Best Foods for Healthy Skin
Healthy, glowing skin isn't just about skin care products and treatments—what you eat plays a vital role. Incorporating certain nutrient-rich foods can help improve skin hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance.
As you prep your weekly menus, consider incorporating some of these healthy skin foods.
- 1. Foods rich in Zinc
Turkey, pumpkin seeds, lentils, and chickpeas contain zinc, which can help reduce inflammation and promote collagen production. [1] [2] [3]
- 2. Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Apples, greens, pumpkins, strawberries, and blueberries are filled with vitamins C and E, which can help protect skin from environmental damage and signs of aging. [4] [5]
- 3. Beta-Carotenes
Sweet potatoes, carrots, and dark leafy greens contain beta-carotene, which can act as a natural sunblock. They are also rich in vitamin C, which is important for healthy skin. [6] [7]
- 4. Silicon
Green beans contain easily absorbed silicon, which helps with the formation of healthy connective tissues, strengthens nails and boosts skin health. [8]
- 5. Hydrating Foods
Fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, oranges, lettuce, and watermelon are high in water content that can help keep you hydrated.[9]
Foods to avoid
Processed foods and foods containing refined sugars should be enjoyed in moderation to avoid causing inflammation and breakouts. [10]
By nourishing your body with these skin-friendly foods, you’re giving your skin the tools it needs to stay radiant, hydrated, and resilient. Remember, glowing skin starts from within, so make your meals a reflection of the care you want for your complexion.
Sources
[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen
[2] https://www.forbes.com/health/nutrition/foods-high-in-zinc/
[3] https://www.webmd.com/diet/foods-high-in-zinc
[4] https://blog.nasm.org/fitness/bite-apple-seasons-favorite-functional-food-bigger-stronger-muscles
[5] https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2023/10/06/pumpkin-packs-a-superfood-punch
[6] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/sweet-potatoes#vitamins-minerals
[7] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/beta-carotene
[8] https://sites.udel.edu/canr-newsflash/healthy-vegetables-and-fruits-we-should-all-eat/
[9] https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/15-food-that-help-you-stay-hydrated
[10] https://www.psdermgroup.com/2023/12/04/the-top-ten-foods-that-cause-acne-according-to-phoenix-surgical-dermatology-group/