In addition to helping you to lose weight and improve energy, drinking water will hydrate the skin and reduce the signs of aging. Fresh lemon in your water acts as a natural astringent in the body and helps improve overall health – and your skin.
Sprinkle your berries
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture analyses, blueberries have 40 per cent more antioxidant capacity than strawberries. Blueberries are high in vitamin C and can help strengthen collagen formation, thereby reducing the signs of aging. This delicious berry has also been shown to have other health benefits such as improving eyesight and circulation, acting as a natural diuretic, enhancing blood flow and helping to alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Add blueberries to your morning breakfast or to a shake or eat them on their own as a healthy snack.
Avoid eating inflammatory foods
Eating inflammatory foods such as full-fat meats, cheeses and refined flours can show up in your face in the form of breakouts, under-eye bags, puffiness and red patches. In order to reduce these effects naturally, focus on anti-inflammatory foods such as nuts (walnuts, almonds), organic fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
Eat vitamin C–rich foods
Vitamin C is involved in collagen production and protects cells from free-radical damage. It's important to replenish your vitamin C stores on a daily basis by eating vitamin C–rich foods such as peppers, broccoli, oranges, lemons, strawberries, papaya, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts and mustard greens.
Eat foods high in beta carotene
Beta carotene is another critical antioxidant that is beneficial for healthy skin, repair of tissues and protection against sun damage. Beta carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body and is founds in foods such as sweet potatoes, pumpkins, carrots, mangoes and apricots.
Take-home point:
Your skin is the best reflection of your inner health and wellness. Instead of slathering expensive lotions and creams all over your skin in an attempt to reduce the signs of aging, opt for an internal cleanse with the simple and natural steps outlined above. Before you know it, people will be asking you what products you use because your skin looks so radiant. Bon appetit!
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Dr. Joey Shulman, D.C., is a registered nutritionist and author of bestselling book The Last 15 – A Weight Loss Breakthrough. For your free weight loss assessment, please visit the Shulman Weight Loss Clinic at www.drjoey.com.
