If you’re after a quick fix that will eliminate your beauty routine then you are going to be disappointed! It’s no surprise to learn that there’s not a single food alone that will prevent wrinkles and ageing, but introducing a predominately organic plant-based diet rich in colourful phytonutrients, healthy fats and collagen-building proteins will help to keep skin beautifully and naturally nourished from the inside-out.
Skin is a reflection of what is going on inside the body, plus a combination of genetic inheritance, hormones and lifestyle. The way in which you ‘feed your skin’ really does have a fundamental part to play in the ageing process.
Naturopathic Nutrition Coach and founder of Eat, Nourish + Glow, Jessica Shand, has put together a list of essential skin-feeding foods that when eaten regularly and as part of a balanced and varied healthy diet will work to boost skin, support your digestive system and keep you looking as glowingly youthful as possible.
Walnuts – Nuts benefit the skin thanks to high content of healthy fat. Walnuts are especially skin strengthening being one of the richest plant sources of omega-3.
Kefir – This protein rich fermented milk ingredient has a high concentration of bacteria, yeasts and is full of skin loving amino acids. It promotes a healthy balance of gut flora and can heal any overgrowth of ‘bad bacteria’, resulting in a positive (and in some cases dramatic) impact on the look and quality of the skin.
Puy Lentis– A powerhouse of anti-ageing vitamins and minerals. Puy lentils are also great for their slow release energy and to keep blood sugar levels at bay to prevent insulin spikes that will almost certainly create havoc for your skin!
Tomatoes – Loaded with antioxidant lycopene tomatoes (especially when cooked) will create an external beauty barrier against free radicals, sun, inflammation, stress and pollution.
Broccoli – The high levels of vitamin K found in broccoli help boost circulation, strengthen capillaries and fight those pesky dark circles. Broccoli also contains vitamin C, A, folate, calcium and fibre, a true beauty-feeding cocktail!
Avocado – An internal moisturiser, avocados are full of monounsaturated fats which moisturise the skin from the inside and provide the skin with fibre and vitamin E to protect against UV damage and help keep skin elastic and strong
Aubergine – The dark colour of this vegetable indicates the high level of antioxidant and phytochemical anthocyanin (also found in blueberries, plums, cranberries and blackcurrants) which helps fight against ageing free-radicals whilst the flesh being high in dietary fibre and vitamin B which contributes to radiant skin
Kiwi – Super rich in skin brightening vitamin C, kiwi fruit will aid growth and repair of tissues through collagen production.
