Top 5 Foods for Glowing Skin

You know how the saying goes, “you are what you eat”. That couldn’t be truer when it comes to your skin. Have you ever noticed how your skin tends to take a toll after a particularly busy week where you aren’t getting enough sleep, eating poorly and drinking a few too many cocktails? While everyone’s skin is different and our genetics play a huge part in healthy, clear skin, you can still do your part by eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water and getting your eight hours of sleep every night.

Dermatologists are still trying to prove the link between diet and acne, but recent studies have shown that high-glycemic foods (cereal, white bread, soda, etc.) may be one cause for breakouts. When high-GI foods are consumed, they boost blood sugar, which creates extra insulin in the body. As a result, this cues more sebum to be created and clog pores, which can lead to acne. A 2007 Australian study shows researchers examined 43 men with acne, giving one group a low GI diet, while the other group maintained a high GI diet. After 12 weeks, the low-GI group saw significantly improved skin.

For anyone who suffers from acne or other skin conditions, you should always consult with your dermatologist to find the best skin care routine that works for you. However, there are certain foods that may help you maintain healthy, clear and glowing skin from the inside out. Here are a few that we’ve come across:

1. Whole Grains: A low-GI diet consisting of whole grains may just be the way to clearer skin. Whole grains are high in antioxidants, stabilize blood sugar and prevent insulin spikes. Say goodbye to white bread, French fries and pasta and hello to whole grain bread, brown rice and whole wheat pasta.

2. Fish: Certain fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines are loaded with essential fatty acids like omega 3 and omega 6. These essential fatty acids help to create healthy cell membranes, retain water so skin looks refreshed and plump, and help fight inflammation.

3. Sweet Potatoes: This delicious vegetable, which is a low-GI food, is loaded with vitamin A, which helps the body to shed old skin cells. This sweet vegetable is also high in beta carotene, an antioxidant that protects skin from damage caused by sun exposure

4. Water: This is an obvious one but water is great for your skin. Water keeps your cells hydrated and moves nutrients into your cells and toxins out. If you don’t get enough water, your skin will begin to accumulate toxins, which can clog pores. Make sure to get your 6-8 glasses of water per day!

5. Green Tea: It seems that green tea is good for many different reasons, including a radiant complexion. Green tea boasts numerous anti-inflammatory properties and contains high levels of the antioxidant called polyphenol, which protects against free radicals. Green tea will also help reduce stress, which is an acne trigger!