Left: Sheetal Rawal, scientist (human genetics) & founder of Apsara Skin Care
By: Alex Raffanti
“They” say you are what you eat. What does this mean? Well, what you eat will affect your skin’s health. Many people notice skin issues and automatically go to external resources: serums, moisturizers, oils, etc. In reality, it is very important to take an internal approach as well when dealing with skin problems. Here are some foods that benefit the skin’s health:
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains an extremely potent antioxidant, flavonol, which is believed to replenish rough skin and protect against sun damage. Antioxidants are known to keep in check the free radical damage caused by the sun’s UV rays. Free radicals also result from our exposure to smog, cigarette smoke, unhealthy foods etc. Make sure that the dark chocolate has at least 70% cocoa to get the maximum benefits.
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Green Tea
Green tea is another good source of antioxidants such as polyphenols and catechins. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation, which is responsible for a lot of skin conditions like acne, wrinkles, and skin discoloration. This is why you can use green tea to reduce the effects of aging.
Kidney Beans
Kidney beans are a high source of zinc, which has been known to accelerate the process of apoptosis. Apoptosis is the process of cell death. This is an important part of the skin’s renewal process. When apoptosis is delayed, the cells can congest the pores. Research has shown that over 31% of the world’s population has low zinc levels. Because the connection to zinc and apoptosis is known to be extremely strong, try eating some kidney beans if acne or congestion of skin is an issue for you.
If you want to learn a kidney bean-remedy you can use on your face, watch this video to learn how you can use this food to get firm, glowing skin. Enjoy and please subscribe to my YouTube channel!
Walnuts
Walnuts are a high source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which have several benefits. They are known to strengthen the membranes of your skin. This ensures that moisture and nutrients are locked in. It also forms a sort of shield against toxins that can damage skin cells. Omega-3 is also believed to reduce skin inflammation and protect skin against UV rays and sun damage. These nuts contain copper, which is known to improve collagen production. A few other nuts known to have high sources of omega-3 are butternuts, brazil nuts, cashews, and hazelnuts. Although these nuts are high in omega-3 they do not compare to the high quantities in walnuts and butternuts.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds have a high source of vitamin E which is extremely beneficial to the skin. First off, it is an antioxidant which helps fight against free-radical damage. These seeds also contain beta-carotene which is known to help your skin become less sensitive to the sun. The fatty acids of the seeds have antibacterial properties which are great for combating bacteria linked to acne. Sunflower oil contains linoleic acid which helps create a barrier for your skin and keeps moisture in. Sunflower seeds have also been known to help soothe eczema and dermatitis. Applying a few drops of sunflower oil to your skin every day is a very good idea.
It is fair to say that one cannot expect flawless skin if one’s diet is not balanced or if the intake of ready-made, processed, or non-organic foods are high. Internal well-being is very clearly reflected in the appearance of one’s skin. Good diet, low stress, and a very good natural skin care routine equal skin that can put a light bulb to shame!
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Go natural. It is good karma!