Did you know: Our skin is our largest organ and it’s usually the first to signal that something may be off in our bodies? Think acne, blemishes, eczema and more. There are so many factors that play into skin issues.
If you want a clear and radiant complexion, shiny hair, and strong nails, you have to start with what you’re putting into your body. Not to mention, an unhealthy diet can also damage your metabolism, cause weight gain, and even damage organs, such as your heart and liver. Here are the top five foods and one drink that are scientifically proven to help improve your complexion!
1. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, and herring), are excellent foods for healthy skin. They’re rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining skin health. Fatty fish is also a source of vitamin E, one of the most important antioxidants for your skin. Getting enough vitamin E is essential for helping protect your skin against damage from free radicals and inflammation.
2. Berries
Blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries—not to mention the all-powerful goji berry—are high in antioxidants and packed with nutrients. Antioxidants are anti-inflammatories that aid the body to heal itself while also protecting against further free-radical damage—doing wonders for your skin. Get your berries boys and gals!
3. Avocados
Avocados are high in healthy fats. These fats benefit many functions in your body, including the health of your skin. Preliminary evidence also shows that avocados contain compounds that may help protect your skin from sun damage. Yup, too much exposure to UV can cause wrinkles and other signs of aging. Avocados are also a good source of vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that helps protect your skin from oxidative damage.
4. Walnuts
In general, nuts and seeds are good sources of skin-boosting nutrients. They contain a good amount of fatty acids, which are fats that your body cannot make itself. In fact, they’re richer than most other nuts in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
5. Green Tea
Green tea may help protect your skin from damage and aging. The powerful compounds found in green tea are called catechins and work to improve the health of your skin in several ways. Like several other antioxidant-containing foods, green tea can help protect your skin against sun damage. One 12-week study involving 60 women found that drinking green tea daily could reduce redness from sun exposure by up to 25%.
