The Best Foods for Beautiful Clear Skin

You always hear you are what your eat, but did you know that your skin is a direct reflection of that phrase? Our cells are constantly regenerating, and the foods we process and use for energy directly correlate to the health of our outermost layer - our skin.

There are plenty of ways to help improve your skin through external methods, however the foods you eat make a huge impact on your appearance as well. Here are some of the best healthy additions to incorporate in your diet to improve your skin.

The Best Foods for Healthier Skin

Fatty fish.

Fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, and sardines are high in omega-3 fats. Not only do these fats help strengthen cell membranes, but they also help with reducing inflammation.

Water-heavy fruits & veggies. 

Drinking plenty of water positively affects every system in our bodies, but did you know that you can get additional water from the foods you eat? Celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, radishes, lettuce, and zucchini are great sources of hydration.

Nuts.

Containing plenty of important minerals, consuming different varieties of nuts will support a healthy immune system function and are excellent in reducing oxidative stress on the skin.

Avocados.

This delicious fatty fruit is full of vitamin E that supports skin health by fighting free-radicals, and reducing wrinkles and inflammation. Try this Chicken and Avocado Lime Soup for a healthy skin boost!

Colorful foods.

Incorporating a rainbow of colors into every meal ensures that your body is getting a wide variety of nutrients. How does that translate to your skin? It means better protection from the sun (reducing damage), promoting healthy pore and oil gland function, reduced inflammation, and healthier cell turnover for a more youthful glow.

Beans.

Beans are high in zinc which helps balance the good bacteria that populates your skin. Zinc also supports immune system function which means your skin has an easier time fending off infection.

Having healthy skin isn't just what you add to your diet, but also what you remove. Cutting back on highly processed foods, alcoholic beverages, sodium and sugar, and even dairy products can help to improve the natural glow of your skin.

[Credit: Jacobs-Banner, Lani. 4 Foods for Clear, Healthy Skin. Natural Grocers.]