There is not a single fruit or vegetable I have encountered that I do not like.
I tend to think of fruits and vegetables as non-negotiable features of a healthy diet because all fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins and minerals needed to maintain proper bodily function.
When it comes to skincare, what you eat matters.
“Everything you eat becomes a part of not only your inner being, but the outer fabric of your body as well…” says Samantha Heller, MS, RD, a clinical nutritionist at NYU Medical Center in New York City.
There are certain foods I eat that actually create joy within me when I realize their benefits. I get the impression that my skin, and body, are thanking me. I have a habit of looking up all the benefits of whatever fruit or vegetable I am eating to motivate and perpetuate healthy eating patterns. It also amazes me to know how a single food holds so many life-sustaining properties.
I especially seek out food containing vitamins C, K, and E.
Vitamin C is an integral part of the skin’s makeup. It stabilizes collagen levels in the body and contributes to skin elasticity. Vitamin C works to repair damaged skin, and its antioxidant properties protect the skin from aging and UV light.
My favorite fruits and vegetables to eat for their vitamin C content (this one is easy to incorporate!):
Kiwi, Lemon, Cherries, Blueberries, Broccoli, Bell Peppers, Papaya (this one is AMAZING for skin), Beets, Sweet Potatoes
Vitamin K is important for bone health and proper blood clotting. Since vitamin K is a healing agent, it may repair the skin and help in the production of collagen.
Avocado, Tomatoes, Figs, Cucumbers
Vitamin E has strong antioxidant properties that protect ageist oxidative damage which aids the skin in healing wounds. Vitamin E works as protection for the skin.
My favorite fruits and vegetables to eat for their vitamin E content:
Bell Peppers, Mango, Apricots, Sweet Potatoes
*Bonus Tip: The color orange indicates high vitamin A content. Vitamin A is converted by the liver to form retinol which prompts the production of new skin cells and hydrates skin cells. Eat fruits and vegetables that are orange for healthy skin!