A lot of your skin’s glow comes from what you eat. Agreed, the application of skincare products, creams and serums affect its look. Facials and treatments enhance its appearance. But the inner glow starts with what you put into your mouth. This nutrition is very important for the skin’s health. Therefore in this blog, we have curated the 7 top foods for glowing skin.

1. Fatty fish

Any type of fatty fish like herring, salmon, mackerel etc is great for the skin. Why? Because these types of fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. 

What is the use of Omega-3 fatty acids?

-     They are essential in keeping your skin moisturised, supple and thick.

-     Omega-3 fatty acids also work on problems like acne, redness and inflammation.

-     They are known to reduce the skin’s sensitivity to harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.

-     Autoimmune skin conditions like lupus, psoriasis etc may also be combated with omega-3 fatty acids according to some studies. 

2. Avocado

Avocado is a wonder fruit. In the last couple of years, it has become a hot favourite among the uber-cool people of the world. From avo-on-toast to guacamole, smoothies to desserts, avocado has found its way into savoury as well as desert tribes. But here’s why it must be eaten for your skin:

-     Healthy fats in Avocado help to keep the skin moisturised and flexible.

-     This helps with supple and soft skin.

-     Avocados may also have compounds that help protect you from UV rays damage.

-     Avocado is also a good source of Vitamin C and E.

3. Sunflower Seeds

This is a unique food and belongs to the group of nuts and seeds. Sunflower seeds are packed with a variety of nutrients that include Vitamin E, zinc, protein and selenium. All of these are very good for your skin and help you maintain a glowing, youthful appearance when eaten regularly. Many people include sunflower seeds in their salads for crunch, while you can also use them as a handy noon snack or just to munch while watching the TV. 

4. Soy

Soy is rich in isoflavones, which is a group of compounds that benefit the skin greatly. They help in improving the skin’s elasticity and work on reducing fine lines and wrinkles, so a natural anti-ageing remedy. Studies also suggest that soy helps improve collagen, texture and skin dryness, especially for post-menopausal women. What’s more, isoflavones are known to protect the skin from UV rays and reduce skin cancer risk.

5. Dark chocolate

Wouldn’t you want this one on your ‘healthy-eating’ list for the skin?! Well, dark chocolate is one very rich source of antioxidants. Cocoa, in its raw form, is phenomenal for the skin and helps to give you more hydrated, thicker skin over a long-term consumption. A study shows that when cocoa powder-rich foods were consumed for 6-12 weeks, the skin became less sensitive to sunburns, looked less scaly and felt less rough. Dark chocolate is also known to improve blood flow, in turn bringing more nutrients to your skin. 

To reap the most benefits of this dark chocolate, make sure that you are eating a bar that is at least 70% or more cocoa. Try and consume a bar with less sugar or even sugar-free for best results.

6. Green tea

Green tea can be counted among the top foods for glowing skin. From chocolates to smoothies to macaroons, you can find healthy green tea-rich deserts everywhere now. But what does green tea do for your skin? 

-     Well, it is amazing to protect your skin from ageing and damage.

-     Green tea is very rich in antioxidants that come in the form of a group of powerful compounds called catechins. They work for your skin’s overall health.

-     Green tea protects your skin from sun damage, ageing, skin roughness and dryness.

-     But, try and drink your green tea without any milk as studies have pointed out that milk may reduce its potency.

7. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are one of the best sources of citric acid or Vitamin C. This vitamin is essential in promoting skin health. Vitamin C protects your skin from sun damage, works on brightening your skin tone, smoothening its texture and promoting overall glow. From limes to lemons, oranges to grapes, you have a wide list to choose from. These fruits also help keep your skin hydrated, supple and hence looking younger. 

It is, however, recommended that you drink your citrus fruit juices freshly squeezed and not packaged. Packaged juices usually come with a ton of preservatives and sugar. Not good for overall health.

Now you know how to make changes in your eating habits, what foods to incorporate into your meals and how to plan your snacking? So start changing it up and help your skin restore its natural glow. Start including these top foods for glowing skin in your diet!