By Dr. Jen Newell, ND

Your complexion and the appearance of your skin serve as a physical monitor of your overall health. How you look on the outside reflects how your body is functioning on the inside.  Your diet is a powerful tool in achieving healthy, youthful skin.

1.    Acerola cherry juice is a great fluid to include because it is high in vitamins A and B, which are vital for a smooth, clear complexion. Acerola cherries contain 65 times more vitamin C than oranges, which is beneficial at reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and plumping the skin.

 2.    Coconut water helps to plump the skin. It is one the best hydrators because of its electrolyte balance. It is also rich in potassium which supports cellular cleansing

 3.    Avocados are amazing for the skin both as food and topically in cosmetic applications. They are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamins A, E and D, which nourish the skin.

 4.    Radishes are high in sulphur, silicon and vitamin C. These 3 nutrients work together synergistically to boost collagen and make your skin glow. They also promote detoxification.

 5.    Watercress acts as an internal skin antiseptic and cleanser. It helps to cleanse the blood and increases circulation so its nutrients are distributed efficiently.

 6.    Pumpkin seeds contain zinc, an important mineral for healthy skin. This skin-loving mineral helps to control the production of sebum (oil) in the skin, and aids in regulating some of the hormones that create acne.

 7.    Green tea is incredibly high in antioxidants, which you want by the truckloads to eliminate free radicals that damage skin cells and cause signs of aging – such as wrinkling saggy skin. Polyphenols are the antioxidant skin-superstars found to rejuvenate dying skin cells.

 8.    Dark berries (ie. Blackberries, cherries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries) are high in vitamin C, and many other antioxidants. These antioxidants protect skin cells from free radical damage. When protected from damage at the cellular level, the skin looks younger for longer.

9.    Brazil nuts are an excellent food for skin health as they are a good source of selenium. Selenium improves skin elasticity, fights infections and wards off acne. They also contain vitamin A, E and zinc, which have an anti-aging effect and improve skin health.

Join Dr. Jen Newell this Thursday for her talk, ‘Restore your Glow – Natural Skin Care’. Please register here.

Dr. Jen Newell is passionate about helping people embrace health, feel amazing and easily incorporate “real” food into their busy lives. Her mission is to make health accessible and achievable, and to inspire patients to live an active, vibrant and healthy life.

Jen has a clinical focus on digestive health, food sensitivities and healthy nutrition; mental health and stress-related illness; women’s health, hormone balance and fertility; optimal aging; and dermatology. She focuses on integrating healthy foods into one’s diet in a medicinal and therapeutic capacity and providing individuals with nutritional support that is easy to incorporate into a busy day.

main image via Dan Foy via Compfight