Growing up we are taught to take care of our skin at all costs. Taking care of your skin can be done in many different ways – from sun protection to anti-aging beauty treatments. Did you know that food plays an important role in skincare as well? Some ‘healthy’ foods we eat can affect our complexion and even make problematic skin worse, even causing breakouts!
It’s time to look at the foods we’re eating and more so, how they’re prepared because believe it or not, healthy foods’ can possibly be damaging your skin.
Good foods for healthy skin contain high water content that will hydrate your skin. Drinking a lot of water has its added benefits as you know, but there are lots of foods packed with hydrating ingredients too. If you make a conscious effort to drink more water and increase your intake of water-filled foods, you’ll be able to keep your skin hydrated and even keep your complexion clear.
Steer clear of foods with high salt content or that contain damaging substances because they can cause many problematic skin conditions to flare up.
Some foods that could be causing harm to your skin and their healthier alternatives
Fresh and fruity
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Fresh fruits and vegetables are great but not as good for your skin as you might think. Strawberries, mangoes, pineapple and spinach may be packed with vitamins, but they can also stimulate histamine in the body which results in an itchy, red complexion.
You can try cooling foods such as apples, celery, cucumber and coconut that have a high water content which soothes inflammation.
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Grill Master
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Unfortunately eating too much-grilled food can have some negative effects on the skin thanks to high levels of advanced proteins. These damaging proteins can impact on collagen production, causing sagging.
Opting to bake instead as an alternative cooking method is a great way to enjoy the same flavours and goodness. Just make sure to go easy on the oil.
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Tea Time
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A rosacea (redness) flare-up can really knock your confidence. We might be guilty in thinking that alcohol and spicy food are the only triggers but the real culprits are hot drinks like tea and coffee, which can also make the blood vessels dilate, causing redness on the skin’s surface.
Swop your morning coffee for a glass of water flavoured with a squeeze of lemon and some mint. This refreshing drink will not only wake you up but kickstart your metabolism too.
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Pasta night
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It might be the ultimate comfort food, but eating pasta can cause breakouts. It increases the body’s glucose and insulin levels which results in added stress on the liver. It’s also believed that certain pastas release a hormone that is linked to acne.
You can try quinoa, which is packed with protein to replenish and rebuild the skin, or vegetable pastas like zucchini.
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We fully believe in ‘everything in moderation so these are by no means any hard and fast rules but rather tips and tricks to start your journey to healthier-looking skin.
Compiled by: Amy Steenkamp
