Foods that are Great for Skin Care

[ { "type": "text", "label": "Invest in antioxidants", "label_font": "b", "label_size": "h2", "content": "Antioxidants help fight free radicals, unstable molecules produced when our bodies convert food into energy, or created by pollution, radiation, and smoking. Free radicals attack healthy cells, causing damage, inflammation, and skin issues such as lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and sensitivity. Antioxidants are essential in skin care, halting free radicals in their tracks. Eating five to eight servings of colorful fruits and vegetables daily can increase antioxidant intake." }, { "type": "text", "label": "Wrinkle-fighting fruits and veggies, and other anti-aging foods", "label_font": "b", "label_size": "h2", "content": "Yellow, orange, red, and dark green foods contain large amounts of beta-carotene, a skin-essential mineral that the body converts into its own form of vitamin A, retinol. Retinol promotes the production of collagen and elastin, which hold the skin together, preventing wrinkles and sagging. Many fruits and veggies are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that stimulates collagen production, and vitamin E, which supports healthy skin cells." }, { "type": "text", "label": "Up your protein intake", "label_font": "b", "label_size": "h2", "content": "Protein is required for rebuilding and repairing every organ in our body, especially for our skin, as it helps form collagen and elastin. Co-enzyme Q10 (Co-Q10), found in some proteins, can be a great beauty boost. As we age, Co-Q10 levels drop, contributing to skin aging. Good sources of protein include lean animal proteins, seafood, nuts, beans, lentils, chickpeas, eggs, and liver." }, { "type": "text", "label": "Whole grains for regeneration", "label_font": "b", "label_size": "h2", "content": "Replace white carbohydrates with complex carbs like lentils, barley, rye, and buckwheat, which contain vital minerals for skin regeneration. Whole grains are also rich in fiber, which binds to toxins and helps eliminate them from your body, reducing liver overload. The liver is your primary organ for detoxification, so a clean liver contributes to healthier skin." }, { "type": "text", "label": "Essential fats are great for skin care", "label_font": "b", "label_size": "h2", "content": "Cut down on harmful saturated and trans-fats, but increase your intake of good fats, as they form the actual skin cells. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) keep cell walls strong, helping skin retain moisture and nutrients. Sources of EFAs include Omega 3 and Omega 6 from oily fish, such as salmon, sardines, and tuna, as well as from avocados, nuts, and seeds." }, { "type": "text", "label": "Wrinkle-fighting tea", "label_font": "b", "label_size": "h2", "content": "Green tea is a good source of catechins, plant compounds more powerful than vitamins C and E in preventing damage to body cells, with other disease-fighting properties. A study by Kingston University, London, found that white tea helps stop the breakdown of elastin and collagen, contributing to reduced cell aging and inflammation." }, { "type": "disclaimer", "content": "This article has been adapted from longer features appearing in Healthy, the Holland & Barrett magazine. Advice is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP before trying any remedies." } ]