Imagine waking up to smooth, glowing skin every morning.
Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it gives you signals when something is wrong. If your skin is talking to you, it’s time to listen. With just a few lifestyle changes, you can significantly improve the health and vitality of your skin.
What you eat has a direct effect on your skin health. You can start to invest in healthy skin by incorporating these five foods into your diet.
1. Healthy Fish
Fish contains a nutrient known as omega-3 fatty acids, which reduces inflammation and maintains healthy cell membranes. It protects your skin from premature aging, balances natural skin oils, and fights acne.
Fish is also a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that keeps your skin firm and protects it from damaging UV rays. The mineral zinc is also found in fish and works to heal and repair your skin.
The healthiest kinds of fish include salmon, mackerel, and lake trout. However, before eating fish, you should always consider any environmental impact. Some species are at risk of overfishing and should be avoided regardless of health benefits.
2. Crunchy Broccoli
In general, dark greens are great for promoting vibrant skin. Broccoli contains many compounds that benefit your skin, including antioxidant vitamins A and C. These vitamins protect your skin from aging and keep you hydrated and glowing.
Broccoli also contains a natural plant compound called sulforaphane, which fights UV damage and may even promote healthy amounts of collagen in your skin. Collagen keeps your skin young, elastic, and hydrated.
3. Sweet Potatoes
Like other yellow and orange vegetables, sweet potatoes contain a pigment called beta-carotene. It can be converted into vitamin A and has valuable antioxidant properties that can protect and strengthen your skin.
Beta-carotene is best absorbed with healthy fats, such as those found in fish or nuts. Healthy fats contribute to a glowing complexion, so this combination is fantastic for your skin. Sweet potatoes also contain high levels of vitamins C and B6 that nourish and protect your skin.
As usual with food, sweet potatoes benefit more than just your skin. Getting enough vitamins and minerals is essential for every person’s well-being, but it’s even more critical if you’re recovering from an addiction or health issue.
4. Smooth Avocado
Similar to fish, avocados are full of healthy fats that support skin health. Essential fatty acids include omega-3s and omega-6s and give your skin the nutrition it needs to thrive. If you eat the typical American diet, you’re probably not getting enough omega-3s to nourish your skin properly.
Eating more foods with healthy fats will help your body maintain the skin’s natural oil barrier, which protects your skin from environmental toxins. Fatty acids also help regulate your skin’s oil production, which can contribute to skin dryness or acne if it’s off-balance.
Although they’re green, avocados are fruits and not vegetables. You can spread avocado on toast, add it to Mexican dishes, or blend it into healthy smoothies. Avocados are delicious and will benefit your body in so many ways!
5. Green Tea
Green tea comes from an evergreen shrub called Camellia Sinensis. Many types of tea come from this plant, including white, black, and oolong tea. Green tea is the freshest kind of tea produced from this plant, which is why it has so many health benefits.
Like many other foods that are good for your skin, green tea is rich in antioxidants. Drinking green tea can also help regulate your blood sugar levels after a meal, making you feel full. The compounds found in green tea can also help you manage stress, reduce inflammation, and nourish and protect your skin.
To significantly improve your skin health, try switching out soft drinks or sugared coffee for green tea instead. You’ll be amazed at the positive effect on your energy levels, mental fog, and skin health.
Eat Up!
Nourishing your body with many kinds of healthy foods is one of the best ways to invest in healthy skin. What you put on your skin externally matters, but nutrition can fight imbalances, inflammation, and aging from within.
The same foods that benefit your skin will positively affect your energy, mental health, and overall wellness. You’ll have fewer breakouts, smoother skin, and an overall healthy glow.
