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By Janet Martin

Maintaining soft and younger-looking skin does not have to break your budget. If you cannot afford to go to the spa to have a facial or body scrub regularly, then you can always rely on the power of nature to help you get the celebrity-looking skin that you’ve always longed for. For example, eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables everyday can be really helpful in making your skin glow.

Although all plant produce contain the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your skin healthy, some food have more skin-friendly nutrients and antioxidants than others. If you think you need additional help to combat signs of skin aging, such as redness, sunburn, wrinkles, and dryness, then you ought to know these five power foods that are packed with necessary components to banish your skin woes.

Chocolate

Many people stay away from chocolates because they think these goodies are fattening. In truth, however, sugar and milk that are mixed with cocoa to create milk chocolate bars are the reason why you gain weight when eating chocolates. However, dark chocolate, which has a higher percentage of cocoa, is actually good for you and your skin because it is rich in antioxidants.

A study conducted in Germany showed that women who regularly consume cocoa-rich products that have high amounts of flavonol possess smoother and more hydrated skin. Furthermore, redness and damages from sun exposure are minimal among these women. If you are concerned about chocolates making you fat, you can always consume chocolate-based beverages or products that are made up of at least 70% cocoa.

Green Tea

The popularity of green tea has surged over the last couple of years because of the discovery that this concoction is loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. In fact, people who are trying to shed some pounds are drinking several glasses of this nature-colored tea to help increase metabolism and suppress cravings.

Aside from helping in trimming down the fat, green tea is effective in fighting some types of cancer, inflammation, and even skin aging. If you are serious in having a soft and supple skin, you better replace soda and other sugar-rich beverages with hot or cold green tea.

Fish

Omega 3 and 6 are essential fatty acids that are found in fatty fish, such as cod, salmon and tilapia. Omega 3 fatty acid, which your body cannot manufacture on its own, is important in strengthening your skin barrier or protecting it from irritants and pollution. Furthermore, it also keeps the moisture in your skin, helping prevent dryness. Alternative medicine practitioners also believe that this fatty acid aids in treating rosacea, dermatitis, and other skin problems.

Aside from the sun, Omega 6 is a good source of Vitamin D. It is a known fact that Vitamin D is important in keeping calcium levels in the body balanced; it is also vital in bolstering immunity and even in regulating blood pressure. Thus, you really do not have to expose yourself too much to the rays of the sun to get the right amounts of Vitamin D that you need.

Broccoli

This cruciferous vegetable is really a powerhouse of nutrients. Eating broccoli everyday will not only help you attain beautiful skin, but it will also fight peptic ulcer, some forms of cancer and other diseases as well. Broccoli is a good source of Vitamin A, which reduces oil production; Vitamin K, which averts the formation of bruises; and Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that prevents fine lines and wrinkles.

Almonds

Vitamin E has long been known to assist in cellular regeneration and reducing the signs of aging. Moreover, this nutrient is also responsible for keeping your skin moisturized and hydrated. One of the best food sources of this substance is almond; eating a handful daily can increase the levels of Vitamin E in your body.

Although the food that you eat can contribute to healthy-looking skin, you also need help from topical creams and gels to get rid of skin blemishes like pimples, skin discoloration, and even wrinkles.

About the Author: Janet Martin is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premiere online news magazine

thearticleinsiders.com

.

Source:

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