7 Foods For Radiant Skin, Strong Nails and Luscious Locks

When it comes to achieving clear glowing skin, an inside-out approach is truely the best way. Natural beauty comes from what we put into our bodies, not just what we put on the outside. Below we share our favourite beauty foods...

1. Dark Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are an anti-ageing powerhouse. The darker greens, such as kale, spinach and arugula, are the best for you as they have higher levels of antioxidants. Beta-carotene, a common antioxidant found in dark leafy greens forms Vitamin A in the body, an essential nutrient for healthy skin and hair.

2. Berries

Berries are high in Vitamin C, an antioxidant known for helping to combat ageing and aid in collagen production. Collagen is the protein that gives the skin is elasticity, keeping it smooth and wrinkle free. 

3. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, hazelnuts and pumpkin seeds, are high in the kinds of fat that nourish our skin and promote healthy shiny hair. They are also rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant known to protect against sun damage and help combat dark spots and wrinkles.

4. Carrots

This humble veggie is one of the richest sources of beta-carotene. The conversion of beta-carotene into Vitamin A within the body helps with neutralising of free radicals to prevent wrinkles and pigmentation and promote an even skin tone. Drinking carrot juice on a regular basis can also help get rid of old scars and skin blemishes.

5. Green Tea

Green tea contains high amounts of antioxidants as well as enzymes, amino acids, and phytochemicals like polyphenols. These all help to improve you skin's complexion, flush out toxins, heal scars, promote hair growth and reduce inflammation. The polyphenols found in green tea further help to neutralize harmful free radicals, which can cause significant damage to the skin and accelerate the ageing process.

6. Avocado

One of the most nutritious foods out there, avocados provide the perfect balance of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals to nourish your skin and help protect it from sun damage. The healthy fats found in avocados also help to heal, nourish and improve the overall condition of your scalp and hair.

7. Wild Salmon

Oily fish such as salmon are rich in essential omega-3 fats. These reduce inflammation and provide nourishment to the skin. To benefit from oily fish you should be eating it at least 2-3 times a week. Oily fish (also including sardines, mackerel, anchovies and trout) are one of the few food sources of Vitamin D, essential for the absorption of calcium to build strong nails.

Article by Kavisha. Kavisha holds a Masters Degree in Wellness and is a nutrition expert at our Kitsilano store.