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We all love to eat. And we all have
probably been told (by our grandmothers, no doubt) that eating the wrong foods
can wreak havoc on our skin. I’m here to tell you that a lot of those rumors
are just that – rumors. In this blog post, I’ll tell you all about the real
super foods…and debunk some myths along the way.
For Anti-Aging
Vitamin C
A 2007 study released by the
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that higher intakes of vitamin C
and linoleic acid and lower intakes of fats and carbohydrates were associated
with better skin-aging appearance. In simpler words: More vitamin C means fewer
wrinkles, less dryness and a reduced risk for skin atrophy.
Sweet Potatoes
Wrinkles are, unfortunately, an
unavoidable sign of aging. What you can help control is how quickly the aging
process takes place. Try eating sweet potatoes — these orange spuds are filled
with vitamin C that helps with the production of collagen, which helps smooth
out wrinkles and prevent new ones.
Flaxseeds
If you’re not a fan of sweet
potatoes, try adding flaxseeds to your diet. Flaxseeds fight wrinkles because
of their payload of omega-3 fatty acids. These super seeds go great on top of your
favorite yogurt and salads. You can also try blending them into your favorite
smoothie!
Almonds or Avocados
If taste is your goal, add some
almonds or avocados to your diet. These super foods are packed with vitamin E,
which helps fight sun damage.
Tuna
Although dietitians do not
always recommend canned foods, canned tuna is what I would consider an
exception. That’s right, canned tuna contains skin-tightening selenium that
preserves elastin, a powerful protein that helps your skin maintain its
elasticity – and fight wrinkles.
For Anti-Aging and Lowering Your Risk of Skin Cancer: Vegetables. All
of them.
Being told to “eat your
vegetables” doesn’t seem as ridiculous as an adult — especially if you want healthy
skin! Oranges, limes, kale, asparagus, spinach and grapefruits are rich sources
of vitamin C – which, of course, is Super Food No. 1 for anti-aging.
Veggies can prevent skin cancer
too! Spinach is particularly important for skin health because of its ability
to fight various skin cancers, and carrots are filled with vitamin A, which
reduces the risk of developing skin cancer cells. A bonus for carrots: They’re great
blemish blasters for those with minor breakouts.
For Anti-Aging and Antioxidants: Green Tea
Green tea has become very
popular in the last several years, as the media has reported on a variety of
studies extolling its value. Are you drinking it yet? You should be. If all of
those studies weren’t enough to convince you, here is one more: Green tea has
always been known for its antioxidants and anti-cancer properties, but a recent
study has found that drinking two to six cups a day will not only help prevent
skin cancer, but can help reverse the effects of sun damage. Remember to drink
this mighty tea when it’s hot – the antioxidants degrade as it cools.
For Dry Skin: Safflower Oil
As important as it is for
our skin to actually be healthy, most of strive for it to look healthy
as well. Try safflower oil. It’s packed with omega-6 fatty acids that act as a
natural moisturizer, and can be beneficial for people suffering from dry, flaky
or itchy skin. Some studies have
found that this oil may even help with eczema.
Did I miss anything you want to ask about? Leave your questions in the comments and I'll answer them there.
