The skin, being the visible organ of the body, shows best the conditions that can be found inside. And sure, you can make your skin look and feel better, but the best way to fix your skin issues is to start changing your skin treatment from the bottom up, starting with your lifestyle. This inside-out technique includes getting more sleep, drinking plenty of water, avoiding toxins, engaging in regular exercise, and, most importantly, rethinking your diet.
According to experts, those with a diet that consists of plenty of fresh fruits and veggies have the best odds of improving their skin health. So if you’re desperate to reduce acne, oiliness or pigmentation issues, consider going plant-based.
It’s All Thanks to Antioxidants
Plant-based foods are full of active compounds such as vitamin C, vitamin E, polyphenols and phenolic acids. All of these bioactive antioxidants reduce inflammation and promote the structural build of the skin. According to studies, foods like nuts are also rich in essential fatty acids that also play an important role in skin health. Additionally, veggies like carrots, squash and sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene which helps with pigmentation. Scientists also agree that there’s no “one magical food that fixes skin”, but it’s crucial to improve antioxidant levels by eating a variety of plant-based foods. On the other hand, focusing on meats just worsens chronic inflammation in the stomach, causing various skin issues like hormonal acne.
Foods That Battle Wrinkles
The mentioned vitamin C is associated with the reduction of wrinkles, one of the biggest issues in skin appearance. This antioxidant reduces oxidation caused by pollution and the sun. It is found in a wide variety of plant-based foods like mango, kiwi, citrus, red pepper and broccoli. Tomatoes, oranges, pomegranates, grapes, melons and kale are also good for the skin. If you think it’s too complicated for you to cook with these ingredients, you can always have plant-based healthy meals delivered to your address and enjoy all the benefits without any effort. These meals will not only provide you with all skin-important nutrients but also leave you more time to rest and enjoy life, which is also good for your skin.
Soy to the Rescue
Soybeans are rich in isoflavones which are similar to estrogen, a hormone that lowers in menopause. This decrease in estrogen is one of the main culprits for wrinkling and dryness of the skin. And plant-based diets can often be rich in soy, so expect to see some great improvements and prevention.
Have a Fresh Cup of Coffee
Besides plant-based foods, drinks like coffee, tea and cocoa are also loaded with antioxidants. Studies done on coffee shows that it lowers hyperpigmentation and improves skin hydration, eliminating scaly skin and dryness. So about 2 or 3 cups of coffee are all you need to look fresh and feel invigorated. But when drinking cocoa, coffee or tea, make sure to avoid sugar. Sugar doesn’t change the number of antioxidants in the beverage, but it does add calories and simple sugar levels, which are not beneficial for anyone.
No Dairy, No Acne
For many people, dairy is the main trigger of acne. And going plant-based and ditching dairy can be a great way to battle your skin conditions. Eliminating cheese might be a painful sacrifice, but the rewards are great. Many people will realize that ditching dairy can clear out their skin and reduce acne. According to many dermatologists, their patients started seeing results less than a month after eliminating dairy intake. They also report less bloating and brighter skin once going vegan or just dairy-free.
Don’t Fret the Detox
For those who are just now starting the transition from carnivore to herbivore, it’s important to know that there’s a transition period to go through before your skin starts glowing. Once you ditch meat and dairy, the body might still be holding on to some toxins that need to go out through the skin. If your body goes through a breakout after going plant-based, just stay patient and let it come and go naturally. During this time, you might also experience stronger sugar or dairy cravings as your body goes through withdrawals.
If you want to help your skin glow and also enjoy a healthier life, don’t hesitate to go plant-based. This decision will improve your life in many ways and make your skin healthy, smooth and spotless.
Diana Smith is a full time mom of two beautiful girls interested in health and beauty related topics and alternative medicine. In her free time she enjoys long walks in the woods, hard exercising and preparing healthy meals for her family.
