Things You Didn't Know Are Affecting Your Skin: Food
We've all heard the phrase "you are what you eat." What they really mean is that what you put into your body may impact your appearance. Suppose you are not explicitly eating foods that maintain radiant, glowing skin and instead are chowing down on foods that are high in sugar and fat and lack fiber. In that case, your skin will suffer the consequences of dull skin, acne, dryness, oiliness, and even pesky dark circles under-eyes.
We always recommend speaking with your trusted dermatologist or a nutritionist if you suspect that what you are eating is the cause of your skin concerns. Our goal is to show you the best and worst foods for your skin.
The Best Food
Fatty Fish
Fish, such as salmon, herring, and mackerel, are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, vital for maintaining great skin. A lack of omega-3 fatty acid can cause dry skin because omega-3 is an essential part of keeping your skin thick, healthy, and moisturized. The omega-3 fats in fish help to reduce inflammation, which usually causes redness and acne.
Fatty fish also provide zinc. Zinc is vital for regulating:
Inflammation
the production of new skin cells
overall skin health
This type of seafood is also a source of Vitamin E. Vitamin E is essential for protecting against damage and free radical inflammation.
Dark Chocolate
We knew you would be happy about this one. We're giving you one more reason to eat chocolate. The effect of cocoa on your skin is fantastic. Studies show that individuals who consumed high-antioxidant dark chocolate were less sensitive to sunburn, had less dry, flaky skin, and better blood flow, which results in more nutrients for your skin.
When looking for dark chocolate, make sure you choose one with at least 70% cocoa to enhance the benefits and keep added sugar to a minimum.
Avocado
Avocados are a great source of healthy fats. Supplying your body with enough of these healthy fats is vital for skin flexibility, keeping it healthy and moisturized. In recent studies, it is said that avocados contain compounds that can help protect your skin from sun damage. Sun damage may lead to premature aging and fine lines and wrinkles.
Broccoli
This one may not come as a surprise. Broccoli contains an array of vitamins and minerals that are important for skin health. Broccoli contains vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc.
Broccoli also contains sulforaphane, which is said to have some pretty impressive potential benefits. It may have anti-cancer effects on some types of skin cancers. Sulforaphane boldly combats sun damage while also neutralizing harmful free radicals. Evidence even shows sulforaphane may help boost and maintain collagen levels in the skin.
Red or Yellow Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are known to be a beta carotene source, which your body converts into vitamin A. They're also one of the best sources of vitamin C. This vitamin is essential for creating and boosting the protein collagen, which keeps skin firm and strong.
A large study involving women linked plenty of vitamin C consumption to a reduced risk of wrinkled and dry skin with age.
What you eat can significantly affect the health of your skin. Always be cautious of what you are putting into your body and ensure that you are getting enough nutrients to protect your skin. This list of foods are great options to keep your skin firm and healthy.