Courtesy of FoodTrients
Edited by Lawndale Bilingual Newspaper

Many of us spend hundreds of dollars each year on skincare products.  Products that say they will make us look younger, provide hydration and elasticity to our skin.  But what if you could achieve that without spending so much money? The age-old adage that you are what you eat is true, especially for your skin. Foods that are good for your skin help to hydrate and guard from environmental damage. Beneficial foods contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to being hydrating and supporting wound healing.  Grace O, cookbook author and founder of FoodTrients®, has compiled the ultimate list of foods that can enhance not only your health but also your skin with a holistic view of the many factors that support our largest organ.  Certain foods like melons, citrus, chile peppers, fish, and whole grains are full of “foodtrients” that promote beautiful skin, shiny hair, and strong nails.  Others include:

Cabbage – All colors of cabbage contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Researchers have identified nearly 20 different antioxidant flavonoids and 15 different plant phenols in cabbage, all of which have demonstrated antioxidant activity that can support scavenging free radicals in the skin.

Chia seeds – A plant-source of polyunsaturated fatty acids called omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds can support skin health. Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the antioxidant defense system of the skin. Additionally, nuts and seeds including chia are rich sources of copper, another precursor to collagen production for skin health.

Spinach – Packed with antioxidant vitamins C and E as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, fresh spinach is a skin-supporting veggie. Another bonus, it is a good source of zinc so it really contains many of the most critical nutrients known to protect your skin.

Oats – Another rich form of beta-glucans, oats are an important part of the diet for your skin. Studies have shown that beta-glucans support the skin in many ways including the reduction of wrinkles, wound healing, antioxidant activity, anti-UV and moisturizing effects.