Food and your skin

You are what you eat is truer than true. Especially when it comes to your skin. Your body’s largest organ is directly affected by the foods you consume.

Here are some foods that will contribute to your beautiful glow! 

1. Carrots:

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They say they’re good for your vision, but they’re also great for breakouts! Containing vitamin A which helps to prevent the overproduction of skin cells (which in turn produces sebum and dead cells leading to clogged pores). Vitamin A has also been found to reduce the development of skin-cancer cells, so nibble on a half-cup a day to keep the doctor away!

 

2. Flaxseeds:

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These tiny seeds contain major omega-3 fatty acids. This is great for ironing out fine lines and diminishing spots. The fats are believed to stifle the body’s response to irritation, thus why those who include them into their diets regularly experienced significantly less redness and irritation. The fats also attract water to the skin cells which plumps it up to reduce wrinkles, which is why those who consume them also experienced increased hydration. Incorporate about 2 grams (half a teaspoon) to your daily intake by sprinkling seeds on your oatmeal, veggies, or even blend them into a smoothie.

 

3. Almonds: 

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Which interestingly enough, are actually seeds, not nuts! But they are packed with vitamin E, which is a potently effective sun blocker. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that acts as a protectant from UV rays, and other free radicals (environmental factors like smoke and pollution) that generate cell damage. Enjoy about 20 almonds a day to keep UV rays at bay!

 

4. Green Tea:

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When heated, catechins (an antioxidant with proven anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties) are released. But the effectiveness of the antioxidants start to diminish as it cools, so drink it while it’s hot! Try drinking up to 2 cups a day!

 

5. Dark Chocolate:

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Last, but certainly not least! Flavanols, the antioxidant found in dark chocolate, reduce the rough texture of the skin and protect against sun damage. This study published by The Journal of Nutrition found women who drank cocoa fortified with 326 milligrams of flavonols (equal to a standard Hershey’s Special Dark bar) had better skin texture and stronger resistance to UV rays than those who drank cocoa containing just a small amount of the antioxidant. You need just a few ounces a day. Dark chocolate containing at least 65% cacao provides the most benefit. It’s science, can’t argue with that so just enjoy!