Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is recommended by numerous medical experts. Eating a variety of different vegetables and fruits on a regular basis will provide the body with the many vitamins and minerals it needs to be healthy. Certain vitamins and minerals are specific to hair and skin health -- vitamins A, C, zinc -- to name a few. Eating foods rich in these vitamins and minerals may improve the health of skin and hair.
Carrots, Pumpkins and Sweet Potatoes
Vitamin A is known for its role in the health of your teeth, soft tissue, mucous membranes, vision and skin. Vitamin A is found in animal and dairy products, while carotenoids are antioxidants found in the dark-colored vegetables and fruits that can turn into vitamin A. Carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, spinach, grapefruit, apricots and broccoli all have healthy levels of beta carotene, a particular form of carotenoid. Beta-carotene, as an antioxidant, helps to protect the body against free radicals, which play a part in the process of aging and in some chronic diseases.
Citrus Fruits
Vitamin C is essential for the formation, growth and repair of bones, skin and connective tissue. Citrus fruit, cantaloupe, strawberries, broccoli, cabbage, sweet red peppers and kiwi are good sources of vitamin C. Eating a variety of these vegetables and fruits will provide healthy levels of many vitamins, including vitamin C.
Beans
Zinc is a mineral that is found in the bones, teeth, hair, skin, muscles and other areas. The body relies on zinc for the health of both the hair and the skin. Zinc can be found in beans, chick peas, peas and kidney beans.
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