Superfoods are all the rage. It’s a fairly new term referring to foods that offer maximum nutritional benefits for minimal calories possible. Certain super foods can actually help to protect your skin. Winter can be especially harsh for the skin, and therefore we need to do all we can to protect it against the elements.

Not only is healthy eating beneficial to maintain a proper body weight and boost the immune system, but it rejuvenates your skin and improves the quality of your hair, nails and more. Assisting your skin from the inside out is just one of the ways to look after it, and here we explore the five main superfoods that have been shown to assist.

Water

One of the most important elements of our diets. Water gives the body the much-needed hydration that it craves. Drinking plenty of water make the skin soft, supple and smooth. If you are not drinking enough water, your skin will become dehydrated causing it to age faster, and brings on clogged pores, wrinkles and even possibly blemishes. It can also leave you feeling fatigued.

Fatty Acids

Walnuts, flax seeds and fish such as salmon and mackerel are really good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. These polyunsaturated fats help to accelerate the production of the skins natural oil barrier which is vital in keeping your skin hydrated. They are essential nutrients found only in certain foods. They further serve to regulate the skin’s oil production, improve balanced hydration and subdue breakouts also minimising the signs of ageing. These fatty acids also help to soften rough, dry skin and have a soothing effect on skin irritation and dermatitis. For plumper, younger looking skin, ensure that you are including Omega-3 oils in your daily diet.

Fruits and Vegetables

Especially those rich in vitamins A and C, fruits and vegetables really do assist the skin in looking and feeling younger and more nourished. Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit contain high levels of vitamin C and help to boost the production of collagen in the body. Collagen is a protein that works to keep the skin firm and more elastic, especially in the winter months. Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is most commonly found in meat, is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for the body for many functions, including skin health. Fish, eggs and dairy products all contain vitamin A. For vegetarians, plant-based options include sweet potatoes, broccoli and carrots which are all good in converting the carotenoids found in these, into vitamin A. These essential vitamins prevent the loss of water from the skin, thus keeping it from becoming dry, itchy and dull looking.

Spinach

Spinach, along with some other food items such as red meat, seafood and beans are great sources of iron. If you are looking for great glowing skin, spinach is the number one superfood to achieve this. It further contains vitamins A and C as well as many antioxidants that minimise the chances of skin infections. It plays a critical role in fighting anaemia and adds wonderful colour to the skin.

Avocado’s

Not only does avocado increase collagen metabolism (which ultimately is responsible for tightening the elasticity of our skin) but it is also packed with healthy fats, vitamins (A, D and E) and minerals, all of which provide optimal nourishment to our bodies and keep the skin healthy as well. Avocados also help to moisturise and protect the skin from damaging UV rays making this one of the most powerful superfoods to aid the skin.

It’s important to remember that the dietary choices we make every day either allow us to feel energetic or they can leave us feeling fatigued and cranky. Likewise, your eating choices can either nourish the skin leaving it feeling healthy and looking great, or it can make us look older than our actual age. Eating healthy is beneficial for maintaining proper body weight and boosts the immune system, as well as rejuvenates the skin and other parts of the body.

Apart from the foods that you eat, it is important to look after your skin with natural and effective skincare products as well. BWG Botanics offers a wide variety of organic skincare items that will assist with even the toughest skin conditions and will make your beauty routine that much easier.
Combined with the above 5 food items, you’re looking at a winning combination on your journey to nourished, healthier-looking skin.