Like most people, you want smooth, radiant skin. The food you eat plays a significant role in bringing you closer to that goal. No superfood magically smoothes the wrinkles away, but there are the basic rules to follow that can make all the difference, and it could be that you already know them well.
Before diving into the details, here are some guidelines to start:
Look for items that are naturally high in nutrients, like fruits, whole grains, nuts, veggies, fish, and other forms of lean protein.
Change things up by choosing a variety of foods, making sure you get all the vitamins and minerals you need from your food.
Remember, it’s not only what we eat that makes the difference. Sleep, hydration, exercise, and sunscreen all play an important role, no matter what we eat.
Now, let’s get specific about foods with anti-aging benefits that you need to add to your grocery list.
Avocados
Avocados, one of the most delicious foods out there, are high in inflammation-fighting fatty acids that boost smooth, supple skin. They are also loaded with a range of vital nutrients that may counteract the damaging effects of aging. These include vitamins K, C, E, and A, potassium, and B vitamins.
Oats
Because oats are low-glycemic, this is a food that won’t spike your blood sugar like refined bread, rice, and pasta. On the opposite side of the scale, high-glycemic foods are well known to cause acne and wrinkles. Oats also have a natural plant chemical that prevents damage to skin cells and soothes skin irritation.
Broccoli
Broccoli is recognized as one of the best foods for reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease. What’s more, this water-rich cruciferous vegetable is also loaded with sulforaphane, a phytochemical which activates a process that detoxifies old cells. Broccoli also contains substantial levels of lutein, a carotenoid that protects the eyes and enhances brain function.
Berries
The more colorful your fruit bowl, the better. Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries) offer an abundance of fiber, phytonutrients, and antioxidants, all of which can help regenerate your youthful appearance.
Each type of berry features different polyphenols that have been shown to improve cardiovascular health. For example, the ellagic acid, a phenol in raspberries, may bind to specific chemicals responsible for cancer. Also, berries are loaded with Vitamin C, which has been proven to promote and preserve collagen in the skin.
Wild Alaskan Salmon
Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids known to reduce inflammation, prevent dry skin, and protect against skin cancer. Also, being rich in vitamin E, salmon may protect against photoaging, the premature aging of the skin caused by UV rays.
As you incorporate these anti-aging foods into your diet, you might still have concerns about your appearance. If so, schedule an appointment online or call us at (410) 744-0900 to consult with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons at The Maryland Institute of Plastic Surgery. From facial treatments to lasers to cosmetic injectable products, we offer the latest in minimally invasive procedures for restoring your glowing skin and minimizing the look of wrinkles.