Having skin problems Is it too dry, too rough or just too oily Skin problems can lead to many issues; they can even result in loss of confidence and self-esteem. So, what can you do about it Well, there are certain super foods that actually help your skin glow. Want to know what they are Read on!

1. Blueberries
 
Blueberries are crammed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Not only do they taste great, but they also help rid you of skin problems like scarring and pigmentation. The antioxidant property helps eliminate damage-inducing free radicals and is great for the skin. You can also think of including other sources of antioxidants like dark chocolate or red wine. Eating raw fruits and vegetables is healthier, as they have been found have higher antioxidant levels (1).

2. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like mackerel, salmon and sardine are great for the skin. They are crammed with omega-3 fatty acids that not only provide the right oil balance, but also help remove free radicals from the body. The essential omega-3s don’t end up clogging the pores, and the oil is good even for people with oily skin. If you are on a strict diet, you may be tempted to forgo fat. But omega-3s are healthy fats and are necessary for supple and glowing skin (2).

3. Whole Grain

While you regularly consume processed white bread or pasta, the foods that are known to raise insulin levels, you may want to consider opting for whole-wheat or multi-grain bread or flour in your diet. The low level of processing ensures that the amount of dietary fiber you ingest is optimal, which in turn ensures that your digestive problems aren’t reflected on your skin and your skin is healthy (3).

4. H2O (Water)

You must have a decent amount of water to ensure good looking skin. If you don’t have the required amount of water, your skin might appear dry and dull, and will not take on a supple and glowing feel. As you lose water, you must remember to have enough to ensure that the skin doesn’t dry up. Stay away from energy drinks and sugary beverages that can spike insulin levels (4).

5. Green Tea

One of the best remedies for bad skin, green tea contains many age-fighting and free radical eliminating antioxidants that can help remove scarring and pigmentation in the skin. It has also been shown to combat aging effects and is even a good source of water (5).

6. Yogurt

Yogurt contains ‘healthy bacteria’, also known as probiotics that help aid the digestive process. These digestive problems can lead to other conditions like skin infection or inflammation. Thus, yogurt is one of the best foods for good looking and healthy skin (6).

7. Sweet Potatoes

Vitamin A is one of the essential nutrients for skin health. Sweet potatoes are crammed with Vitamin A, which actively helps reduce wrinkles and aging effects (7). Many topical creams boast of vitamin A as the active ingredient that helps remove wrinkles. However, using topical creams can lead to dry and flaky skin. Hence, it’s better you include sweet potatoes in your diet.

8. Broccoli

One of the most popular cruciferous vegetables, broccoli is great for the skin and it is crammed with Vitamin E, one of the best nutrients for skin and hair health. Vitamin E helps keep the skin hydrated. Broccoli also contains other essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, both of which help eliminate free radicals and fight aging. The darkergreener the broccoli, the more antioxidants it contains, and the healthier it is (8).

9. Avocadoes

Rich in healthy fat and other essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, avocadoes are one of the best foods for good skin health. It helps the skin derive essential healthy fat and the antioxidants help eliminate pigmentation, scarring and help enhance the complexion. Many face mask recipes use avocado due to its emollient and skin-healthy properties. However, they can have reverse effects on clogged pores and people with acne prone skin (9).

10. Vitamin D

This is the only vitamin that the body produces in sunlight. It is also the only vitamin that generally doesn’t form a part of our diet. However, it’s especially important for fighting aging lines and eliminating free radicals. Usually, you can get the required amount of vitamin D in your diet through supplements (10).

BDST: 1725 HRS, MAR 30, 2015