I don’t have the best skin. For some reason, I didn’t grow out of acne as I got older. Because of this, I’ve become conscious of the fact that we really are what we eat. It’s important to be mindful of what I put in my mouth if I want to be break-out free. To help minimize awkward blemishes and help with cell re-growth, I need to include certain foods in my diet. Here’s a list of my 10 favorite foods for clear skin. Keep in mind that anything with fiber and vitamins A, C and E will be great for your skin. Enjoy!
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1. Beets: Beetroot is high in vitamin A, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E. All those things are essential for skin health and rejuvenation. When you’re chopping them up, they may stain your fingers but their health benefits will help eliminate toxins from the body and aid in cell turnover (which is essential for keeping pores clear).
2. Berries: Berries such as strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries are high in antioxidants. The antioxidants and nutrients in these fruits will protect your skin cells so there is less chance for long term damage.
3. Dark Greens Veggies: Not only are greens packed with anti-inflammatory properties, they contain a ton of fiber. Fiber helps prevent blood sugar from spiking and breakouts from popping up. They’re also filled with zinc, and vitamin A and C.
4. Green Tea: Green tea contains the antioxidant catechin EGCG and it’s anti-inflammatory property has a soothing effect on your skin. Green tea also reduces your risk of skin cancer since it helps protect your cells from damaged caused by ultraviolet light.
5. Olive Oil: Healthy fats like olive oil help your skin retain moisture, thus keeping a healthy and youthful appearance.
6. Mackerel: Consuming any oily fish can do wonders for your skin, but one of the best types for clear skin is mackerel. This fish is high in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acids (EPA) which keep your skin glowing and smooth. Other options are sardines, albacore, and bluefin tuna.
7. Salmon: This fish is FILLED with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation in the body. When your skin is inflammed, your cells clog your pores, causing acne.
8. Yogurt: Yogurt contains zinc for cell growth, lactic acid for smooth skin, and calcium to heal dry patches. It’s such a healthy super food. Oh yeah, and priobotics aren’t just great for your stomach, they’re great for clear skin too!
9. Water: It’s important to stay hydrated for a healthy complexion. Drink up!
10. Whole Grains: Whole grains are filled with anti-inflammatory fiber. Their antioxidants also help stabilize your blood sugar. Just make sure to avoid white breads/pasta/rice/potatoes. The sugar in that stuff will spike your insulin levels and cause breakouts. Basically just make sure that the whole grains you pick up is high in fiber and low in sugar.
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**Most of these food pictures were found on the internet…I made the awesome intro graphic!**
4 comments
Blanca says:
Jan 18, 2014
Yes, I agree that is essential to eat healthy and certain types of food to enjoy clear skin and be free of blemishes. I incorporate many of the foods you mention on my diet and my skin looks great. I especially enjoy oily fish and olive oil but I also like to eat avocados and nuts.
Stephen says:
Jan 18, 2014
Hi Blanca. Avocados and nuts help provide healthy fats that our skin needs to be blemish free. Thanks for adding to the list! :)
Candy Terrell says:
Jan 18, 2014
If you eat high quantities of processed foods, sugar, caffeine, and fried foods, chances are, your skin is not going to be looking its most radiant. But, loading up on fruits and veggies, whole grains, and vitamin-rich foods makes for a healthy body and, in turn, healthier, more radiant skin.
Stephen says:
Jan 18, 2014
You’re completely right, Candy. Everything is connected.