Ask the Doctor :: Are there any foods that will help with my complexion?

Image courtesy of Flickr

Ask the Doctor:

Question: I am noticing that my skin is dull and dry and was wondering what foods might help brighten it up some.

Many people only think about their skin during the warm sunny months, but skin care is year round. The most important thing to remember is applying a good quality sunscreen everyday and second, indulging taste buds in a few nutrient-rich and skin healthy foods. Here they are my top 3 ones:

1) Lemons

Begin each day with squeezing a half to full lemon in a full glass of water. It is refreshing, tasty, and packed with vitamin C that will not only brighten and cleanse your skin but will also ward away any potential sickness. A side note remember to drink water and herbal teas throughout the day to hydrate your body and skin.

2) Spinach, Kale & Arugula

The dark leafy greens are packed with fiber, b vitamins, calcium, vitamin A, and a little zinc which will  help your skin glow and perhaps look a little younger. A simple and fast way to get the leafy greens into your diet is with a green smoothie; and since there is sweet mango in this recipe, most acne prone teens will enjoy drinking it as well.

Image courtesy of Flickr

3) Almonds

Almonds are full of vitamin E which is important in keeping the skin hydrated and protecting the skin from environmental pollutions. If almonds, are not a favorite, sunflower seeds also have a good amount of vitamin E. Adding either of these ( or both) to a salad or a trail mix is a good and simple way to enjoy them.

Be well,

dr.heather

PS If you are looking for skin care products, DeVita is a favorite of mine. You can read more and purchase them here: DeVita Skin.