8 Thing You must Know about your Skin

Balanced diet is good for overall skin health, but there is a lack of scientific evidence to show that certain foods specifically prevent wrinkles, acne or other skin problems. The food we eat can help increase the quality and look of our skin, making it glow from the inside out. There are some nutrients which literally ‘feed’ the skin and when consumed as part of a healthy, balanced diet will support the skin structure so that it functions efficiently and looks its best.

Here are some of the best foods for healthy skin.

• Beta carotene, which can be found in foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots, kale and spinach, can be converted by the liver into vitamin A.
• Good sources of vitamin C can be found in fruits and vegetables such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, strawberries, green peppers and kiwi fruits. Vitamin C, alongside vitamins A and E, work to disarm harmful molecules known as ‘free radicals’ which can speed up the ageing process by making skin less supple.
• Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that reduces the effects of sun exposure on the skin, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, can help prevent the appearance of age spots and helps maintain the skin’s oil balance during the cleansing process. Rich sources include almonds, avocado, nuts, seeds, cold pressed oils, brown rice and dark green leafy vegetables.
• Brightly coloured fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants which help protect the skin from cell damage.
• Omega 6 fatty acids will promote healthy skin membranes. Good sources of omega 6 are sunflower and pumpkin seeds, flaxseed and sunflower oils or corn oil.
• Zinc can help with conditions of the skin such as cold sores and can act as a natural sun-screen by blocking out the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Zinc can be found in pulses and wholegrain foods.
• Aloe vera is good for all types of skin.
• Green tea is rich in antioxidants which can protect cell membranes and prevent inflammation in the body. The tea is high in polyphenols, compounds which neutralise harmful free radicals and protect the skin from UV light which in excess is a cause of skin cancer. Green tea also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals all valuable to the body and skin.