All of the great skincare products in the world can’t come close to a diet rich in the right nutrients that can nourish your skin. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and antioxidants like vitamins C and E, such as citrus, can help boost your collagen and skin hydration levels and keep your skin youthful looking and smooth. A great serum or moisturizer can only enhance the positive effects you’re getting from a great diet.
But don’t disregard the importance of pushing away certain foods or keeping them to a minimum for the sake of younger-looking skin. Skin Expert Chris Gibson outlines the worst — and a few of the best — foods for your skin.
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Refined Sugar and Processed Foods
Too much refined sugar leads to an oxidation process in the body that depletes collages levels and actually “melts away” collagen deep in the skin and can lead to sagging skin, Gibon says.
Processed foods can also cause inflammation in the skin and cause damage to your collagen, as well as make acne worse.
Dairy
Dairy can be a big problem because commercially produced dairy often contains hormones that interrupt with your own hormone production, according to Gibson, and this can trigger acne. Many people don’t tolerate dairy well (even if it seems like they do), and in these cases dairy can wreak havoc on the digestion system. It can be difficult to give up milk, yogurt, and ice-cream, but if you suspect they are responsible for your skin issues, they’re worth giving the boot to — if only to test whether their absence can make you skin look better.
Add To Your Diet: Avocado
Avocados contain natural oils that keep your skin moisturized. These anti-inflammatory fruits are rich in vitamin E and healthy fats — they can improve skin elasticity and help prevent skin damage from UV rays. Add a few slices of avocado in your salad, sandwich, or even your soup to gain the benefits of this delicious, creamy food.
Add To Your Diet: Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin C, which can repair and boost collagen. They also contain vitamin A, which can prevent dryness, wrinkles, and even sun damage. They’re also a good source of fiber and can promote bowel regularity, which is yet another link they have to healthy skin.
