When it comes to choosing foods that can help tighten sagging skin and make you look younger and healthier, these four anti-inflammatory fruits are at the top of the list. Each contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that will help promote elasticity in the skin and banish signs of aging like fine lines and uneven skin tone.
Does it hurt that all of these fruits just so happen to be sweet and delicious? Not one bit.
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Avocado
Rich in a variety of antioxidants, as well as vitamin E, C, and monosaturated fat, avocado is one of the best fruits for helping to main moisture in the epidermal layer of the skin for a softer, smoother complexion. But its benefits go beyond hydration — avocado helps combat aging free radicals that result from environmental factors like pollution. The healthier your skin's cells, the more effective they are at producing collagen and elastin, both of which keep skin from sagging.
Berries
All berries — from blueberries and raspberries to blackberries, goji, and strawberries — contain a wealth of antioxidants that kill free radicals and increase collagen and elastin levels. Just a handful of berries each day (on oatmeal, in pancakes, or solo) can boost your skin's hydration in incredible ways.
Pineapple
Pineapple is a miracle fruit — both as a food and when used topically as a skincare treatment. Eating pineapple increases the moisture levels in your skin and provides inflammation-fighting bromelain. But when used as a serum or in a mask, pineapple tightens skin and can prevent sag.
Tomatoes
As much as we love how the sun feels on our skin, its UVA and UVB rays are responsible for a lot of skin damage — including saggy skin. Tomatoes are full of a phytochemical called lycopene, which actually protects skin against UV damage and can prevent signs of aging. Interestingly, your body will better absorb lycopene from tomatoes that have been cooked or processed — bring on the pasta with fresh tomato sauce.