Foods for Healthy, Glowing Skin

Foods for Healthy, Glowing Skin
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Billions of dollars are spent annually to buy products that help keep skin looking and feeling healthy, notes the Discovery Health website. The problem is that healthy, glowing skin is not dependent simply on beauty products, but also on your regular diet. For example, alcohol and caffeine can make your skin age more quickly, while several foods can increase skin health.

Water

Increasing water intake is important to achieve healthy, glowing skin. Natural News website reports that increased water intake helps the body maintain cell hydration. A person who is hydrated will sweat more, which helps keep skin clear. Drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water per day. Boost your water intake if you engage in physical activity or live in a warmer climate. Don't wait to drink water until you are thirsty; the feeling of thirst means you are already dehydrated.

Omega-3-Rich Foods

Foods that contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids can help keep the skin stay healthy. Discovery Health website reports that omega-3 fatty acids help reduce dryness of the skin and inflammation, which cause skin to age faster. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including flaxseed, walnuts and fatty fish like salmon and halibut.

Yellow, Orange and Red Foods

Many yellow, orange and red fruits and vegetables contain high amounts of beta-carotene, which can increase skin health. According to JoyBauer.com, foods rich in beta-carotene help keep skin protected from damage caused by the sun, because they promote tissue growth and repair. Choose fruits and vegetables with high beta-carotene content, such as carrots, red and orange peppers, sweet potatoes and pumpkin.

Vitamin C Foods

Vitamin C is important for producing collagen, which helps skin remain structured and tight, reports Discovery Health. Many foods contain high amounts of vitamin C, among them citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits. Other fruits and vegetables supply vitamin C as well, including bell peppers, cherries, fruit juices and tomatoes.

Blueberries

Often referred to as a super food because of their dense amount of nutrients and low calorie count, blueberries maintain skin health. Natural News reports that blueberries contain significant amounts of antioxidants that help prevent skin damage. Blueberries are high in vitamin C and E, which are also beneficial to the skin.

References

Article reviewed by Paula Martinac Last updated on: Oct 15, 2010

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