13 Superfoods to Maintain Healthy Skin

Posted on 10 Apr, 2015

As beauty products get more high-tech and miracle makeup advances, it seems that the majority of us are going to great lengths and expenses in order to maintain youthful, healthy skin. But what some people may not know is that the top complexion cures can actually come from certain foods from your local supermarket. With that in mind, here are a list of top foods that are sure to minimise acne, fight crow’s feet and leave you with flawless, beautiful skin for longer. 13 Superfoods to Maintain Healthy Skin

1.     Chocolate

This might seem surprising but cocoa actually hydrates your skin. Dark chocolate especially contains high levels of flavonols, which is a potent type of antioxidant.  It’s suggested that a couple of squares a day are enough to improve luminosity and reduce skin puffiness.

2.     Greek Yogurt

The protein in which you get from eating yoghurt, especially Greek yoghurt, helps the skin to become firmer. It is recommended that you eat a single serving daily for softer, smoother skin.

3.     Pomegranates

Pomegranates are packed with polyphenol antioxidants, which regulates the skin’s blood flow and increases rosiness. One pomegranate or a few glasses per day should do the trick and even when applied to the skin, the fruit’s antioxidants help to smooth out lines and moisturise.

4.     Walnuts

Walnuts contain omega-3 essential fatty acids and are also loaded with copper. This is a mineral that boosts collagen production and helps to improve your complexion’s texture.

5.     Peppers

Eating peppers might just do the trick if you’re eager to beat crow’s feet. Studies have shown that women who eat green and yellow vegetables regularly tend to have fewer wrinkles. In addition, carotenoids – the antioxidants in yellow and orange veggies – can decrease skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

6.     Sunflower Seeds

Eating a handful of sunflower seeds daily can help keep your skin supple by protecting its top layers from the sun. They are packed with vitamin E and are a highly essential fatty-acid making them an ideal treatment for parched body parts such as lips and heels when applied.

7.     Kidney Beans

Because kidney beans are high in zinc, it has been said that there is a high correlation between blemishes and low zinc levels. Have a four-ounce serving to help you stay clear of zits.

8.     Soy

Soy contains minerals and proteins that have been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation, so drinking one latte with soy milk a day may help to reduce blemishes and give you a clearer skin complexion.

9.     Oatmeal

Steel-cut oatmeal is less processed than other varieties so it retains more vitamins. It also helps to keep your blood sugar stable, which is important because spiked blood elevates your body’s level of androgens and can cause wrinkles.

10. Green Tea

Green tea is extremely high in antioxidants, which has proved to reduce redness and is a great way to beat inflammation. Sip at least one cup a day to achieve maximum results.

11.Blueberries

The antioxidants in blueberries help protect you from premature ageing so try adding half a cup to your yoghurt or cereal to maintain a youthful glow.

12. Wild Salmon

Wild salmon (not farm-raised) is one of the best foods for omega-3 fatty acids. It helps keep your skin moisturised and is even good for your bones and teeth. This is a key food to have in your fridge because it is so versatile. You can have it smoked, grilled and even baked into pasta and salad dishes.

13. Spinach

Spinach is full of lutein, which keeps your eyes healthy and sparkling. It’s also a good source of vitamins B, C and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

If this has got you interested in foods to keep you healthy and you want to explore other ways in which you can improve your skin, click here for more information.