How to Have a Healthy Glowing Skin ?

Skin is the largest organ of the body. Therefore, one should take care of its nutritional needs. In addition, one should minimize stress, which negatively impacts the health of the skin. As we age, a good diet, exercise, stress reduction, and a good night sleep are key to healthy and glowing skin. These are discussed below in more detail:
  1. Diet - The skin requires different kinds of foods to maintain its health and glow. These are:
    • Foods rich in antioxidants - Antioxidants prevent damage to the skin due to free radicals, and hence slows the aging process. Fruits and vegetables are very rich in antioxidants. Also, they provide different pigments to the body essential for maintaining a healthy skin. Increasing colorful foods in the diet such as apples, papaya, watermelon, berries, cherries, broccoli, cabbage, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, carrots, cranberries, avocados, onions, garlic, etc is recommended. Consume 3 to 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
    • Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids - Omega fatty acids prevent inflammation of the skin. Vegetarian sources rich in omega fatty acids such as flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, almonds etc are helpful in maintaining good skin. The non-vegetarian sources such as eggs, fish, lean meat also contribute to healthy skin.
    • Foods rich in fibre - Fibre in diet enables good metabolism, which is important for a glowing skin. Increase intake of whole foods (whole cereals, whole grains), fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds) in the diet.
    • Water - Water is critical for a glowing skin. It keeps the skin hydrated from both within and outside. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.
  2. Exercise - One of the most important factor contributing to skin health is exercise. Exercise releases chemicals such as endorphins, which makes you feel happy and look good. It also promotes the collagen formation in the face, which is natural plumping agent for skin. One should exercise 30 minutes 5 days a week, depending upon the age, physiological and medical status.
  3. Stress Reduction - Reduce stress by walking, listening to music or involving in some activities such as dancing, gardening, reading, etc. The stress reduction helps the body to relax and feel good. Feeling good inside is the key to looking great and having a flawless glowing skin.
  4. Good Sleep - A good sleep of 8 hours a day relaxes the body, and is important for beautiful skin.
In addition, avoid over exposure to sun, as sun tan may sometimes damage the skin. When exposing the body to sun, always use a sunscreen with SPF 40 to 50, or the one recommended by a dermatologist.

Comments

  1. UnknownMarch 9, 2011 at 10:08 PM

    Having healthy skin is easy if you have proper nutrition. Always include vitamins and supplements in your diet; check out Vitamins Canada now.

    ReplyDelete

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