There are thousands of facial creams available on the market, each promising younger, smoother, more vibrant skin. And, while expensive creams and lotions can help soften the skin’s surface, the basic foundation of healthy skin is good nutrition. Nothing else can substitute for eating right in terms of overall health, and in particular, the tone and texture of a person’s skin.
One of the most important elements to achieving and maintaining healthy skin is drinking lots of water. Women are advised to drink at least eight glasses of water each day for a variety of reasons, and this practice is very beneficial to the skin. Water actually hydrates the cells of the skin, eliminating waste products, which in turn prevents constipation. This gives skin new softness and radiance. Additionally, keeping your skin hydrated will help to diminish lines and wrinkles, and eliminate pimples and blackheads.
Certain vitamins and minerals, specifically vitamins A, C and E, are beneficial to skin as well. Iron can also contribute to healthy skin tone. People with vitamin deficiencies tend to have skin that is dry and that does not heal properly. Many people tend to have particularly dry skin in the winter when harsh, cold air combines with a lack of sunshine, which provides natural vitamin C. Very dry skin, especially on the hands and feet can crack and even bleed.
B vitamins are particularly helpful. B1 keeps circulation normal, which in turn contributes to healthy skin. B2 can actually eliminate brown aging spots on the skin, while B6 helps prevent eczema. Brewer’s yeast is a natural source of B vitamins. Ingest two tablespoons of dried brewer’s yeast each day for two weeks, and you will see a noticeable difference in skin tone.
Fiber is also important to maintaining healthy skin. As with water, eating fiber prevents constipation, which can be detrimental to skin health. To get more fiber, consider eating more apples and include whole grains in your diet. Simply changing from white rice to brown rice will increase fiber intake. Add beans to the rice and you have a high fiber, low fat main course. Other good sources of fiber are cauliflower and broccoli. Look for snacks that are high in fiber such as nuts, dates, figs, raisins, and seeds.
Eating fish can also be very beneficial to your complexion. The oils in fish will actually help to feed moisture to your skin. It is suggested that at least one meal per day include some type of fish, either fresh or canned. Even canned tuna qualifies in this department!
Flaxseeds are another readily available food source that can help maintain healthy skin. Ground up, flaxseeds contain what is known as omega-three fatty acids, which are highly beneficial to skin health. Some special diets suggest sprinkling flaxseed over your cereal or adding to yogurt.
Don’t forget dairy products, especially milk, and make sure to include vegetable oils in your diet along with yogurts. Always avoid junk food as much as possible. Snacks such as candy, chips, crackers, cookies, and cakes, are high in fat and calories, and can also be loaded with salt which has a counter-effect to drinking water.
Combining good nutrition with a sensible exercise program and plenty of rest can make an enormous difference in overall skin health. Fancy creams can make you feel better, but the essentials of good skin care come down to some very elemental basics that are so simple, anyone can do them. Just remember, drink lots of water! You won’t be sorry.
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