There’s so much talk about the skincare products and procedures you can try to minimize the effects of aging on your skin and prevent new fine lines and wrinkles from forming. These are all well and good and it’s worth looking into adding or taking away a product here and there, but if you’re not addressing your diet, you aren’t doing everything you can for your health and skin.
According to health experts, these nine nutrient-rich foods can “age you backwards” and help you look “years younger.” The best part is these are common foods you’ll find in your produce, teas, fish, and even snacks aisle of your grocery store. Here’s what you need to know about incorporating these nine foods into your daily diet.
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1. Almonds
Almonds are packed with vitamin E, antioxidants and zinc. These nutrients provide an anti-inflammatory effect for skin that can reduce acne and help curb psoriasis and eczema. They’re even know for helping to hydrate the skin, and moisturized skin automatically appears smoother and more youthful.
2. Tomatoes
You can thank the antioxidant in tomatoes called Lycopene for protecting the skin against oxidative damage caused by UV rays and pollution. Tomatoes are also excellent at curbing inflammation, hydrating, and brightening your skin.
3. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a rich source of good-for-your-skin nutrients like beta carotene and vitamin C, both of which fight free radicals that can damage skin cells. Vitamin C is also a crucial vitamin that aids in collagen synthesis to help your skin produce new, healthy collagen.
4. Dark Chocolate
Yes, you can indulge in chocolate and see better skin — but dark chocolate with a cacao content of at least 70 percent is the way to go. This more bitter-tasting chocolate is packed with antioxidants and help curb inflammation and boost serotonin and endorphin levels to calm stress (and as we all know, stress is killer on your skin).
5. Blueberries
Who knew such a small berry could pack such a big punch? Blueberries are a treasure trove of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, that fight free radicals to protect cells. They’re anti-inflammatory and contain vitamin C to help build collagen, as well.
6. Kiwi
Kiwi is so rich in vitamin C, an important nutrient to create new collagen, plus it contains vitamin E to repair damaged skin and antioxidants for fighting free radicals.
7. Salmon
If hydration is what you’re after to help soothe dry skin, salmon is the one to choose for its omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, zinc, and antioxidants. This and other cold water fish are among the best foods you can eat to fight inflammation in the body, which can lead to skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
8. Avocado
Similar to salmon, avocado is like a moisturizer in a creamy delicious food. Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, both of which nourish and help hydrate the skin. It also helps repair damaged skin and contains vitamin C for collagen synthesis.
9. Green Tea
When it’s time to reach for a beverage, few compare to water for hydration and helping to flush out waste and toxins, but green tea is also one to strongly consider. Green tea is packed with antioxidants, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which can help reduce sebum production for more balanced oils in the skin and a reduction in acne. It can anti-inflammatory properties and, of course, is perfect for hydration.
