When it comes to the skin, there is one thing that we know for sure: what you eat can have a direct effect on how you look. If you are not eating superfoods for glowing skin and instead are consuming processed foods or those high in fat and sugar and devoid of fiber, it can appear in the form of dull skin, maybe along with other issues such as oiliness, dryness, acne, or dark under-eye circles.
A diet which is focused on raw fruits and vegetables, spices, healthy oils, and fiber is best for boosting healthy skin. These foods tend to provide high-quality amino acids and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich ingredients which stimulate optimal skin metabolism and fight against environmental stressors.
One of the stressors is free-radical damage that can weaken the immunity of your skin and destroy its metabolic functions. It causes the skin to become uneven, and it loses the effervescent glow we are always seeking out. It is also able to trigger inflammatory reactions which break down collagen, leading to the thin, wrinkled, and blotchy skin.
Now, let’s look at that grocery list. They will not only fuel a healthy mind and body but also help to solve the biggest skin concerns and lead you to the most glowing look.
Any type of skin
- Ginger: Ginger is praised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which are found in the root of this kind of spice. Not to mention studies indicate that ginger can have a soothing impact on skin, hence don’t be surprised as you see it on facial menus.
- Chia seeds: Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help to provide building blocks for the healthy skin cell function and the production of new collagen to keep the foundation of the skin healthy and wrinkle-free.
- Tomatoes: This fruit is an excellent source of lycopene, an anti-aging antioxidant which may help to prevent heart disease. Some researches show that the body quickly absorbs lycopene as it is cooked, hence go nuts on those comforting soups and stews this season.
Skin with acne, you should eat
- Oatmeal: Oatmeal acts as a gentle exfoliant that gets rid of impurities and dead skin cells. Plus, it helps absorb the excess oil from the skin without drying it out. It also contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which not only take care of the acne but also stop future breakouts.
- Miso: We might be boring and tell you to consume yogurt since it provides plenty of probiotics, which are great for the skin, bloat control, and digestive system. But you have heard that a billion times before and it is not exactly helpful if you are lactose intolerant. Instead, try miso that contains all of the same gut-friendly bugs.
- Artichokes: Artichokes have flavonoid silymarin, an antioxidant which can protect the liver and help to clear blemish-prone skin.
Oily skin, you should eat
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are an excellent option due to their high levels of vitamin A. The derivatives of vitamin A have been indicated to help to reduce oil production in your skin and are a treatment for acne. Carrots are another good vitamin A option. However, overdosing on them can have side effects which are harmful to the health. Some research has found those side impacts could include dizziness, blurry vision, and bone pain.
- Cinnamon: This primary spice is great for boosting circulation and blood flow that brings nutrients and oxygen directly to your skin. Additionally, some studies have indicated that cinnamon could help balance and stabilize blood sugar levels, which is crucial as a diet heavy in refined carbs and sugar can stimulate oil production.
Dry skin, you should eat
- Avocados: High levels of vitamin E and healthy oils, both of which are found in this superfood, provide the building blocks for the healthy skin cell function. Avocados may also help to improve barrier function and hydration.
- Olive Oil: This oil is loaded with polyphenols, a kind of plant compound having antioxidant properties. It is a great moisturizing ingredient as well.
Help wrinkles, you should eat
- Buckwheat: Buckwheat is a rich source of rutin, a bioflavonoid which helps your body utilizes vitamin C. Rutin also helps to maintain collagen levels in your skin, keeping your skin elastic and firm. Plus, buckwheat groats are packed with protein that is needed for skin repair.
- Blueberries: Blueberries are a boon to anyone who worried about wrinkles. Because of the high concentration of anthocyanins, blueberries can contribute to the health of your collagen matrix by scavenging free radicals and neutralizing enzymes which destroy connective tissue. The anthocyanins also enhance the impacts of vitamin C which is contained in blueberries. Also, blueberries are a great source of vitamin E.
Dark under-eye circles, you should eat
- Almonds: Almonds have the high content of healthy fat and protein. And it also provides a full of fat-soluble vitamin E which is a critical player in keeping the whole mugshot, including the eyes glowing. Studies have found that vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and helps reduce the damage done to the skin by free radicals. It means it is also able to stop the breakdown of skin cells under the eyes, helping prevent wrinkles and even helping reduce dark circles.
- Spinach: This superfood is rich in vitamin K that is a powerhouse nutrient when it comes to boosting coagulation and blood circulation. Spinach is also packed with zinc that has been found to help to reduce inflammation and prevent acne breakouts. Plus, it contains zeaxanthin, a naturally-occurring antioxidant which protects your skin and helps to lighten the skin tone.
Dark spots, you should eat
- Citrus fruits: The dark spots are resulted in by the production of extra pigment because of UV light exposure. Topical antioxidants such as vitamin C in citrus fruits can help to brighten dark spots, calm inflammation, and improve the skin complexion.
- Bell peppers: Bell peppers are another superfood high in vitamin C. These veggies can help to smoothen out the skin and lighten your appearance of any dark spots resulted by the overproduction of pigmentation.
Dull complexion, you should eat
- Paprika: Paprika is a great source of antioxidants that include vitamin E and C, and beneficial carotenoids such as zeaxanthin.
- Turmeric: This spice has curcumin, an antioxidant which combats free radicals which are seriously dulling the skin. It also stimulates collagen synthesis, and as used topically, it can help renew your skin by working as a stimulator for skin firmness and elasticity, in turn fighting any wrinkles.
Above are 18 superfoods for each skin problem. These foods are not difficult to find, so try to add it to your daily meals to achieve the best result. You do not need to consume one food every day; you can change it optionally as if it is healthy for your skin. Once finalized, keep away from processed and fatty foods, or else it is not worth trying.
Author bio:
This guest post is by Emily Pham, a blogger with many years of experience in searching the best natural home remedies for beauty and health issues. All content provided is for informational and educational purposes. We recommend you consult a healthcare professional to determine which method is appropriate for you. Thanks for your reading!