Bridal Beauty by Charlene_Evason

Besides having a passion for being creative and doing a job I love-which of course is make-up! I also have a fascination for nutrition and how it affects our health, well-being and skin health. Through experience and research there is much truth in the saying “you are what you eat.” And after all the skin is the largest organ of the human body and an organ of elimination, if you over burden the body with toxins and processed foods it will reflect in skins appearance.

The body and skin requires plenty of vitamins and minerals in order to maintain good health. Here is a selection of some of the best foods available to get healthy, smooth and glowing skin:

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)-Omega 3, 6 and 9 are known as essential fatty acids. They are known as being essential because the body requires them to maintain good health because it cannot produce them naturally, and so EFA’s can only be gained through food or supplements. Ideally Fatty Acids should account for 15 % of the body’s daily calorie intake.

Foods high in essential fatty acids: Oily fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines, nuts, seeds and flaxseed oil

What are the skin health benefits of EFA’s? EFA’s can help reduce cellulite. They are also good for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Vitamin C-Vitamin C is often the main ingredient used in most skin care and beauty products. It aids in the production of collagen, which is a protein that forms the basic skin structure. Collagen breaks down with age, resulting in skin losing its elasticity. The vitamin also neutralizes free radicals that cause skin damage.

Foods rich in Vitamin C: Oranges, mango, grapefruit, tomatoes

What are the skin health benefits? Smooth, brighter complexion, protects collagen and elastin in the skin.

Anti-oxidants-Over exposure to free radicals accelerates the ageing process, due to the cell damage they cause. Anti-oxidants help protect against damage, therefore eating a diet packed with anti-oxidants is highly recommended.

Foods rich in anti-oxidants: Acai berries, blueberries, strawberries pomegranate, kale, spinach and white tea

What are the skin health benefits of anti-oxidants? Maintaining good skin health, makes skin appear brighter also prevents premature ageing and skin damage.

Beta-carotene and Vitamin A-Foods high in Beta-carotene are converted into Vitamin A, when it is consumed and this acts as an anti oxidant, preventing skin cell damage. Vitamin A also helps the body to produce new skin cells.

Foods high in Beta-carotene and Vitamin A: Spinach, carrots, sweet potato, mangos and leafy greens

What are the skin health benefits of Beta-carotene and Vitamin? Prevents acne and reduces sebum (oil) production. It is also good for improving fine lines and wrinkles.

Vitamin E- Vitamin E is another ingredient which is used in most beauty products because it has so many skin health benefits. It is naturally moisturising and reduces water loss from the skin. Vitamin E is also known to be highly beneficial for preventing skin cancer, due to its powerful anti-oxidant properties and natural sun protection against skin damage.

Foods high in Vitamin E: Almonds, Sunflower seeds, spinach, tomatoes and avocado

What are the skin health benefits of Vitamin E? Moisturises skin, improves skin tone and protects skin.

Until next time,

Happy Make-uping!

Charlene