9 Eating Habits To Keep You Looking Young
Anti-aging creams are nice and all, but have you tried green tea or avocados? A lot of the anti-aging components we look for in different creams and lotions can naturally be found in some of the foods we eat on a regular basis. Numerous studies have shown that foods rich in healthy fats and antioxidants can work wonders for your skin cells, and can help slow down the process of aging.
So if you're looking to keep that skin looking young and healthy, here are a few eating habits to look younger.
Cook with olive oil.
Did you know that olive oil actually has anti-inflammatory properties and can protect your skin? It's true! Studies show olive oil can actually keep your skin looking younger. Part of that may have to do with the fact that olive oil has monounsaturated fat, which has proven to increase skin elasticity.
Drink green tea.
Antioxidants are a huge help in protecting your skins' collagen, and green tea is full of it! Green tea contains antioxidants (polyphenols), which have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Plus, green tea does have some caffeine, making it the perfect drink to swap out with your afternoon coffee pick-me-up. One study from the International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research even shows green tea can be proven to delay collagen aging.
Snack on berries and dark chocolate.
Berries and dark chocolate also have high counts of antioxidants, but these antioxidants are called flavanols. Flavanols can actually protect your skin from sun damage. Berries and dark chocolate are also rich in dietary fiber, which is actually the number one thing you should be eating in order to lose weight.
Eat salmon.
The anti-inflammatory omega-3's really can work wonders! Because of those polyunsaturated fats, your body is able to have healthy heart health, eye health, brain health, hormone production, immune function, and heart and lung support. Plus, according to the Micronutrient Information Center at Oregon State University, polyunsaturated fatty acids can play "a critical role in normal skin function and appearance." Salmon also contains dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) which promotes healthy skin by protecting the cell membranes.
Sneak in lots of orange vegetables.
While having a variety of vegetables is good for any diet, the orange vegetables are high in beta carotene, which is particularly important for your eyes and skin. Beta carotene contains vitamin A, which is needed for having healthy-looking skin. Adding in more orange vegetables—like pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, butternut squash, bell peppers, and more—can help with your overall skin health thanks to that boost of vitamin A.
Sub eggs for flaxseed eggs.
While some research has shown that eggs can help protect skin, acne, rashes, and even dryness, one study from the British Journal of Nutrition found that flaxseed oil has also been proven to help smooth out your skin and protect it from sun damage. You can try some of your favorite baking recipes with flaxseed eggs instead! To make one, simply mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal (ground flaxseed) with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 15 to 20 minutes then use it like you would with your egg in that bread—or pancakes!
Enjoy tomato-based pasta dishes.
If you're planning on making pasta for dinner, a tomato-based sauce will actually help you with that younger looking skin. The phytochemical that makes tomatoes red can actually help boost collagen strength in your skin. One study by researchers from Manchester and Newcastle Universities even found tomato products will fight off sunburn and wrinkles.
Top off your meals with avocado.
The monounsaturated fats in avocado will work like magic on your skin! Monounsaturated fats have been proven to hydrate and shield your skin from premature aging due to UV radiation, while also helping with skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles, according to Healthline.
Start your day with oatmeal.
Not only is oatmeal full of fiber, but oats will also help to feed the good anti-inflammatory bacteria in your gut. Without this bacteria, blood sugar level spikes are bound to happen, along with skin problems. By having a good amount of oats in your diet, you can strengthen and firm your body tissues. Especially because it has high levels of silicon, which studies have proven to help retain skin elasticity.
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