Vitamins for Soft Skin

Vitamins for Soft Skin
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The skin is the largest organ and helps protect the body from damage. It can also play a significant role in a person's physical appearance. Numerous factors can interfere with skin's softness, including dehydration, poor diet and acne. In addition to proper hygiene and lifestyle habits, certain vitamins may help promote soft, smooth skin, according to the American Skin Association. The American Dietetic Association suggests a nutrient-rich diet as the optimum means of attaining necessary nutrients.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin known for its potent antioxidant, or disease-fighting, benefits. Vitamin C also helps the body produce collagen--proteins needed for smooth, supple skin. Vitamin C is present in a variety of healthy foods, including red bell peppers, strawberries, citrus fruits, citrus juices, tomatoes, tomato juice, papaya, kiwifruit, baked potatoes with skin, Brussels sprouts and broccoli. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, eating five servings of fruits and vegetables daily can supply more than 200mg of vitamin C--an amount that surpasses adults' daily recommended allowance, or RDA.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A refers to a group of nutrient compounds that support bone growth, reproduction, immune system strength and healthy linings of the eyes and numerous internal organs. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, vitamin A provides properties similar to those provided by retinoid drugs--medications prescribed to treat acne. Valuable food sources of vitamin A include carrot juice, carrots, kale, cantaloupe, spinach, sweet potatoes, apricots, papaya, winter squash, bell peppers and mangoes. Since excessive consumption of vitamin A in supplement-form may cause toxic effects, doctor's guidance is vital prior to their use.

B-Vitamins

B-vitamins are water-soluble nutrients that contribute to numerous important body functions. According to the American Skin Association, B vitamins riboflavin, niacin and vitamin B6 can help prevent skin disorders, including conditions that occur on the mouth and nose, conditions caused by sun exposure and those that cause cracks in the mouth area. Valuable food sources of B vitamins include whole grains, meat, poultry, tuna, potatoes, bananas, legumes, chili peppers, brewer's yeast, nutritional yeast and molasses. Though sufficient amounts of B vitamins can be reaped from a healthy diet, doctors may prescribe vitamin B12 supplements for people with malabsorption problems and those who do not consume animal-derived products, since vitamin B12 is primarily found in meat, poultry and fish.

References

Article reviewed by Jenna Marie Last updated on: Aug 11, 2011

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