A healthy, glowing complexion says a lot about your skin and diet. The condition of our skin reflects what we eat and highlights the importance of looking after yourself from the inside out. Food is fuel and our bodies function best when we provide it with healthy, balanced, and nutritious food.

Moisture levels

Drinking water regularly is one of the healthiest habits you can have for your skin and entire body. By drinking plenty of water throughout the day, you are providing your inner organs and your skin with moisture that has been lost through sweat and other natural processes.

Wrinkles

Healthy oils and omega-3 fatty acids have an amazing impact on skin health. These oils and fats can be found in fish, nuts, olive oil, and many more foods. By consuming these oily foods on a regular basis, along with healthy proteins, you can boost the collagen production in your skin. Thus, your skin gets smoother and suppler, which will help prevent premature wrinkles and skin sagging.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer that often occurs from severe sun damage and lack of protective clothing and sunscreen. Exposure to UV rays promotes the formation of free radicals which can cause damage to components of our skin that are responsible for its structure and firmness – such as elastin and collagen. Over a period of time, this can result in more prominent fine lines and wrinkles. By maintaining heart-healthy diets rich with antioxidants, fish, and leafy greens, you fight free radicals, protect your skin, and some studies have shown that they can help improve skin texture.

Blemishes

Acne and acne scarring have long been a concern of dermatologists, and it is unclear exactly what foods may or may not affect how your skin develops acne. Nevertheless, it is best to stay away from sugary, highly processed food, and refined carbohydrates, which can contribute to increased blemishes.

Food groups to be aware of

Richly colored orange or red fruit and vegetables get much of their color from compounds called carotenoids, some of which can be converted into Vitamin A, which is essential for skin cell reproduction. They are also a great source of Vitamin C, which is essential for manufacturing collagen, and both carotenoids and Vitamin C are antioxidants, helping to fight free radicals which may cause damage to our skin and cause premature signs of aging.

On the contrary, it is best to replace refined carbs and sugars with ‘good carbs’, such as healthy vegetables, whole grains, and the wrinkle-fighting antioxidants found in fruits, which have a lower glycemic index – in turn, reduce the overall carbohydrate load in your diet.

When it comes to establishing a healthy diet, being mindful of what you’re eating is a great first step. What elements of your diet are good? What needs to be changed? Moderation is certainly key as the healthier the diet choices you make, the more it shows in your skin.