Live Healthy NYC: Foods for Good Skin!

Live Healthy NYC: Foods for Good Skin!: This has been a harsh winter all across the country. The cold and snow haven't let up. I don't know about you, but the weather ha...

Foods for Good Skin!

This has been a harsh winter all across the country. The cold and snow haven't let up. I don't know about you, but the weather has in fact taken a toll on my skin. It doesn't seem to matter that I have taken stock in face and body and creams, the weather has worn my skin down!

So I have done my research and want to share with you a select group of foods that will help your skin to glow!

H2O:

The most important element! Without enough water, your skin can lose elasticity and become dry, making skin vulnerable to germs and contaminants. Proper hydration improves the health of your skin by keeping the surface moisturized and helping to prevent clogged pores. Women need approximately 91 ounces of water per day and men need about 125 ounces, according to the Institute of Medicine. About 80 percent of this fluid comes from drinking water and other fluid-containing beverages, while the other 20 percent of your daily need comes from fluid-containing foods, such as raw fruits and vegetables. Prolonged physical activity, hot weather, dry weather, and illness can all increase your need for water. Pay attention to your thirst and sweat level, and increase your water intake if needed.

  

Blueberries (and strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries):

They are a natural anti-inflamatory. Eating this yummy fruit will protect your skin from the sun and extend the life of the skin cells. Eating berries can even help to prevent breakouts! Berries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that combine free radicals and make your skin glow as well as repair and refresh your damaged skin cells. Try eating these berries with cereal, adding to a bowl of greek yogurt, you can throw them in salads or make yourself a fresh fruit smoothie.

Grapefruit:

Want softer skin? Eat a grapefruit with your breakfast (or as a snack anytime during the day). Grapefruits contain vitamin C and lycopene which build collagen, protects the skin from the sun and yes, can fights wrinkles.

Carrots:  

Beta carotene is highly present in this veggie that absorbs the harmful sun rays. Eating carrots will give the healthy glow you long for.

Kale:

Looking to detox your skin? Eating more of this healthy green that has large amounts of vitamin C and iron will play a huge part in anti-aging. It can prevent skin damage and calm redness and irritation. It is a superfood that is also great for your eyesight and weight loss!

Nuts and Seeds (walnuts and pumpkin seeds):

Pumpkin seeds are a great way to tighten up your skin! They have tons of omega 3 fatty acids that build collagen which keep the skin firm.

Walnuts are loaded with natural fatty acids and minerals and eating just a handful a few times a week can help keep your skin feeling soft and can even out your complexion.

Salmon:

This easy to prepare fish is chock full of good fats which will firm and maintain healthy skin cells. Eating salmon helps your skin to retain water thus keeping it hydrated.

Papaya:

Did you know that eating this fruit helps prevent your skin from getting wrinkles because of it's antioxidants? Yes, it is a great tropical fruit to indulge in!  

Coconut Water:

Coconut water is extremely hydrating for the body as well as the skin. Drinking natural coconut water helps to hydrate and plump up your skin.

Cucumbers:

Did you know that the skin of the cuke contains tons of silica which is helpful in maintaining a clear complexion as well as shiny hair. You can also slice it up and place on your eyes to reduce under eye redness and puffiness! 

Yogurt:

It has tons of calcium and protein and vitamins which can prevent future wrinkles, make your skin look healthier and give yourself a natural glow.

Dark chocolate:

Cocoa holds hydrating nutrients and loaded with antioxidants known as flavonoids which fight the aging of your skin and work to make your skin brighter and clearer.

So do your body a big favor- eat healthy and drink smart and you will feel as great as you look!