It may be tempting to turn to cosmetic, store-bought remedies to improve skin health simply because they are so widely available and openly advertised. However, natural alternatives to achieving glowing, hydrated and fresh skin are a far superior solution. According to experts, it all boils down to your dietary habits. What you eat not only affects your physical fitness, mental health, and emotional well-being, it also has a significant effect on how beautiful and radiant your skin is. Team HTV has singled out the essential dietary tips that you should keep in mind as you plan out your dietary schedule for the coming few weeks
Foods With Vitamin C
Vitamin C is widely credited for fortifying the immune system, but did you know that it is also very important for that radiant skin you covet? Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, papaya, broccoli, and sweet potatoes. This compound helps to eliminate blemishes and increases collagen production which is important to prevent skin ageing.
Foods With Vitamin E
Instead of turning to skincare lotions and creams that claim to provide adequate vitamin E for beautiful skin, why not stock up on some almonds, hazelnuts, spinach and sweet potatoes? With natural foods you can be certain that you will achieve the desired result without any extra expenses or the risk of side-effects. Vitamin E protects your skin from damage and wear and tear. It stimulates and facilitates the process of skin repair.
Foods With Selenium
Though not as widely known as Vitamin C and Vitamin E, selenium also plays a vital role in maintaining and improving skin health. When paired with vitamin E and Vitamin C, selenium works as a powerful agent against disease causing elements. It is especially recognized for its role in reducing the risk of skin cancer, age-related spots, and damage caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s harmful rays. Good sources of selenium include broccoli, tomatoes, fish and eggs.
Foods With Healthy Fats
Not all fats cause obesity, diabetes and a plethora of other frightening diseases. Some fats are healthy and are needed by the body to function optimally (Read: Not all fats are bad for you). Essential fatty acids, such as those contained in fish, nuts, seeds, avocados, and walnuts keep the skin moisturized, and prevent against skin damage.
Avoid Extreme Diets
Crash dieting is an unhealthy way to lose weight not only because it exposes the body to an artificial state of starvation, but also because it has damaging effects on the skin. Following extreme diets can lead to stretch marks, wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity. Stick to well-balanced diet plans, consistent meal timings, and a regular dose of exercise to lose weight in a healthy way. (Read: Do you know how to prepare a healthy plate of food?)
The Takeaway
Apart from the incorporation of these foods into your regular diet, ensure that you continue to consume ample water. Your skin needs water to stay hydrated and fresh. You could also consume water-rich foods such as cucumbers and watermelon to get your daily dose. Turning to natural sources for your health and beauty needs will give you a long-lasting solution instead of a temporary, side-effect riddled one. Make the right choice not only for the sake of your overall health, but also to provide your skin with superior nourishment.