Making your hair and skin healthier can start as soon as your next meal. While there are lots of products we can buy to make our skin and hair look better from the outside; the best way to get smooth skin and shiny hair is to improve the foods you’re putting into your body!
Just like every part of your body, the processes that support strong vibrant hair and skin are dependent on the foods you eat. Other factors like stress, lack of sleep, smoking, etc. can affect how your hair and skin look – but assuming you are sleeping well, don’t smoke and are managing your stress – the foods you eat can make a big difference.
1. Walnuts: These crunchy delights have a ton of omega 3 fatty acids, Biotin, and Vitamin E – three ingredients that are crucial for your hair and skin. Biotin and Vitamin E helps protect your cells from damage; and too little biotin can lead to hair loss. Eat a handful of walnuts a day and you will be good to go.
2. Spinach: Rich in iron, beta carotene, folate, and Vitamin C; as well as free-radical-fighting antioxidants make spinach a powerhouse food. Spinach protects your skin and hair from the sun’s UV rays (yes you still need to wear sunscreen). Trade your lettuce for spinach in any dish, or saute it with garlic for a quick and healthy side.
3. Lentils: These legumes are full of protein, iron, zinc and biotin – key ingredients for healthy hair and skin. They are a great staple for vegetarians, since they provide both protein and iron (two ingredients vegetarians may not get enough of). Saute them with spices, or throw them into a soup for a hearty meal. This lentil dish works great as a delicious side or a main course for a light dinner!
4. Low fat Greek yogurt: Low fat Greek yogurt is high in protein, vitamin B5, and vitamin D. Pair it with some granola and fruit for a healthy breakfast in the morning.
5. Blueberries: The antioxidant power of blueberries protect you from premature aging: they help reduce inflammation, minimize acne and wrinkles, and increase circulation. They are also full of Vitamin C, which can prevent hair breakage. Add them to a smoothie, to oatmeal, or on your cereal every day.
This was originally posted on PlanetZuri on 11/28/14.
