The holidays are a fun time of year, there seems to be a party or gathering of friends around every corner. We all want to have glowing skin when we meet friends from the past, but after buying presents, decorations and holiday food and drinks we may not have the funds to get an expensive facial. Not to worry, if you eat the right foods your skin will be glowing like JLo’s without all the pricey creams and facials! Below are my favorite tips for healthy, glowing skin all year round!
1. Drink water! I know I say it all the time, but drinking water is essential to a beautiful complexion! Although there is controversy related to this topic, many believe hydrating with water will help skin look younger and decrease wrinkles. Water also helps to remove toxins from pores which may help prevent acne breakouts. Drinking water is much more budget friendly than any other beauty product on the market today!
2. Stay away from too much caffeine! Caffeinated sodas, teas and coffee seem to be the go to drinks for many Americans. Although a little caffeine everyday is not bad for you and may even help prevent cancer, too much will dehydrate you and leave your skin looking less than radiant. Instead of giving up all caffeine, drink an extra glass of water for each cup of coffee or tea you consume.
3. Stay away from too much alcohol. I know that this is not a popular thought (especially during the party season), but excessive alcohol consumption causes dehydration in the body and less than brilliant skin. Keep alcohol consumption to one drink per night or two at a party and always remember to rehydrate between drinks.
4. Eat a variety of fruits and veggies. Fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamins that will help nourish and hydrate your skin. Berries, spinach, carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes are my favorite fruits and veggies for clear, radiant looking skin. Eat a variety of types and colors of fruits and veggies in your diet for maximum benefit.
5. Cut out the sugar (at least cut down on your sugar intake). This one is definitely hard around this time of year, but during the week, try to limit refined sugar intake as much as possible. Although it’s tough to completely cut refined sugar out of your diet, remember that it will age your skin. Next time you have a sugar craving, grab a piece of fruit, it will satisfy your sweet tooth while giving you the benefits of skin enhancing vitamins.
6. Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. Eating omega-3 fatty acids are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but are not consumed enough in the typical American diet. These essential fatty acids help to decrease inflammation in the body, reduce risk of heart disease, decrease symptoms of arthritis and are thought to relieve dry, itchy skin to reveal a healthy glow. To increase omega-3 fatty acids in your diet and enjoy all the benefits try to eat more flax seed, wild salmon, tofu, soybeans, hemp seed and walnuts.
Try these beauty enhancing tips to feel your best throughout the season!