How to have Healthy Skin

Foods, genetics, aging, hormones, and conditions such as diabetes, unhealthful diet, stress, a lack of sleep, not enough exercise, dehydration, smoking, and particular medications can all impact the skin health. The following are some acknowledged skin healthy foods by research.

Co-enzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that protects the cells in your body from damage. Oral supplementation of co-enzyme Q10 may reduce wrinkle severity, according to a 2004 study performed by Functional Food Research Labs.

Tomatoes/red and yellow bell peppers/sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene which have been shown to protect the skin against damage from the sun and may also help prevent wrinkling.

Cocoa flavanols found in dark chocolate may improve the structure and function of skin. Scientists discovered a decrease in roughness on skin, with better skin hydration.

Omega-3 found in oily fish, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds or oils such as linseed oil and corn oil may prevent dryness and scaling of the skin. Some studies have found that fish oil supplements may help fight inflammatory and autoimmune conditions affecting the skin, such as psoriasis.

Seeds such as sunflower seeds are an excellent source of linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fat, vitamin E, selenium, and zinc which help your skin stay thick, flexible, and moisturized.

Other good-for-the skin antioxidants include:

  • Pomegranates
  • Acai berries
  • Goji berries
  • Spinach/avocadoes
  • Raspberries/blueberries
  • Nuts/walnuts/almonds
  • Seeds
  • Purple grapes
  • Dark chocolate (70 percent or higher of cocoa content)
  • Organic green tea
  • Olive oils

(Written by: Nathalie Djabrayan, licensed clinical dietitian at Djabrayan Chiropractic Care & Diet Center)