Who doesn’t want healthy skin that glows? While many people chase healthy skin for the youthful appearance it gives, there are bigger reasons to take care of your skin. Skin is the largest organ in the body (yes, it’s technically an organ!), and we need to be supplying it with health-supporting foods. What you are putting into your body can either help or harm your skin’s health. Here are some of the best foods you can eat to keep your skin clear and healthy:
Berries
Or any foods with antioxidants, really! Antioxidants help fight free radicals and have an anti-aging effect. Some great foods would be strawberries and blueberries, as well as other vibrantly colored produce like pomegranates, apricots, beets, and tangerines.
Citrus
The sun can do lasting damage to our skin. In fact, skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the United States. Adding fruits high in Vitamin C to your diet will help fortify your skin against the sun’s harsh rays. Lemons, limes, kiwis, and papayas are just a few options to increase your vitamin C.
Orange Fruits and Vegetables
Gotta get that Vitamin A! Orange foods like carrots, cantaloupe, pumpkin, and oranges are rich in Vitamin A, which is an antioxidant that helps fight free radicals. It will also help prevent dry skin.
Healthy Fats
According to WebMD, “Omega-3s and omega-6s are good fats that help make your skin's natural oil barrier, keeping away dryness and blemishes.” Flaxseeds and walnuts are two great options here.
Nuts and Seeds
Vitamin E protects your skin from the sun as well as from inflammation, and it is found in most nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds are an easy way to add more skin healthy foods to your diet. Check out these easy ways to add more seeds to your diet.
Green Tea
What doesn’t green tea do?! This powerhouse drink is filled with antioxidants! One study shows “that drinking green tea may reduce your risk of skin cancer.” You could even try adding some lemon to your tea for extra healthy skin promoting benefits.
Water
Okay, so water may not be a food, but it is essential for healthy skin! Staying hydrated keeps your skin moist, enhances blood flow, and makes it easier for your cells to do their jobs (source). Try some of these tips for upping your water intake.
How do you keep your skin happy and healthy? Let us know in the comments below!
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