The secret to healthier hair and glowing skin?
It's not in your makeup case. It's in your diet. These superfoods will
give you gorgeous skin and beautiful hair.
This low-profile berry was ranked
number one in antioxidant activity by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
compared to 40 common fruits and vegetables. The antioxidants in blueberries
protect you from premature aging, so add half a cup to your yogurt or cereal
every day.
Wild Salmon
Wild
salmon -- not farm-raised -- is one of the best food sources for omega-3 fatty
acids, which helps keep your skin supple and moisturized. Salmon also has
selenium, a mineral that protects the skin from sun exposure. The vitamin D in
salmon keeps your bones and teeth strong and healthy, too. You won't have a
problem adding salmon to your diet since there are hundreds of ways to enjoy
this beauty superfood. Try it grilled, baked, in your pasta, with a salad, in
sushi, or just with a side of asparagus.
Spinach
This leafy
green vegetable is rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Spinach is loaded with
lutein, which keeps your eyes healthy and sparkling. Spinach is also a good
source of vitamins B, C, and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and
omega-3 fatty acids. Trade your lettuce for spinach, or saute spinach for a
quick, healthy side.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes
are the best source of the anti-aging antioxidant lycopene. Surprisingly,
lycopene in tomatoes is more easily absorbed by your body when it is cooked or
processed, so make sure to stock up on canned tomato sauce, tomato juice, and
ketchup.
Dark Chocolate
We
won't judge you if you keep a secret stash of chocolate in your purse or desk
(or both). In fact, we recommend you do -- especially if you're willing to
share. Dark chocolate helps skin stay hydrated and protects skin from sun
damage, and contrary to popular belief, chocolate does not cause acne. Before
you make a mad dash of dark chocolate, however, keep in mind that the best kind
of chocolate has a high flavanol content and should be at least 60 percent
cacao.
Oysters
The jury's still out on whether
oysters are really aphrodisiacs, but they are a good source of zinc, which aids
in skin cell renewal and repair. Zinc also keeps your nails, hair, and eyes
healthy.
You don't
need to eat cupful’s of walnuts to enjoy their many benefits: smoother skin,
healthy hair, brighter eyes, and strong bones. Get your daily dose of nutrients
like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E by eating a handful by themselves or
throwing some in your salad, pasta, or dessert.
Yogurt
One cup of low-fat yogurt has more calcium than a cup of fat-free milk, which is great for your posture, nails, and teeth. Mix it with fruit or granola for a healthy breakfast or that essential midafternoon snack.
Kiwis
This
small, brown, fuzzy fruit is loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, which keep
skin firm, help prevent wrinkles, and are great for healthy bones and teeth.
The antioxidants in kiwis also protect you from cancer and heart disease.