Is Your Diet Affecting Your Skin?

I’m not going to lie, I’m one of those people who can eat whatever they want with little effect on my body. I realize this is rare and I’m super lucky, but I recently I discovered that my skin does not have the same ability to ward off unhealthy habits.  “You are what you eat” is a saying I wish I had listened to a few months ago when my skin started breaking out like crazy. Even as a licensed esthetician who strives for health and wellness, I still have a weakness for tasty treats. I often find myself over-indulging in pizza and sweets, knowing full well this could cause consequences like inflammation and lots of other skin concerns.

If this sounds like something you’re going through, don’t give up hope! Here are some skin-saving tips that are easy to incorporate into your daily life. Bonus: If you follow this advice, not only will your skin clear up, but you’ll notice an overall improvement in your health.

Eat foods high in alkaline

An acidic body is a sick body, if you are not maintaining a healthy pH level it can show on your skin. When out of balance you may experience more activity. Foods high in alkalinity will help reduce breakouts and clear skin. Up your intake when it comes to foods like spinach, tomatoes, watermelon and asparagus.

Eat more foods rich in fatty acids.

Omegas found in foods like salmon, walnuts, olive oil and eggs, help build proteins and are great for anti-inflammatory purposes. Increasing your intake of these foods will help prevent aging and keep your skin clear.

Stop smoking and binge drinking.

Smoking and binge drinking are terrible for your skin and you just shouldn’t do it. If you are going to indulge in alcoholic beverages from time to time, keep in mind that beer is the most hydrating of all the spirits and a glass of red wine is heart healthy and chock-full of anti-oxidants.

Lemon water

Detoxing helps eliminate toxins and gives your body and organs a chance to recharge. Lemon is a blood purifier and aids the body in eliminating toxins easier. It is also a great source of  Vitamin C, which does wonders for skin.

Up your anti-oxidant intake

Along with protection against environmental aging, a diet full in anti-oxidants help prevent heart disease and promote a healthy immune system. The blood will absorb anti-oxidants from the food you consume and results  in a nice  youthful glow. The best ones to snack on are berries, carrots, red grapes and dark leafy greens.

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