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Prevention is always better than a cure and when it comes to skin care, that couldn’t be more true!
As well as regular sunscreen usage and not smoking, eating well is the key to help keep you looking hot as you get older.
While your facecreams may have added vitamins and minerals, the process of skin synthesis and repair happens on the inside. This means that eating wisely is the best way to provide your body with its necessary nutrients.
Below are some key foods to eat to help your skin and body looking hot.
Green Tea
Green tea is cup of goodness for health and anti-aging. It contains compounds known as flavanoids which have a wide range of health benefits. Studies have shown that regular consumption of green tea can help decrease sun induced aging of skin, as well as keeping you healthy on the inside by helping lower your blood pressure, lowering your risk of a stroke and contributing to good heart health. Some studies even suggest that green tea may help in cancer prevention.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a food powerhouse, containing a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants. Blueberries are rich in the antioxidant known as anthocyanin that gives blueberries their colour. Anthocyanins help neutralise the effects of free radicals - these are the nasties that cause damage to cells and tissue. Free radicals contribute to the aging of your skin, so do your bit to keep the wrinkles away by filing up on blueberries. They also contain the antioxidant carotenoids which can help increase the UV protective capacity of your skin.
Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are responsible for the health of cell membranes. This acts as a pathway for nutrients to enter into cells and for waste products to exit the cell. Since the membrane influences the cells' ability to hold water, having good healthy cell membraines gives softer, healthier looking skin. This means that a diet high in omega 3 fats helps contribute to beautiful, glowing skin and also good hair. Eat salmon at least once a week, or take omega 3 supplements. Omega 3 is also good for mental well being and heart health.
Spinach
Spinach is rich in many nutrients. It’s a good source of vitamin A (beta carotene), vitamin E, vitamin B6, folic acid, potassium, zinc and magnesium. These are all vital for good skin and overall health. Spinach may help keep your eyes healthy by helping prevent age related macular degeneration and cataracts. The macular of the eye is responsible for central vision including close work and distinguishing colours and distance objects. As we age, the macular can become damaged, resulting in a loss of vision. Spinach contains a rich supply of lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients increase the macular pigment, the bit that acts like a sunscreen to your eyes, helping protect it from damage.
Nicola Graham
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