If you’re looking for ways to have radiant skin, changing your diet is the first step. Do you ever wonder how some people have smooth glowing skin all the time? The trick is diet and feeding the body right. If you fuel your body with the food it needs, it will reflect in your skin. If you have glowing skin, you know your body is in tip top shape. Dermatologist Joely Kaufman-Janette says, “The skin is the window to the entire body.” (1) To help you get started with promoting skin health through diet, here are my top five favorite foods and drinks to promote skin health. I’ve even included a bonus recipe for you to try.

Blueberries

These berries are loaded with antioxidants that help fight against free radicals and aging. The antioxidants in blueberries help promote youthful looking skin, and can be enjoyed tossed in a salad or added to a smoothie for a nutritional boost.

Healthy Fats

Our skin needs healthy fats in order to glow. Fatty fish such as salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which is essential for overall skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially helpful for anyone who suffers with dry skin.

Coconut Water

Hydration is just as important to glowing skin as the foods we put in our bodies. Without properly hydrating our bodies, our skin would become coarse, dry, and dull. Try using unsweetened coconut water in your diet to add natural electrolytes to replace any that have been lost though perspiration.

Green Tea

Green tea is great for overall health, and skin health is no exception. Just like blueberries, green tea is high in antioxidants, which can help ward off aging skin. Green tea is also great for hydration and can be used in place of coffee or black tea for added health benefits.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A, which is good for skin health. Vitamin A can also help prevent wrinkles and give your skin a more youthful glow. Instead of trying skin care products with added Vitamin A, try adding the whole food source into your diet by enjoying a baked sweet potato a few times a week. Add some coconut oil to the potato for extra absorption, and your skin will thank you for it.

Skin Health Bonus Recipe

5-Minute Guacamole

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

2 ripe organic avocados, halved and pitted

1/2 a small red onion

1 handful fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

Start by chopping the red onion and scooping out the avocado meat. Once this is done, place the chopped onion and avocado meat in a large mixing bowl.

Mash the avocado, onion, fresh cilantro, and olive oil together.

Serve with fresh veggies or gluten free pita chips.

Skin health starts from within. Feeding your body with proper nutrition shows on your skin.

Remember to nourish your body with antioxidants, stay hydrated, and include a healthy dose of fat in your everyday diet. With the right foods, you will have glowing radiant skin all year long.

Resources:

(1) http://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-and-beauty-pictures/foods-that-boost-healthy-skin.aspx