Remember how your skin felt when you were younger? The soft and radiant skin that you are born with is exposed to many pollutants, dust, and harmful substances over the years of growing up. Combine this with strong chemicals in cosmetics, toxic fertilizers in foods and harsh ingredients of shampoos and soaps. Your skin cells are damaged, surface uneven and skin-tone mismatched. A lot of people struggle with the constant outbreak of acne and blackheads because of poor eating habits and stress.
We have collected a few miracle foods which help heal the skin and restore its healthy glow. Of course, an overall balanced diet and exercise are the fundamentals of a healthy body and healthy skin.
1. Chia Seeds
Already considered a superfood, Chia seeds also happen to be a beauty superfood and on top of our list. Although not very easily available and also fairly expensive, small quantities of chia seeds can make a big impact on your overall health and skin. Rich in Omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants – these ‘magic seeds’ can improve your skin complexion, reduce inflammation, boost cell regeneration and reduce dark spots under the eye. The simplest way is to consume them as a smoothie. See visible results in less than 7 Days of daily consumption.
2. Goji Berries
Yet another miraculous gift of nature- these small red berries are easily available online and in some stores locally. They are rich in amino acid glutamine and stimulate HGH production. HGH is the hormone that helps your body heal and remains younger.
It is an anti-aging fruit ( also referred to as longevity fruit ) because it is loaded with Glutamine and help the body against early aging and skin deterioration. Rich in vitamins and minerals, these berries can easily be included as a part of your breakfast cereal bowl or oats intake. Make sure you track your body’s acceptance to the fruit and check for any allergies.
3. Quinoa
Pronounced Kee-no-ah, this super grain is among the most popular health foods in the world right now. Especially people who are looking for a rich source of protein from non-animal sources – rely heavily on quinoa for their regular protein intake. The quinoa seeds have the consistency of rice and are gluten-free.
It is also popular because it contains the nine essential amino acids apart from being a rich source of fibers, vitamin B, vitamin E, Iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.
These help restore skin health and the tyrosinase inhibitors decrease pigmentation and help maintain the skin complexion. It also effectively removes melanin deposits in the skin. Apart from being the savior for the skin, it also helps maintain hair quality and boosts weight-loss.
4. Triphala
A success story from the study of Ayurvedic medicine, Triphala has skin benefits that might surprise you. Triphala means ‘three fruits’ and it is because it contains powdered Amalaki (Gooseberry), Haritaki and Bibhitaki. Each having unique health benefits. It is a natural detoxification food for the internal cleansing and exterior healing of your body. It cleanses your digestive system and rids the body of toxins and harmful deposits.
This directly reflects on the skin’s improved complexion and clearing of acne. The high vitamin C content gives you a toned and tight skin. While it can be consumed as a powder/tablet and syrup – it can also directly be applied to the face as a healing mask. Triphala is indeed safe for most people, it is recommended to consult your doctor about the dose and usage of the churan (herb powder).
5. Tahini
This middle-eastern paste is made popular by its usage in hummus served at Mediterranean restaurants. You might know it as a delicious paste of sesame seeds used as dressing, dip, and recipes. This 4000-year-old recipe is popular for its vast range of health benefits.
The amino acids in sesame seeds combined with vitamin E, B, and fatty acids are great for cell rejuvenation. They also help delay aging and help maintain youthful skin. It is also a natural anti-fungal, anti-bacterial cream that helps reduce inflammation and breakouts. The nominal amount of zinc found in tahini helps repair damaged skin and restore elasticity.
6. Sattu
This Indian recipe is a flour mix of Bengal gram (variety of chickpea) and barley. In some rural areas, you might find vendors selling sattu as a drink on the roads. It is because the drink has a tendency to maintain body temperature and prevent overheating. The calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus are vital for a healthy body.
It is a rich source of iron which reduces hair fall and controls hair quality by boosting oxygen flow to the roots of your hair. You can make it as a sherbet drink or even try the popular North Eastern Litti Chokha which contain Sattu as a key ingredient. Drinking it regularly as sherbet will also keep your skin hydrated in the long run.
7. Aloe Vera
We all know about the popular skin-saving plant – the wise Aloe Vera. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals, active enzymes, amino acids, and fatty acids. All help keep the skin healthy, hydrated, nourished and glowing. However, the bigger question is about the application and consumption of Aloe Vera. Most people prefer applying the gel but you will be surprised to know that you can use the chunk of the gel inside the leaves as a part of salads, smoothies, and other recipes. Make sure you remove the yellow latex from the gel before eating (by washing carefully). Drinking Aloe Vera juice can also reduce the outbreak of acne and repair sun-damage from your skin. It also nourishes the hair and keeps overall digestion in check.
8. Avocados
The fruit is popular on social networks for being a millennial food trend. It has reached this status because of its amazing health benefits and unique taste. It is considered a recommended choice for the overall wellbeing of the body. Eating avocados regularly keeps the skin hydrated and helps reduces lines and wrinkles. It is a rich source of vitamin E and vitamin C. The keep the skin cells from getting damaged and give you a younger, supple skin. You can also make your own avocado-honey-yogurt mask for a home skincare routine!
