AVOCADO
Not all fats are bad for you. Most of the fats in an avocado are monounsaturated fats that are actually good for you as they help neutralise those nasty fats in other foods. Combined with Vitamin E, the avocado combats dryness to nourish your skin and hair.
BERRIESS
trawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries (the list goes on!) produce collagen (sound familiar?) to keep your skin supple, smooth and plump. So add them to your cereals and desserts or swap them with your barbecue chips for an afternoon snack – which is something I’m trying to do.
GREEN TEA
If I had a dollar for everytime someone told me that green tea is especially good for you, I’d be – well, I wouldn’t be writing this blog now, would I? Green tea is packed with catechins, an antioxidant that helps fight viruses and slows down ageing. While I am convinced of the beauty benefits of said tea, sadly, to me, green tea is like drinking poo tea.
NUTS
Brimming with vitamins A and E, nuts protect your skin against pollutants while minimising sun damage. I also heard that Brazil nuts help improve the condition of your hair and nails as well as boosting your skin elasticity.
OILY FISH
Oily fish like sardines and mackerel contain essential fatty acids that actually reduce skin inflammation and keep your skin ultra moisturised. These EFAs also promote elasticity, keeping those wrinkles at bay.
OLIVE OIL
Ah, olive oil – one of those things that seem to be good for you in every way – your skin, hair, nails, diet, etc. Like avocado, olive oil is packed with the good fats, antioxidants, vitamins A and E. The result is a more soft and supple, younger-looking skin. Opt for Extra Virgin Olive Oil as, unlike other olive oils, EA has not been chemically processed.
PROBIOTIC YOGHURT
Probiotic yoghurt is bursting with good bacteria that keep your skin looking healthy. Research has shown that eczema sufferers can greatly benefit from a daily intake.
SPINACH
Eek! While my then-favourite cartoon figure Popeye sculled them down like beer, I didn’t particularly care for them – or brussel sprouts. But they’re supposed to be a great source of vitamins B, C and E. Vitamins C and E are a powerful anti-aging combination while vitamin B boosts energy in your activity levels, promoting that healthy glow.
WHOLEGRAINS
Aka brown wholemeal versions of carb faves like pasta and bread. They’re loaded with fibre that aid in your digestion. Being regular is essential not just for your health but your skin as it flushes out the toxins and if these build up, say good bye to radiant skin and hello to a dull complexion. Do you eat any of the above as part of your normal diet?
