Beauty truly does come from within. The better the food we eat, the better the skin’s health.
A study from 2012, explained it that the way we age comes from internal factors and external factors.“The first is intrinsic skin aging, which represents chronological aging and affects skin in the same pattern it affects all internal organs.2 The second is extrinsic skin aging, which we view as aged skin and is the result of external factors and environmental influence, mainly chronic sun exposure and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation but also smoking, pollution, sleep deprivation and poor nutrition.”
The good news is that because external factors can affect our skin’s aging, we have some control over prevention.
Dr. Sear’s Prime Time Health uncovers a few ways that we can “Keep Our Skin Looking Younger”.
A few of my favorites are:
1) Water It
We’ve all heard how staying hydrated is so important to our overall health. That means our skin too. According to the Mayo Clinic “If the outermost layer of the epidermis doesn’t contain enough water, skin will lose elasticity and feel rough.”
2) Don’t Smoke
Just don’t. Besides the numerous health problems smoking can cause, it is the most common cause of premature aging.
3) Cover it
We need to watch out for sun damage and especially as we age. Excessive sun damage minimizes collagen not to mention increases your risk of skin cancer.
4) Move It
Another reason to exercise regularly! Circulation through exercise helps remove toxins and waste that could be trapped in the body and skin. Also, exercising can increase the “delivery” of antioxidants from healthy foods.
And the big one…
5) Feed It (good foods)
What are foods that support our skin as we age?
- Fatty Fish (Salmon)
- Avocados
- Walnuts, Sunflower Seeds
- Sweet Potatoes
- Red/Yellow Peppers
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
- Soy
- Dark Chocolate
- Green Tea
- Grapes
These foods are made up of antioxidants, vitamins E and C, minerals like Zinc, and other important nutrients that help our skin with wrinkles, texture, blood flow, hydration, and sun damage prevention.
For more detail on why these are important skin foods check out:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-foods-for-healthy-skin
Think about how you can add these foods to your diet. Even small changes can make a difference!