In this yuletide season when there is always so much to eat and drink, we think it is not out of place to share with you information on what to eat to maintain a great skin and stay healthy.
1. Wheat
A lot of Nigerians now consume wheat because of its overall benefit to the human health. It is generally more favoured by the older generation, though; as many young people now have a wheat-free diet. SECRET; whole wheat flour when mixed with water and made into thin paste is a great secret to fair soft skin.
2. Fruit
A cup of fruit juice widely believed to contribute to a clear complexion. Fruits like orange, avocado, banana, papaya (pawpaw), apple and mango are rich in vitamins A, B, C, E and rich antioxidants, and consequently work as anti-ageing agents. Apples, avocados and oranges contain collagen that helps plump the skin and reduce the appearance of ageing. Avocado Pear contains foliate which helps blood formation. It is also essential for oil generation and contains rich fatty acid which is high in all the fats your body needs. Papaya contains a special enzyme called papain that can kill dead cells and cure skin impurities.
3. Vegetables
Green vegetables like spinach are great sources of vitamins, iron, calcium, magnesium, fibre and omega-3 fatty acids; they are also low in calories. They are loaded with many beauty-enhancing ingredients.
Red vegetables, such as tomatoes, have a rich store of anti-ageing antioxidant called lycopene which is also very important for the body as it helps the body in several ways. Lycopene improves the quality of your skin and helps it to look younger. According to experts, in the process, it helps your body to fight against diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disorders and macular degeneration.
Garlic should not be forgotten, as garlic cloves contain the chemical allicin, which is known to protect you against harmful bacteria and viruses.
Eat a single serving daily to make your complexion smoother.
4. Sweet Potato
These root vegetables are a rich source of beta-carotene which is considered as one of the most important antioxidants that enriches your skin and keeps your skin and body smooth and supple. This cheap and widely available tuber is a must-have in every kitchen.
5. Fish
Fish is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, especially Salmon and Tuna. Fatty acids can reduce the development of free radicals and inflammatory agents that can harm the skin. The oils in fish help moisturise the body, and can be very beneficial to your complexion. Fish is also rich in Vitamin D which is great for the skin because it helps keep it fresh and promote an overall healthy appearance.
6. Mushrooms
These fungi are rich in vitamin D, selenium and antioxidants that protect your skin against wrinkles and discoloration caused by environmental damage. With anti-inflammatory properties, mushrooms can help improve acne, rosacea and eczema.
7. Nuts
Almonds, groundnuts, cashew nuts, etc are high in vitamin B complex, which help with not only skin cell restoration but also hair growth and dry skin. It gives your skin a more youthful appearance and will in turn help fight the early signs of ageing. Snacking on almonds will give your skin some of the good fats it needs to remain clear and radiant.
8. Animal Organs
They are popularly called ‘assorted’ in many parts of Nigeria. These are the kidneys, hearts, livers, etc. They are rich in Vitamin A, which helps to rejuvenate skin cells and helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. They also contain good amount of iron which helps the body deliver oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Nigerians are lucky as they are always readily available in our markets and local restaurants.
9. Dairy
Cheese, yoghurt, milk, etc. are found all around with local names like Wara (Yoruba), Nunu or fura de nunu (Hausa) even miliki. Cheese is high in calcium and helps to keep your teeth white and cavity-free. The protein you get from eating dairy foods helps the skin become firmer, so it’s more resistant to lines. Eat a single serving daily to make your complexion smoother.
10. Water
Talk about saving the best for the last! Drinking water regularly can provide the skin with the nourishment it needs to maintain a healthy complexion and help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Water hydrates the cells of the skin, eliminating waste products, which in turn prevents constipation.
Water helps your body detoxify by flushing away toxins and other unwanted chemicals within the body. It is the best and cheapest way to achieve great clear skin.
Credits: lifestyle.ng.msn.com