13 Jun Eating for beauty: foods for beautiful skin
They say that beauty comes from within, and it’s certainly true when it comes to beautiful skin. The skin is our largest organ, and when our skin isn’t happy, it’s a sign that our gut is unhappy. And for our gut to be happy we need to eat natural whole foods! Since the foods that we eat get turned into the vitamins, minerals and amino acids used to create new skin cells, the quality of our food plays a huge role in the quality of our skin. At Laura’s Idea, we say it’s always best to get our nutrients from whole foods that get properly absorbed by the body. Supplements are not always absorbed fully and taking too much of some nutrients can be harmful to your health so try to eat real foods whenever possible.
Foods to avoid for beautiful skin
Before we talk about the foods that give you beautiful skin, let’s cover the basics of what NOT to eat. Try to cut out processed foods as much as possible as they are typically full of refined sugar, preservatives and artificial flavourings. These foods lack nutrients and life force so they actually contribute very little to your health. Another thing to avoid is produce that has been exposed to hormones and pesticides. These foreign chemicals when introduced in our bodies can cause inflammation and show up on our skin.
Foods to eat for beautiful skin
Avocados
There are specific foods that contribute to healthier skin – the most notable being avocados. This popular fruit is full of healthy fats and phytonutrients that can help create a good complexion.
Arugula / Rocket
You should also try to eat colourful vegetables abundantly! Each colour represents different nutrients – and the darker, the better! Arugula (a.k.a. rocket), for example, is a rich, dark green colour and full of anti-inflammatory antioxidants. In fact, traditional Middle Eastern medicine used arugula oil to treat psoriasis and eczema. Eating the leafy greens can help slow down the aging process of the skin and protect it against UV damage.
Seaweed
Another great food group for skin is seaweed. One type in particular, dulse (a dark red seaweed), is incredible for skin as it’s rich in antioxidants, protein, vitamins, minerals and omega-3. Dulse is particularly great for detoxifying the liver, hence getting rid of impurities and toxins that can show up on your skin.
Seeds
Other skin-friendly foods include seeds, especially pumpkin seeds, which are rich in blood-building iron and vitamin E.
Silica-rich foods
There’s also silica which helps to build collagen. Wholegrain foods, watercress, cucumbers, tomatoes and red peppers are all good sources of silica.
Fermented foods
And let’s not forget fermented foods! Any food that is gut friendly is skin friendly, and fermented foods contain enzymes and probiotics that promote just this. Miso in particular is great for skin with anti-aging properties.
Coming soon to Laura’s Idea
Although we carry a lot of products that contain the above foods, we haven’t had any that was specifically designed for beautiful skin… until now! Finally, we have a new product that will come out very soon which contains ALL OF THE ABOVE INGREDIENTS. If you’re looking to improve your skin, hair and nails, maintain strong bones and have a healthy glowing complexion, watch out for the big announcement by following us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.