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The saying “you are what you eat” rings true, especially when it comes to aging. Your diet is a big player in how you feel, but it manifests on the outside as well. Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it serves as a sort of road map to what’s happening on the inside. When you eat balanced meals rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, your body rewards you with a glowing complexion. Although serums, supplements, and creams are an investment in anti-aging, what you put into your body is the true investment that will reduce the effects of time and gravity. What are some foods you can eat that your skin will reward you for, and what foods should you avoid?
According to Lisa Young, PhD, RDN, a nutritionist and author of Finally Full, Finally Slim, it’s best to focus on eating the rainbow. “Foods that have the most anti-aging properties are colorful fruits and vegetables,” she says, “They contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that keep you--and your skin--healthy.” Phytochemicals are nutrient-like substances found in plants. Beyond nourishing your skin, they can help reduce the risk of diseases that are often spurred by aging, such as cancer, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
Antioxidants work on an internal level as well to reduce cell damage and inhibit free radicals, which gives your skin a healthy glow. Making sure you get lots of fruits and vegetables is the best way to make sure you’re getting adequate antioxidants and phytochemicals. Making simple changes like eating a serving of veggies with every meal, or sneaking them into protein smoothies, is a great start.
Also important to note is what foods you should avoid that may speed up the aging process. “Some of the worst for anti-aging are ultra processed foods including sugar drinks, cakes, potato chips, and processed meats or cold cuts.” Young says, “These foods are inflammatory and can age your skin. They are also devoid of nutrients.”
Although you should focus on what you can add to maximize health, knowing the risks of certain foods is important to take into account when deciding what you should cut back on.
Skincare regimens can only go so far. While it is important to take care of your skin by washing your face and staying moisturized, the true healing work comes from within. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding extra sugar and ultra-processed foods, and staying hydrated are all long term investments in your long term internal health, ones your skin will thank you for.
