Dry skin is the number one plague of this damned winter weather here in New York City. Yes, applying creams and moisturizers does help, but truthfully, your skin care starts with what you’re putting in your body.
Try incorporating these 9 foods into your diet more frequently to achieve healthy and supple skin:
Water
Water isn’t necessarily a food, but it’s definitely a necessity. The number one key to keeping your skin hydrated is to drink plenty of water. Drinking water keeps your skin in circulation, delivers nutrients to cells, plumps up skin cells, helps skin appear firmer and helps blood circulate and deliver oxygen to your muscles.
Avocado
My absolute favorite food, avocados are a great source of vitamins C, E and monosaturated fats, which help your skin, lock in moisture and promote skin’s elasticity.
Fish
Salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, anchovies and rainbow trout are all amazing for your skin. Fish contains omega-3 fats, which strengthen skin cells, help protect your skin from sun damage, protect against cancer and help reduce inflammation. Certain fishes also contain selenium, which preserves elastin in the skin, helping your skin stay supple, smooth and tight.
Orange Vegetables
Orange and yellow vegetables contain beta-carotene, which is excellent for your skin. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant, which helps you fight dry skin and protect the skin from harmful sunrays and environmental damage. Most of these vegetables also contain vitamins A and C, which help repair body tissues and produce collagen.
Spinach and Leafy Greens
Spinach and other dark, leafy greens are packed with iron, omega-4 fatty acids, and vitamins A, B, and E, which protect skin and improve your immune system. The Phytochemicals and folates help hydrate skin and keep it healthy.
Fruit
Fruit, especially water-dense tropical fruit, is a great way to hydrate and protect your skin. Most fruit contains high levels of vitamins A and C; powerful antioxidants that replenish nutrients in skin that promote collagen production and help keep your skin supple and firm.
Eggs
Eggs are high in protein, which help cell in regeneration, and contain sulfur and lutein, which promotes skin hydration and elasticity. Eggs also work to hydrate the skin through topical application; so don’t be afraid to try an egg mask by whipping egg whites until frothy and then applying to the face and neck.
Ally | Elite.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
