New Year, New Skin

        Generally speaking, a healthy, balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables is a great start. Staying away from fried foods, processed foods, refined sugars, alcohol, sodas, and sugary juices will help support your overall health as well as your skin health. But eating for healthy skin is not just about which foods you subtract from your diet, it’s also about the ones you add to your diet.

Foods to fight inflammation 

        Inflammation is at the root of many skin problems and overall health problems as well. Chronic inflammation is linked to both internal and external factors, including the foods you eat and the environment you live and work in. Changes in diet and lifestyle are typically the first approach for treating chronic inflammation. Many of the 20 foods on this list help fight inflammation, including:

1.     Ginger

2.     Walnuts

3.     Salmon

4.     Chia seeds

5.     Blueberries

Foods to assist with cell turnover and collagen production

        When damaged skin cells are replaced with new skin cells, it’s called cell turnover. The faster this process happens, the more youthful and radiant the skin appears. Good nutrition can help improve cell turnover, particularly foods with antioxidants. Some foods can also help fight the aging process by increasing the body’s collagen production. Try eating these foods for firmer, stronger, more youthful-looking skin. 

6.     Citrus fruits

7.     Eggs

8.     Kale

9.     Broccoli

10.  Sardines

Foods to keep skin supple

        Foods with high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids provide your skin with plumping, smoothing moisture that keeps it hydrated. Biotin-rich foods also help maintain healthy skin, nails, and hair. Work these foods into your diet to keep your skin smooth, hydrated, and supple. 

11.  Avocado

12.  Salmon

13.  Green tea

14.  Almonds

15.  Lentils

Foods to increase sun protection

        Some foods contain antioxidants that, when accumulated in the skin, absorb sunlight and increase your protection from the harmful effects of UV rays. Studies have shown that carotenoids like beta carotene, which is found in sweet potatoes, and lycopene, found in tomatoes, can reduce the risk of sunburn. It’s important to always wear sunscreen, of course, but regularly consuming the following foods may provide you with an added layer of protection. 

16.  Sweet potatoes

17.  Carrots

18.  Tomatoes

19.  Dark chocolate

20.  Sunflower seeds

        Of course, not all skin problems are caused by the foods you eat. Genetics, the aging process, environmental toxins, sun exposure, and other factors can result in blemishes, wrinkles, breakouts, uneven skin tone, rough patches, discoloration, and other skin issues. In some cases, skincare products are the problem. The best way to determine (and treat) the cause of your skin concerns is to book a free consultation with us by giving us a call at 347-916-0033