All of the makeup in the world can’t compete with naturally healthy, glowing skin. I, myself, swear by lipstick and am amounting quite a superfluous stash. However, true and lasting beauty starts with what we put in our bodies, not what we put on them. Take this list on your next grocery store run and stock up on superfoods for youthful skin, sparkling eyes, healthy hair and more. And don’t use your college budget as an excuse—processed, packaged foods are often more expensive than produce!
1) Blueberries—This fruit may be small in size, but it packs a powerful punch. Blueberries are among the fruits with high antioxidant levels. Antioxidants help your skin ward off the damaging effects of free radicals—the toxic molecules produced by pollution, UV rays, cigarette smoke and even your favorite cocktail. The antioxidants in blueberries deliver nutrients and moisture to the skin, keeping it smooth and youthful. Many beauty companies boast antioxidants as ingredients in their magic potions, so why not just add them to your diet.
2) Walnuts—Walnuts are an easy go-to snack and tasty addition to many meals. A ¼ cup serving of this tree nut contains nearly 95% of your daily value of omega-3 fatty acids, which help regulate the skin’s oil production and, like antioxidants, defend against free radicals. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s restore moisture to dry skin, luster to dull hair and even have the power to ease skin conditions like eczema and rosacea. Add a handful to oatmeal, yogurt, and mixed-green salads or grab a few on-the-go to nourish your skin.
3) Beef—This food may seem to be an unlikely member of the list, but thanks to its high levels of zinc, it has numerous skin benefits. Zinc helps control the skin’s production of oil and also aids in quick skin cell regeneration. This can mean less acne and quicker repair of damaged skin cells. Just be sure to choose lean beef and consume in moderation to keep saturated fat and cholesterol levels in check.
4) Carrots—This veggie peaked in elementary school when mom threw it into the brown-bag lunch for good measure, but it’s time to pick it back up. Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which turns into Vitamin A, and help ward off sun damage, wrinkles, dryness and blemishes. Plus, they keep eyes healthy and prevent life-altering conditions like macular degeneration—what’s not beautiful about that?
5) Sweet potatoes—Along with carrots, sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, along with other necessary nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, folate, calcium and potassium. Some components of retinol, a costly topical skin prescription, are actually derived from Vitamin A, so you can save money and a trip to the dermatologist by piling more sweet potatoes on your plate. Just one serving can provide 700% of your daily Vitamin A consumption. Eat up!
Other superfoods that contain the same skin-saving nutrients include tomatoes, spinach, cranberries and wild salmon. Lines of beauty products made out of vegetables are surfacing, but why pay the extra price for the product when you’re already paying for food. Incorporate these foods into your diet for naturally healthy and glowing skin. Then swipe on some lipstick to flaunt your new flawless looks!
Images courtesy of: media.npr.org