When it comes to glowing skin, there are so many things that can make a huge difference, including quality skincare products and drinking (at least) 2L of water in a day. It should come as no surprise that everything you eat also affects your skin in a big way.
We’ve all had one of those weeks where we’ve chowed down on processed foods or those high in sugar and fat devoid of fibre, leaving us with dull, washed out skin and sometimes a breakout.
Below are seven foods you should be adding to your grocery list ASAP to level up your glow game during this year’s winter period:
Almonds
Almonds are perfect for your skin during cold winter days as they are full of powerful antioxidants, anti-aging agents, and vitamin E. The combination of these helps to nourish and hydrate the skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and protect your skin from UV rays (but that’s no excuse to skip your SPF!). If you’re not a fan of plain nuts, try swapping to almond milk in your morning beverage, or incorporate them into your granola or sprinkled crushed on a salad… your skin will thank you!
Ginger
Ok, so this one is a no-brainer. We all know ginger as the cold and flu fighting superfood, but research also shows that ginger can have a soothing effect on skin too. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties found in ginger also help your skin shine from the inside out, giving us another reason to hit up those ginger shots or juices in the winter months.
Miso
We all know yoghurt is the holy grail for probiotics, and probiotics are great for your skin and digestive system, but that’s not exactly helpful if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant. So, we’re drawing your attention to miso instead, which has a bundle of gut friendly bugs that will help aid your natural and ethical skincare in keeping you glowy and wholesome. It’s also just another fab reason to grab some Japanese for lunch!
Spinach
Leafy greens like spinach, collard greens or kale, along with broccoli and brussel sprouts, are rich in a little something called Vitamin K, an absolute powerhouse vitamin that can improve blood circulation. Spinach also has bucket loads of zinc, which can reduce inflammation that causes puffiness and help prevent acne, and is loaded with iron (hello, Popeye!) which can help reduce dark under-eye circles. Spinach is also super easy to incorporate into a morning smoothie, too, making it easy to weave into your daily routine.
Green Tea
This crowd-favourite tea is loaded with skin-nourishing antioxidants, including anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal damaged skin and keep blemishes at bay. Work a green tea into your schedule every morning – it’s perfect to consume straight after room-temperature water and lemon which will help alkalize your gut before you bring in the green tea to start working its magic.
Dark Chocolate
Yes, you read that correctly. Chocolate can help your skin (as long as you’re eating the right type!). Dark chocolate is rich in ingredients that fight UV damage, aid blood circulation and release endorphins in your brain. These include flavanols, which fight free radicals, and keep the skin supple and soft. Consider this permission to binge on your favourite dark chocolate tonight.
Avocados
You didn’t think we could finish this article without mentioning the humble avo, did you?! Just when you thought the avo couldn’t possibly bring more joy to your life, in its swoops with high levels of Vitamin E, an integral ingredient in maintaining healthy and glowy skin, particularly as it improves barrier function and hydration. Time to start whipping up some guac!
As the drop-in temperature can dry out the skin, by keeping up your all-natural skincare regime and incorporating these superfoods into your diet, your skin won’t even know winter has arrived! For more tips on how to care for your skin this winter, check out our blog sharing our ‘Top tips for maintaining your glow through winter’.