These days there is so much buzz about which skin care products will make us look younger. But is that really the whole picture?
Medical science says, “no.” According to WebMD, doctors and scientists are discovering that what you eat may have even more to do with skin health and appearance than what you slather on top.
Here are some tips from the experts on the best anti-aging foods to eat.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
This fatty acid is abundant in foods like flax seeds (and oil), salmon (wild caught Alaskan Sockeye is best), and walnuts. Tuna is rich in omega-3 as well, but you’ll want to steer clear of eating it too often due to mercury concerns.
Omega-3 fatty acids keep your cell membranes functioning optimally. This means that nutrients can get in better and toxins can get out. Additionally, healthy membranes mean that cells are able to retain vital moisture, allowing the skin to look younger.
Dr. Nicholas Perricone supports a diet rich in foods that contain omega-3’s because it helps reduce inflammation in the body. With less inflammation, the skin will age at a slower rate. The key, Dr. Perricone says, is to avoid eating simple carbohydrates and sugars. These foods cause blood sugar and insulin to spike.
Dramatic rises in insulin cause the cells in the body to become inflamed, which promote the aging process in skin. Sugar-rich foods also contribute to aging through a process called glycation. This mechanism in the body can produce free-radicals, which are thought to contribute to skin aging at the cellular level.
Vitamin C (“C” is for Collagen)
Okay, so the “C” isn’t really for collagen, but this powerhouse vitamin is known for helping the body to make this flexible connective tissue. Collagen is found in the skin, helping it to remain elastic, supple, and youthful looking. As we age, collagen production decreases…and existing collagen starts to harden.
Vitamin C is considered an antioxidant (goodbye free-radicals!), and is found in many fruits and vegetables. Boost your collagen production by eating more of these Vitamin C-rich foods (listed from most to least):
- Acerola cherries
- Guavas
- Bell peppers
- Kiwi
- Strawberries
- Citrus fruits
- Papaya
- Brussels sprouts
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
Vitamin E & Selenium
Walnuts were mentioned above for their high omega-3 content, but they also have lots of skin-loving zinc, Vitamin C, and selenium. Bonus: they contain protein. Protein is the building blocks of cells, so make sure you get plenty of it in your diet.
Vitamin E and selenium are the nutrients most abundant in sunflower seeds. These compounds are both antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from damage while also repairing existing damage from aging, free radicals, sun exposure, and environmental pollutants.
P.S. Avocados are also a great source of vitamin E, and their high fat content is amazing for helping the skin look younger. Selenium is also found in Brazil nuts, oysters, and mushrooms…so eat up!
Anti-Aging Cosmetic Treatments in New York
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Contact James today on his Cosmetic Concierge line (call/text) to 917-860-3113 (open 24/7).
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*Always contact your doctor for any medical concerns. The information on this site is not intended to provide dietary or medical advice.
*Information in this article is not medical advice and may not be factually accurate. It is intended for entertainment purposes only. Consult with a physician before attempting any tips in this blog post and to get the most up to date factual data about any procedure or treatment.
