A diet rich in vitamins and minerals may help take years off your skin -- or at least give that appearance. The natural aging process wreaks havoc on the skin by decreasing elasticity and subcutaneous fat deposits as well as altering pigmentation. These processes lead to the development of wrinkles, age spots and sagging skin. A healthy diet may help combat these effects.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are essential to a healthy body. These nutrients are widely available and come from plant and animal sources. Vitamins work at the cellular level to help decrease inflammation, increase blood supply to the skin and impact elasticity. Just like the brain or stomach, the skin is a vital organ that requires nutrients to repair and maintain its structure. Vitamins A, B-3, C and E are known to impact skin health from the inside out, according to MayoClinic.com. Minerals such as zinc may help acne sufferers by reducing inflammation and outbreaks.
Antioxidant Power
The antioxidant vitamins like C and E play a pivotal role in skin keeping that healthy glow. At any given time, the body is attacked by little carcinogens called free radicals. Even in the skin, free radicals damage the basic cellular structure. Antioxidants are compounds that bind to and remove these free radicals from the body. Research prevails that diets including these antioxidant vitamins can help combat the effects of acne; however, only 1 percent will get to the outer layer of skin. Topical vitamin applications in creams or oils can boost the antioxidants on the surface and protect skin for up to four days following application.
Sources
Although vitamins are prevalent in bottles on the grocer's shelves, the best way to consume them is in their natural state. Berries and nuts provide the antioxidant vitamins. Consuming proteins, minerals and fiber along with the vitamins will flush the toxins from the skin and provide healing nutrients for new skin cells. Incorporate fruits and vegetables with each meal and try a variety of these healthy foods to obtain the full range of vitamins.
Other Considerations
Vitamins alone cannot reverse or stop those wrinkles from forming. You may find ways to protect your skin and minimize signs of aging while starting a healthier, vitamin-rich diet. Taking long, hot soaks in the tub will rob your skin of essential moisture -- slather on the lotion after showers and keep the bathwater tepid. Ultraviolet, or UV radiation from the sun is both good and bad for the skin. Although UV radiation stimulates vitamin D production within the body, too much exposure can lead to skin cancer and age spots.
