Fab Foods 4 Life
8 SUPER WAYS TO KEEP SKIN GLOWING
Turning back time or even making it stand still could just be a snack away. Here’s some super ways to feast your fancy and boost your beauty all at the same time.
By Patti Milligan, MS RD CNS
FAB FOODS 4 LIFE
WATER – Your #1 source to ageless skin is just a drink away! – Water is the obvious but little known arsenal you have against aging skin. That’s why they call it “moisturizing” – because you’re locking moisture, aka water, into your skin. FYI: the body’s processes rely on hydration, so by not sipping throughout the day, you’re likely to have a slower metabolism, groggier head and, yes, drier skin! One study suggests a mere half-liter of water creates a measurable increase in the capillary blood flow to your body’s outer layer. So drink plenty and often!
For extra hydration try these WATER-RICH FOODS: Watermelon, Cucumbers, Peaches and Celery.
Almonds – Munch away at these Vitamin E powerhouses – 1/4 of a cup of almonds a day provides nearly 45% of the daily recommended Vitamin E intake! These nutty nutrients promote healthy skin, hair and nails by protecting cell membranes from free radical damage. Rich in protein, they’re a great source of portable energy and contain cholesterol lowering, monosaturated fats that are good for the heart!
Sunflower & Pumpkin Seeds – Two super seeds that fight wrinkles – ¼ of a cup of sunflower seeds provides nearly 91% of the daily recommended Vitamin E intake! Super-charged with selenium’s antioxidant properties they promote smoother, plumper skin. Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc which helps repair sun damaged skin. Best results: Mix the two together for a “skinsational” treat.
Cucumbers – A cool veggie that boosts skin’s vibrancy! – Cucumbers pack a cool one-two collagen punch. They are rich in silica, an essential trace mineral that works to enhance collagen formation and heal skin, and they’re brimming with Vitamin C, a key component to collagen production. It’s a collagen combo that will keep skin healthy, youthful and glowing.
Apples – Fruit that re-hydrates – The old saying, “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away,” holds more truth than we know. Apples are natural detoxifiers owing to pectin, a soluble fiber that naturally clears waste products from the body. Containing minimal calories, but packed with plenty of water that helps to rehydrate, this beauty boosting fruit encourages clearer, healthier, younger-looking skin. Pack a few in a Ziploc to go.
Avocados – Mother Nature’s ultimate skin moisturizer – Loaded with anti-aging nutrients, such as Vitamin C and E, and Omega 3 fatty acids, avocados combat wrinkles, enhance skin tone and trigger collagen production. Here’s an added benefit: a medium-size avocado has 30 grams of monosatured fat – it’s the good fat that lowers cholesterol. So enjoy guilt-free.
Sweet Potatoes – Here’s a sweet way to sensational skin – Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, a potent antioxidant that helps fight aging skin. They help switch on the body’s production of new skin cells and help alkalize the body, leaving skin smooth and fresh. Add cinnamon to help steady blood glucose and ensure steady nutrient delivery to nourish skin cells.
Lemons – Pucker Up for this super anti-oxidant food – Brimming with Vitamin C, a powerful anti-oxidant for the skin and gums, one medium size lemon contains more than 45% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C! Lemons are the body’s natural internal cleanser. Aiding in digestion and clearing toxins, lemons help leave the skin young and vibrant.
BAD NEWS FOODS
Feast your eyes, not your stomach at a list of foods to avoid.
Allergens
Many people have a mild food allergy and don’t even know it. Common culprits include dairy, nuts and gluten. The allergic reaction can show up on your skin as rashes, eczema breakouts and odd pigmentation. Try removing one of these at a time from your diet and see if that makes a difference, or make an appointment with a doctor to test for any food allergies.
Nonorganic Red Meat & Dairy
Some studies have shown that switching to organic red meat and milk products can lead to improved skin. Limiting the amount of flesh protein and switching to veggie sources can also be beneficial. However, since meat provides essential nutrients like iron, calcium and protein, be sure to get those in other foods like beans, soy products, quinoa and green leafy veggies.
Dehydrating Foods
Put an end to dehydrated skin by drinking plenty of water and avoid water robbing foods such as: caffeine, alcohol, salty foods, deli meats, and high sodium foods such as frozen foods and canned items.
High Glycemic Foods
High glycemic foods mean they cause your blood sugar to spike. The culprits include: white breads, pasta, potato chips, candy bars, and white rice. The bad news: high glycemic diets have been linked to heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and obesity. The good news: studies show a low glycemic diet can reduce acne by up to 50%!
Trans Fat & Fried Foods
Trans fats have been found to slow blood circulation, which can cause clogged pores, acne, bacteria build up and flaky skin. Foods to monitor: many convenience and fast foods, heat-and-eat meals and quick snack foods.
