The secret to healthier hair and glowing skin?
It's not in your makeup case. It's in your diet. Nutritionist Lisa
Drayer, MA, RD, author of The Beauty Diet, says these superfoods will
give you gorgeous skin and beautiful hair.
Blueberries
This low-profile berry was ranked
number one in antioxidant activity by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
compared to 40 common fruits and vegetables. The antioxidants in
blueberries protect you from premature aging, so add half a cup to your
yogurt or cereal every day
Wild Salmon
Wild salmon -- not farm-raised -- is one of the best food
sources for omega-3 fatty acids, which helps keep your skin supple and
moisturized. Salmon also has selenium, a mineral that protects the skin
from sun exposure. The vitamin D in salmon keeps your bones and teeth
strong and healthy, too. You won't have a problem adding salmon to your
diet since there are hundreds of ways to enjoy this beauty superfood.
Try it grilled, baked, in your pasta, with a salad, in sushi, or just
with a side of asparagus.
Spinach
This leafy green vegetable is rich in nutrients and
antioxidants. Spinach is loaded with lutein, which keeps your eyes
healthy and sparkling. Spinach is also a good source of vitamins B, C,
and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Trade your lettuce for spinach, or saute spinach for a quick, healthy
side.
Oysters
The jury's still out on whether oysters are really aphrodisiacs,
but they are a good source of zinc, which aids in skin cell renewal and
repair. Zinc also keeps your nails, hair, and eyes healthy. Who needs
an aphrodisiac when you look and feel beautiful?
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the best source of the anti-aging antioxidant
lycopene. Surprisingly, lycopene in tomatoes is more easily absorbed by
your body when it is cooked or processed, so make sure to stock up on
canned tomato sauce, tomato juice, and ketchup.
Walnuts
You don't need to eat cupfuls of walnuts to enjoy their many
benefits: smoother skin, healthy hair, brighter eyes, and strong bones.
Get your daily dose of nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E
by eating a handful by themselves or throwing some in your salad, pasta,
or dessert.
Kiwis
This small, brown, fuzzy fruit is loaded with vitamin C and
antioxidants, which keep skin firm, help prevent wrinkles, and are great
for healthy bones and teeth. The antioxidants in kiwis also protect you
from cancer and heart disease.
Dark Chocolate
We won't judge you if you keep a secret stash of chocolate in
your purse or desk (or both). In fact, we recommend you do -- especially
if you're willing to share. Dark chocolate helps skin stay hydrated and
protects skin from sun damage, and contrary to popular belief,
chocolate does not cause acne. Before you make a mad dash to Godiva or
Ghirardelli, however, keep in mind that the best kind of chocolate has a
high flavanol content and should be at least 60 percent cacao.
Yogurt
One cup of low-fat yogurt has more calcium than a cup of
fat-free milk, which is great for your posture, nails, and teeth. Mix it
with fruit or granola for a healthy breakfast or that essential
mid afternoon snack.
Sweet Potatoes
You should be eating this superfood more often than just at
Thanksgiving. Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, an
antioxidant that fights aging.
Hate them mashed? Try them cut up and roasted with herbs or onions for an easy, awesome side.