Soft and youthful skin is often a reflection of one’s health. We all know what we eat can have a dramatic impact on how we look. If you are consistently consuming processed foods or sugar without implementing healthy choices in your diet, the results can show up in the form of various skin conditions like oiliness, acne, dryness, or even puffy, under-eye dark circles.
A balanced and healthy diet consisting of fiber, healthy fats, oils, lean protein, and vegetables are essential for healthy skin. These foods are filled with amino-acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties that help promote healthy skin and protect it from environmental stressors.
So, get your grocery list ready because we’re about to share with you some of the superfoods you can eat to enhance your skincare regimen.
Superfoods for Glowing and Youthful Skin
Below are the superfoods you can eat to help transform your skin. Not only will these nutritional foods help fuel a healthy mind and body, but they can help solve many of the skin complications that we all struggle with.
Superfoods for Those with Acne
Miso: Miso contains a healthy source of probiotics that are essential for your gut health. It also contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help nourish and protect healthy skin cells from the inside out.
Oatmeal: Instead of enjoying a bowl of sugary cereal with additives, try enjoying a bowl of oatmeal instead. Oatmeal has a low glycemic index level — a scale that rates foods according to how much they increase blood sugar levels. Foods with high GI levels increase blood sugar and have been associated with acne breakouts, so opt for foods like oatmeal which don’t cause blood sugar spikes.
Artichokes: Although artichokes are a must-have when it comes to our favorite spinach dip, artichokes contain a flavonoid called silymarin. This flavonoid is an antioxidant that helps protect your liver and reduces the appearance of blemishes.
Superfood for Those with Dry Skin
Sardines: Yes, fish in a can has been proven beneficial for skincare. Sardines contain an excellent amount of selenium and vitamin B12 that both work together to help promote healthy skin. B12 plays a very important role in the reproduction of new skin cells, while selenium produces an antioxidant called glutathione, which helps protect our skin’s barrier.
Avocados: Avocados are rich in healthy oils and vitamin E, which both help support the building blocks for healthy skin cell function and hydration.
Superfood for Those with Oily Skin
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes contain a high level of vitamin A. Sources of vitamin A have been shown to help reduce the production of sebum (oil) production in the skin and can be used to combat acne.
Cinnamon: The spice that almost everyone has in their pantry is perfect for stimulating circulation and increasing blood flow. You can either make cinnamon into a paste and apply it directly to your face or add a dash to your favorite smoothie or coffee to start your day.
Superfoods for All Types of Skin
Ginger: Ginger has become very popular for it’s detoxing capabilities, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. One study, in particular, showed ginger having a soothing effect on the irritated skin.
Tomatoes: Aside from adding a little color to your salads, tomatoes contain one of the best sources of lycopene. Lycopene is an anti-aging antioxidant that helps protect your skin against environmental stressors that can cause clogged pores and breakouts.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds contain one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s help maintain the building blocks for healthy skin, cell function, and the production of collagen, which help reduce the appearance of dark lines and wrinkles.
Whether you are dealing with dry and flaky skin or just trying to implement more healthy choices into your diet, these super foods contain powerful ingredients that are not only beneficial for your tummy but your skin as well. So next time you’re having trouble getting rid of blemishes or reducing the oil production of your skin, try heading into your kitchen because the solution might be stored away in your pantry or fridge!
