You are what you eat: Super-foods for beautiful skin

If you’re looking for the right food for a clear, glowing or healthy skin, look no further.

With the healthy eating revolution in full swing, most of us try our best to be a part of it. From checking what we eat and the way we live to the products we buy, there has been a considerable change. Products like rice, wheat, cereals, which previously took up most of the space in a grocery cart, have now given way to healthier options like quinoa, chia seeds, flax seed etc. A lot has been said about the benefits of these superfood to our health, how they can prevent various diseases and help us live a longer healthier life. But the benefits of superfoods does not end there. The good news is, that these superfoods are good enough to take care of your skin inside out. Topical application of some superfood can work as well as they do when consumed.

If there is anything such as beauty foods for skin, then superfoods have to be one of it. They are great for the skin as they are rich in nutrients and antioxidants. While most superfoods have soothing properties some which are rich in fatty acids and other replenishing ingredients help enrich and strengthen the skin surface.

So, if you’re looking for the right food for a clear, glowing or healthy skin, then superfoods (either eating or applying) should be your choice. According to experts at India Gate, here are a few of the many superfoods which can enhance the appearance of your skin:

Flaxseed

Flaxseeds are rich is Omega 3 fatty acids which have a moisturising and calming effect on the skin. Powdered flaxseeds when mixed with water forms a gooey texture which helps tighten large pores on the skin. Flax seeds are filled with essential nutrients such as vitamin A, B and E which are very good for the skin and helps prevent acne formation.

Chia Seeds

A favourite smoothie ingredient, the benefits of applying chia seeds to the skin are many. It prevents acne, premature wrinkles and sagging of the skin. Use it as a face wash or as an exfoliator, the selenium in chia sees limits cell damage from free radicals while helping your skin absorb the vitamin E. It also works great as a hair mask.

Quinoa             

Studies show that when quinoa is applied topically, it inhibits an elastic protein that helps maintain firm skin. Use quinoa in your pack to keep your skin moisturised and prevent it from sagging. Quinoa also has the right texture to exfoliate your skin. It is rough enough to remove dead skin cells and at the same time isn’t too harsh on the skin. The amino acids and anti-oxidants in Quinoa help clear any blemishes on the skin.

Sprouted brown rice

The starch of sprouted brown rice can cure skin damage and eczema. The protein content in sprouted brown rice is a natural exfoliant which helps the natural shedding process of skin to give you a smoother clearer skin tone.

 Turmeric

Known for its healing properties and cosmetic benefits, this spice is a natural source of anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory components. These characteristics provide glow and luster to the skin. The curcumin found in turmeric has calming and curing properties therefore it help in curing skin ailments like psoriasis, acne and various other dermatological conditions.

If you enjoyed this story, you might be interested in reading this article about the health benefits of eating meat.