Food for Beauty
How your diet can improve your appearance.
We all know the old saying 'you are what you eat’; with so much research into food and the effects of it we can now bring it into the 21st century.
Until very recently, most of the dietary advice we were given was based around weight management or the prevention of ill health and disease.
Now it is more frequently the case that research is focusing on how we can eat to improve more than just our health, our looks are now under the microscope.
There are thought to be some key nutrients that can help us to preserve our youthful appearance.
Food for Beauty
Vitamins A, C and E, for example, are thought to be essential to healthy skin.
Vitamin A, also known as beta-carotene, helps block UV radiation. Great sources of this complexion boosting nutrient are carrots, spinach and squash.
Vitamin C and E are both antioxidants that help to encourage skin cell rejuvenation and formation of collagen. Broccoli, citrus fruits, red peppers and strawberries are all rich in vitamin C, while almonds, avocados and dark, leafy vegetables are great sources of vitamin E.
It is generally thought to be better for us to get these important nutrients from our food rather than from supplements, the supplements may not deliver the same benefits and can even increase disease risk, according to some studies. Although getting your vitamins from somewhere is better than not getting them at all.
Food for Beauty
Other things to consider if you want to put your best face forward are;
Eat good fats, such as those found in seafood and walnuts. These will help to reduce the inflammation that may lead to wrinkles.
Avoid refined carbohydrates, which can cause insulin spikes and skin breakouts.
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, keep skin hydrated.
Strengthen nails by including biotin-rich foods such as eggs, soya and rice bran in your diet.
Keeping your body weight under control also helps you to look good outside. A well balanced diet of natural, whole foods like fruit and vegetables will give you more than just age-defying antioxidants, the high fiber and water content of this diet type will keep your hunger at bay. |
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