneficial for healthy-looking, radiant skin.
In general, not only nutritionists, but also dermatologists emphasize the importance of a high-quality and balanced diet, rich in lean proteins (mainly of plant origin), whole grain varieties, healthy oils, fruits , vegetables, as well as spices to maintain a healthy body and glowing skin.
So what makes these foods so magical? They contain high-quality amino acids, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients that promote optimal skin metabolism, maintain skin firmness and protect against environmental stresses such as free radical damage. Free radicals can weaken skin immunity and metabolism, eventually leading to uneven and dull skin. Additionally, they can trigger inflammatory reactions that damage collagen, leading to thinner, wrinkled, and blotchy skin.
Anyway, enough technical terms. Let's get started. Here is a list of the best foods that absolutely must be a part of your kitchen and definitely your stomach. Not only are they a great addition to your skincare routine to combat acne, oily or dry skin, wrinkles and dark circles, but they also keep your body and mind healthy and happy. You really can't go wrong with this.
Versatile foods for all skin types
Tomatoes : This red concentrate is rich in vitamin C and contains all the essential carotenoids, including lycopene. Beta-carotene, lutein and lycopene effectively prevent skin damage due to sun exposure. Additionally, they are considered excellent anti-aging weapons, as they also prevent the formation of wrinkles. Their high carotenoid content therefore makes them an excellent food for healthy skin. It is best to pair them with a good source of fat, as fat increases the absorption of carotenoids in the body.
Ginger : The root is best known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to have a soothing effect on the skin, making it an excellent ingredient for facial scrubs or masks.
Chia Seeds : Whether you treat yourself to a healthy pudding dessert or add them to your smoothie or porridge, chia seeds are a great way to provide your skin with the essential elements needed to maintain cellular function healthy and optimal collagen production. Chia seeds are one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which give your skin a strong foundation to stay firm and wrinkle-free.
Best Foods for Oily Skin
Cinnamon : Do you like a good spicy Chai Latte? Yes, U.S. too. And your skin too! By the way, make sure it's homemade and doesn't contain a ton of sugar. Anyway, I may be digressing a bit. Let's get back to the basics: Cinnamon stimulates blood circulation, which helps transport oxygen and nutrients directly to the skin. And if that wasn't enough, cinnamon is believed to stabilize blood sugar levels. A stable blood sugar level is especially important if you eat a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates, which in turn stimulates fat production. You can add this spice to your smoothie, tea or dishes.
Sweet Potatoes : The days of the low-carb diet are over, right? Foods rich in carbohydrates like sweet potatoes not only provide us with nutrients and a feeling of satisfaction, but also provide a significant amount of vitamin A. Vitamin A effectively reduces the skin's oil production and promotes the treatment of the skin. acne. If sweet potatoes aren't your thing, you can also eat carrots.
Recommended Foods for Dry Skin
Lawyers : A-vo-ca-do. Sorry, but it had to be done. Either way, this superfood contains significant amounts of good fats and vitamin E, both essential elements for your skin. They support healthy cellular function, improve barrier function and skin hydration. So the next time you consider reaching for a second serving of this delicious guacamole, just say yes and think of the smooth, soft skin that awaits you afterwards.
Nuts : Another food with an “aha” effect. Walnuts are rich in vitamins E, C, zinc and selenium, and guess what: All of these vitamins are good for healthy skin. Compared to other nuts, walnuts also contain a higher proportion of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, making them a great snack. However, moderation is required. Excessive consumption can sometimes lead to weight gain, bloating, or stomach upset.
How to treat acne with diet
Miso : Yes, it's a bit unusual, but miso contains many probiotics which are good not only for digestion, but also for the skin. It seems to be similar to yogurt, right? Yes almost. The difference is that miso is not inflammatory like most dairy products available on the market and does not contain lactose.
Artichokes and spinach : A great combination. The former contain the flavonoid silymarin, an antioxidant that protects the liver and promotes clear skin. Spinach is rich in vitamin K and zinc, which help reduce inflammation and breakouts. Eat them together, and your acne will be a thing of the past.
Foods that fight wrinkles
Oily Fish : Salmon is a good non-vegetarian option for healthy skin. Like avocado and chia seeds, salmon contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids that promote collagen production. Collagen is a protein that gives skin firmness and keeps it wrinkle-free.
Quinoa : A well-known superfood, rich in good carbohydrates, protein and important amino acids. Additionally, it contains high amounts of riboflavin, which promotes skin elasticity and the formation of connective tissue. This leads to smooth skin and a reduction in lines and wrinkles.
Eggs : Another non-vegetarian food that is beneficial for your skin health. Egg whites contain plenty of lysine and proline, two types of amino acids, as well as the previously mentioned collagen. So if you eat a few quality free-range eggs from time to time, this will naturally promote collagen production and act as an anti-aging weapon against lines and wrinkles. If you are vegetarian or vegan, you don't have to worry either. Peanuts are also a great vegan source of lysine.
Goodbye dark circles under the eyes
Green leafy vegetables : ...like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, arugula, bok choy as well as broccoli and sprouts, are real powerhouses when it comes to the freshness of your face. They all contain a lot of vitamin K, which improves blood circulation and clotting. Bitter vegetables also support the body's natural detoxification process, cleanse the liver and promote clear skin.
Foods for a glowing complexion
Turmeric : Of course, this spice cannot be missing. Turmeric is one of the most touted spices, and for good reason. Turmeric contains curcumin, an antioxidant that reduces free radicals that cause dull skin. At the same time, it promotes the synthesis of collagen and helps the skin to renew itself by supporting its elasticity and firmness, making it an excellent anti-aging remedy. It is also an excellent remedy for cleansing the liver and fighting infections. Use it in cooking, as a dietary supplement or add it to your tea.
Peppers : Another excellent spice that should not be missing from your diet if you are aiming for a healthy complexion is peppers. It is another source of antioxidants, contains vitamin C and E, as well as the carotenoid zeaxanthin. In summary, add it to your diet and be ready to glow.