Need To Know...Eat For Glowing Skin

Glowing skin doesn’t come from a bottle.

Like with your desire to lose weight or to see the best results in your training, achieving that ‘glow’ about you is primarily down to your diet.

Use all the expensive lotions and potions you want and fork out for that extortionate bird-poo facial if that’s what you want, but if you’re eating foods high in sugar and fat and low in nutrients then it’s probable that you’re not seeing the benefits these trendy products claim to provide.

Scientific research has found that the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and essential fatty acids in some foods can offer benefits to both skin and overall health.

Top foods to include in your diet are:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

High in antioxidants - vitamins A and E - and essential fatty acids, just a tbsp a day is found to aid resistance to UV damage, support natural skin repair and restoration and hold onto moisture. In terms of your help EFAs can lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease and help minimise inflammation

Berries

Often hailed for their antioxidant profiles this one should come as no surprise. Superior in neutralising cell-damaging, skin-aging free radicals, berries are also abundant in vitamin C and thus the increase the formation of skin-plumping collagen

Eggs

Particularly the yolks for their offering of biotin. Usually connected with promoting healthy hair and nails the benefits of this B-vitamin extend to your skin. In essence biotin is involved in the breakdown and distribution of fatty acids which translates to healthy, glowing skin

Oats

Great for filling you up and aiding weight loss, the fibre content of this cheap breakfast staple also promotes a healthy gut which in turn encourages anti-inflammatory ‘good’ bacteria. Their minimal effect on blood sugar levels – when enjoyed minus a mountain of sweet toppings – also helps prevent flare ups

Nuts

High in vitamins, antioxidants and healthy fats almonds, brazil nuts and walnuts are all great for achieving a healthful hue. Just one large brazil nut can provide you with your RDA of selenium!

Dark Chocolate

Wheyyyy! The antioxidant flavonols found in dark chocolate – 70% cocoa solids or higher – help protect against the sun’s rays, increase blood flow and it’s even argued they reduce stress hormones that can inevitably lead to wrinkes

And finally…don’t forget the importance of keeping hydrated! When it comes to skin care those who drink enough – 2-2.5litres of water per day – have better blood circulation, more supple looking skin and their body’s natural detoxification system is allowed to do its job properly.