Inflammation can damage your skin and your confidence. Continue reading to learn about these 10 foods to prevent pimples & irritated skin…
There are many myths that go around that certain foods and lifestyles cause acne, and it’s finally time to put some to rest. A huge misconception about foods that prevent acne is that they “only raise cholesterol levels.”
“Hormonal changes within the body have the greatest impact on acne formation. High-stress lifestyles can promote acne production, so stay calm and relaxed to avoid breakouts,” says Rachelle Wood, registered holistic nutritionist in Charlottetown P.E.I.
There are two types of stress that can cause changes in the skin – psychological stress and physical stress. Both release cortisol, a stress hormone in our bodies, that can cause acne that isn’t related to our eating habits, sleeping routines, or not washing your face.
However, our diets greatly affect our skin, nails, hair, and mood. Foods that spike blood sugar levels can also make your body create extra insulin, which also increases the production of cortisol. To be safe and keep your skin silky smooth, you should always ensure that you eat wholesome, healthy foods year round (especially during the cold winter months).
Skin is the largest organ, so staying hydrated and receiving the essential nutrients from your food will safeguard clear skin. Now, go ahead and take a look at the following 10 foods that will help keep your skin in tip-top shape:
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is a fantastic food to clear your skin. It contains essential nutrients for the skin like vitamin A, B complex, C, E, & K. All of these antioxidants work together to fight free-radical damage and help the skin gain a natural glow.
2. Garlic
Garlic is a superfood known to fight inflammation because it’s full of a naturally occurring chemical, allicin, that kills off harmful bacteria and viruses that your body might be trying to defeat. With lowered inflammation, you can expect less redness and irritated skin.
3. Artichoke
Artichokes are full of antioxidants and vitamin C making it a great addition to your diet for healthier skin, less inflammation, and toxin removal.
4. Brown Rice
Brown rice is a rich source of protein, magnesium, several antioxidants, and vitamin B. Vitamin B acts as our skin’s stress fighter and will help regulate hormone levels and prevent the likelihood of breakouts on the arms, back, and face.
5. Avocados
Not only are avocados healthy for your skin, but they’re extremely delicious too. This tasty fruit is rich in vitamin E and vitamin C which can improve skin vitality and reduce inflammation by naturally moisturizing your skin from the inside out.
6. Nuts
Nuts are rich in many minerals and healthy fats that can help acne sufferers. Zinc, selenium, vitamin E, copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium are all essential for healthy skin – luckily, you will find all of these in a bag of mixed nuts.
7. Fatty Fish
Fatty acids like omega-3s and omega-6s are beneficial for the skin because of their ability to reduce inflammation in your body that can trigger cells to clog pores and potentially cause acne. Eating more salmon, mackerel, and sardines can fight off blemishes, rashes, and irritated skin.
8. Red Grapes
Believe it or not, red grapes (and their seeds) contain powerful natural chemicals and antioxidants that treat inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Grapes can also help to control the side effects of allergic reactions on the skin.
9. Alfalfa Sprouts
Although they alfalfa sprouts looks a lot like grass, they are filled with essential skin-clearing nutrients and live enzymes that fight inflammation. They are packed with vitamin K, vitamin C, copper, manganese, and folate while being very low in calories – so you won’t be breaking your diet.
10. Fennel
Fennel can be the perfect natural skin cleanser. It tastes like licorice and can improve digestion, flush out excess fluids and toxins, and also reduce swelling in the skin. Fennel lacks cholesterol and is loaded with fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, and phytonutrients.
