5 Healthy Foods for Glowing, Clear Skin

There are many factors that affect the conditions of your skin, such as lifestyle habits (e.g. smoking), the climate in which you live in (e.g. living in a heavily polluted city), or just simply good old-fashioned genetics. While these are often the common causes of good or bad skin, one thing that a lot of people ignore are their diets.

Sure, you can fork out a fortune on the best skincare products on the market, but if your insides are crippled by processed, junk food then these products will only offer a subpar and temporary topical fix. Maintaining a healthy complexion - one that is hydrated and blemish-free - starts from within. The right diet can arm you with the tools to strengthen and build healthy tissues that can fight inflammation, signs of aging, and other typical skin issues.

Here 5 healthy foods to start you off on your journey to healthy skin!

CARROTS

Carrots have long been touted as one of the healthiest foods you can eat for your skin and eyes. They’re great for improving vision but, namely, clearing up breakouts. This is because carrots are full of beta-carotene and vitamin A, an antioxidant that helps lower the overproduction of cells in the skin’s external layer.

This is helpful as it leads to less dead skin cells that would otherwise come in contact with sebum and clog pores. Less clogging of pores means less blemishes to fix.

TURMERIC

The wonders of the ancient dried spice that is turmeric are endless. Not only is turmeric known to defend against cancer and lower bodily pains, but it is also extremely good at protecting one’s skin. This is because turmeric is full of an active antioxidant called curcumin.

Research has shown curcumin to be one of the most effective anti-inflammatory choices out there and through turmeric you can digest this in a natural and safe way. Turmeric is also often used to help fade away old acne scars and blemishes, leading to a more youthful, even skin tone. Tip: combine turmeric and honey together for an inexpensive at-home healing facial mask!

SALMON

Salmon is often known for being a great and delicious protein source. But did you know that it is widely known as a source of anti-inflammatory omega-3s? Or that it contains dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), an organic compound that promotes healthy skin due to its ability to protect the strength of cell membranes?

As such, consuming salmon will help strengthen one’s cell membranes which is important in the fight against early aging and wrinkle formations. DMAE is also known for working with B vitamins in our body that helps increase levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for improved muscle functioning, leading to firmer looking skin.

AVOCADO

Avocado is regarded as one of the best foods for anti-aging. This popular and delicious fruit is loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids, which have been proven to keep the skin hydrated while also protecting it from further aging caused by exposure to UV radiation.

Avocado is also a good source of healthy fats that help protect skin from sun damage while also keeping the skin elastic and supple. Keep eating those Instagram-worthy avocado toasts and watch your skin glow!

BLUEBERRIES

Blueberries are one of Earth’s greatest glories. Not only is it known as a superfood, but blueberries are brimming with antioxidants that fight skin-aging free radicals. In addition to this, they’re also full of anthocyanins: phytonutrients - the very thing that gives blueberries their beautiful blue color – which helps strengthen collagen fibers.

The joy doesn’t end there. Blueberries are also a wonderful source of prebiotics. Prebiotic foods help clear up your gut, which can heal your immune system while also reducing inflamed skin conditions. With so many incredible benefits for the skin’s health, blueberries should always be a staple in your groceries list!

Next Up, 5 Superfoods For A Better Sleep