Hey, we all know that eating a nutritious diet is important for weight loss and general health, but did you also know that certain healthy foods are fantastic for increasing and promoting beauty? Skin, nails, and hair are all affected by what you eat. We’ve rounded up five foods scientifically proven to have a positive effect on your outer appearance. There’s no substitute for plenty of sleep, water, and exercise, but adding some or all of the following to your meals is a great way to boost that inner glow! Ready. Set. Selfie time!
Papaya
Next time you feel like pampering yourself grab a papaya. Not only are these tropical fruits superstars in terms of their nutritional benefits but they can also be used to create a killer face mask that will leave your skin glowing.. A papaya’s bright orange flesh is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as a skin softening enzyme called papain. Want to see it in action? Mash up a ripe papaya and mix with a small amount of honey and spread it on your face or body and allow to sit for 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and get ready to show off some fabulously soft skin.
Avocado
Avocados are so much more than an essential guacamole ingredient or a topping for toast. They are full of healthy fats and antioxidants that help create and preserve youthful looking skin. Regularly eating avocados contributes to a glowing complexion and can also soothe and prevent breakouts, although those prone to eczema should avoid avocado as it can lead to an increase in redness and irritation. Have an avocado that’s past its prime? Mash it up and mix with olive oil for a hair mask that will leave your locks shiny and soft.
Blueberries
Blueberries have been cropping up as a trendy ingredient in high end skin care products and with very good reason. The intense blue colour of these berries comes from the antioxidants called anthocyanins which are so powerful they can help protect your skin from free radicals that contribute to skin damage. Consider adding a generous handful to your next smoothie or bowl of oatmeal to reap these rewards, not only will you be getting the benefits of these potent antioxidants you’ll also be consuming high doses of skin-boosting vitamin C which is important for collagen production.
Tomatoes
A single medium-sized tomato contains more than half of the recommended daily value of vitamin C as well as impressive amounts of vitamins A, and K, all nutrients that have been shown to contribute to healthy and vibrant looking skin. What really makes tomatoes shine is the fact that they contain an impressive antioxidant called lycopene that helps flush damaging free radicals out of the body. The combining nutritional factors of eating a tomato a day can lead to beautiful skin that is more resistant to aging as well as acne.
Wild salmon
Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and selenium, wild salmon is one of the best beautifying foods that you can eat. Whether you like it grilled, baked or poached the nutrients in wild salmon can improve skin conditions ranging from clogged pores to fine lines and wrinkles. Regularly eating wild salmon gives dull hair fantastic shine, as well as protection from sun damage.