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September 08, 2007
Nutrition for your skin
As we grow older, our skin tends to lose its elasticity, becomes dry and the appearance of fine lines and age spots is inevitable. Other factors that promote unhealthy skin include poor diet and nutrition, exposure to harsh soaps, exposure to the sun, dry, windy climate, excessive alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking. Skin cells have special agents for combating free radicals and repairing skin damage. These free-radical fighters are called antioxidants. Recent research suggests that antioxidants may play an important role in preventing or delaying the onset of degenerative diseases, thereby slowing the effects of aging.
So which foods are important to keep your skin looking youthful? You guessed it! Fruit and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats – omega-3s is fish and monounsaturated fats in nuts, lean proteins like chicken. All those healthy foods dietitians promote on a daily basis!
Food sources of antioxidants:
Selenium — Helps maintain healthy hair and nails, enhances immunity, works with vitamin E to protect cells from damage. Reduces the risk of cancer, particularly lung, prostate, and colorectal. (Garlic, seeds, Brazil nuts, meat, eggs, poultry, seafood, whole grains. The amount in plant sources varies according to the content of the soil.)
Beta-carotene — Keeps skin healthy, helps prevent night blindness and infections, promotes growth and bone development. (Red, yellow-orange, and leafy green vegetables and fruits, including carrots, apricots, cantaloupe, peppers, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes and pumpkin.)
Vitamin E — Acts as the protector of essential fats in cell membranes and red blood cells. Reduces risk of cancer, heart disease, and other age-associated diseases. (Peanut butter, nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and margarine, wheat germ, avocado, whole grains, salad dressings.)
Vitamin C — Destroys free radicals inside and outside cells. Helps in the formation of connective tissue, the healing of wounds and iron absorption. Helps prevent bruising and keep gums healthy. May reduce risk of cataracts, heart disease, and cancer. (Peppers, tomatoes, citrus fruits and juices, berries, broccoli, spinach, cabbage, potatoes, mango, papaya.)
Posted by Lisa at September 8, 2007 08:23 AM
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