The condition of our skin and how it ages are influenced by a number of factors, with diet and lifestyle playing a major part. Prolonged exposure to the sun, smoking and a diet rich in processed and sugary foods, as well as dehydrators like caffeine and alcohol will, over time, take their toll.
Here is a list food that has been proven to be healthy for the skin:
1. AVOCADO
Just as it is beneficial for a healthy hair growth. Avocados help soften the skin as well as hydrate it if applied topically. You can use a moisturising mask of avocado with 1 teaspoon honey to reap the benefits of this super fruit. You’ll feel the difference instantly!
2. ORANGES
“The peel of the orange, actually contains more vitamin C than the orange itself. The peel contains antimicrobial and antibacterial properties so using it regularly in face packs will give you clear and brighter skin in no time. What’s in season will make your skin glow!”, says Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, skincare expert.
Dr. Deepali recommends a orange peel and yoghurt face pack to instantly rejuvenate your skin; all you need is 1 tablespoon of orange peel powder and 2 tablespoon of yoghurt to do the trick.
3. STRAWBERRY
Strawberries have strong astringent, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidants properties that treat burns, protect your skin from UV rays, and delay ageing. Strawberries are packed with alpha-hydroxylic acid that can help you get rid of dead skin cells. Those who have acne can use strawberries to get rid of the skin condition.
4. BEETROOT
A glass of fresh beetroot juice is all you need to glow from within. It purifies blood, by eliminating toxins and gives an instant skin glow. Apply beetroot juice regularly to clear dead skin cells from the face and to make it look soft.
5. CARROTS
Carrots are great if you suffer from dry skin because they are packed with potassium. Drink carrot juice regularly to keep your body and skin hydrated.
Foods that are bad for the skin:
Below is a list of foods to avoid and has been proven to do more harm than good, not just for the digestive system, but for the skin as well.
- Sugar Refined carbs (that’s white versions of cakes, biscuits, bread and pasta, as well as carbonated drinks), have an ageing effect on the skin. Too much sugar in the diet damages skin cells and affects collagen production. Instead, use natural sweeteners like whole, natural fruits as well as flavourful spices like cinnamon or vanilla. If you regularly use high fructose sweetners like honey and maple syrup, try to cut back – your skin will thank you for it.
- Bad fats Especially bad are trans fats, found in certain shop-bought pastries, cakes and processed ready meals. Also try and minimise saturated fat from red meat and dairy. These fats compete with the healthy omega-3 variety and slow down your circulation, reducing blood flow to the skin.
- Alcohol is an age accelerator that causes the secretion of the stress hormone, cortisol, plus alcoholic drinks often contain lots of sugar.
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