Who doesn’t want good, glowing skin? Whether you are 25 or 55, clear and healthy skin is probably on your list of goals. Chances are you have a medicine cabinet full of lotions, potions, and creams that promise to get you to that dream of blemish free, wrinkle free, supple skin. No doubt that some of those things may be helping, but chances are all the products in the world won’t put you over the finish line if you are making poor choices when it comes to food.
So, to make things easier for you, here are some tips to keep in mind.
* Inflammation breaks down collagen and causes your skin to become thin and more prone to acne while free radical damage weakens your skin’s immunity causing it to become uneven and lose its glow. To combat this, you need to choose an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich diet that protects against environmental stressors and aging. Sounds harder then it is!
* Dump the seed oils! Vegetable oil and canola oil to name a few are wreaking havoc on your skin. Even if you aren’t cooking with them, but you are eating lots of take out and processed food, you are not helping your skin or your health. Olive oil should be your new best friend!
* Eat your fruits and veggies! Antioxidant rich choices are spinach, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, carrots, sweet potatoes, tomatoes (especially cooked),citrus fruit, and berries. Notice I didn’t say juice! Juice is mainly sugar and if you want good skin, staying far, far away from sugar is your best bet.
* Omega 3s matter! They are the cornerstone of an anti inflammatory diet. Salmon, anchovies, chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are all good options along with a quality supplement.
* Spices such as ginger, turmeric, and paprika are great additions and have anti inflammatory properties. Add to smoothies, marinades, or salad dressings to spice up your food and improve your skin.
* Regulating your blood sugar plays a big part in the health and look of your skin. If your sugar level is constantly spiking up and down all day long don't be surprised if your start seeing break outs and dull skin. Choose low glycemic foods such as oatmeal (not the instant packets), quinoa, lean protein, nuts and seeds, and of course vegetables.
* Probiotics and fermented foods are great for your skin! So if you aren’t eating sauerkraut or even drinking a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with water every day- give it a try. If your gut is healthy so is your skin!
* What to avoid? Refined carbs such as white bread, pasta, and baked goods. If you want to glow, say no to fast food and fried food too. Alcohol definitively speeds up the aging process so if you are going to drink, keep it in moderation. Sugar is enemy number one and that includes artificial sweeteners. Dairy isn’t for everyone so pay attention and see if its right for you. Lastly, if it's packaged or processed, think twice!
Your skin tells your story, and if you are caring for it from the inside out then chances are you’ll like the ending. Start small, but start. Your skin will thank you.
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