Confession: I was wearing makeup before I was actually washing my face. Ew.
Those teenage years were rough and they just didn’t make health and beauty choices like they do today! Everything was a little more one-size-fits-all…. The cakey foundation (Maybelline Dream Mousse, anyone?), the thick eyeliner, THE ST. IVES APRICOT SCRUB?!?! Bless our hearts.
Thankfully since then, I’ve not only cleaned up and upgraded my skincare routine, but I’ve also upgraded the way I feed and nourish my body since those teenage years and even early 20s.
I got several questions and requests on my Instagram a couple of weeks ago about skincare and foods that support skincare, so I thought this would be the perfect time to dive in!
Along with a balanced lifestyle (which yes, still includes treats, sweets, and snacks), I’ve used my knowledge on women’s hormones to help clear and brighten my skin. Part of that has included eating a variety of nutritious foods with properties that balance my hormones, provide important nutrients, and nourish my skin.
Here are my Top 10 Favorite Foods for Skincare:
1. Berries: Raspberries are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which protect your skin against environmental damage. Additionally, raspberries are high in naturally occurring salicylic acid, which helps unclog your pores while still retaining moisture.
Ounce by ounce, strawberries actually have more Vitamin C than oranges! Vitamin C stimulates your natural collagen production, which keeps your skin healthy, supple, and glowing. They’re also high in potassium, which increases the natural moisture and hydration of your skin.
There are several other types of berries that are packed with antioxidants and vitamins too, which are perfect to snack on or add to a dessert or salad.
2. Chia seeds: Chia seeds are an awesome superfood! They’re packed with so many incredible nutrients, including Omega 3, 6, and 9, magnesium, and zinc. Omegas (especially omega 3) make your skin and hair luscious, help protect against sun damage, may speed up wound healing, help heal acne, and more. Magnesium helps repair and regenerate skin tissues and zinc can help keep inflammation and acne at bay.
The fiber in chia seeds is also an important way to support your body’s elimination. Elimination (yes, I mean pooping-- nothing can be TMI when it comes to women’s health) is how your body metabolizes estrogen. If that gets sluggish, it can contribute to acne and a variety of other hormonal imbalances.
Making chia pudding with raspberries and strawberries is an amazing way to have a snack that is packed with benefits and satisfies your sweet tooth! Try this recipe!
3. Salmon: Salmon is one of the best sources of Omega 3 we can get! It also contains plenty of VItamin D, which is wonderful for skin growth and repair, and has anti-inflammatory properties too.
Photo by Micheile Henderson on Unsplash
4. Bone Broth: Bone broth is a simple way to consume collagen, which is amazing for the skin and digestive tract so that you can absorb and use all the great nutrients you’re eating. Bone broth also contains electrolytes, so it’s a great way to boost your hydration with a warm beverage as the weather gets cold.
5. Cashews: Cashews are awesome acne and inflammation fighters. They’re high in selenium and Vitamin E, which hydrates skin and reduces inflammation. They’re also high in zinc, so they can help heal old acne and prevent new acne from occuring. Plus, they taste creamy and are easy to snack on!
6. Turmeric: Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory spice that boosts healing, makes your skin glow, and can even be used to boost your immunity too. You can add this to so many savory dishes or even drink a golden latte! It can also be added to a mask and applied directly to the skin.
7. Dandelion greens: Dandelion greens are bitter greens, but they have unbelievable benefits! They help support the liver to metabolise estrogen and prevent hormonal acne, and studies also show that they encourage your natural collagen production, help heal irritation, and prevent sun damage.
8. Avocado: Say it with me now-- “WE KNOW GUAC IS EXTRA!” Did you know avocados are a natural source of biotin? Biotin is great for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Avocado also increases your skin elasticity and prevents damage with Vitamin C and Vitamin E.
9. Nutritional Yeast: This cheesy superfood seasoning has become a staple in my kitchen for comfort foods! Among its many benefits, Nutritional Yeast can combat acne and strengthen your nails. It’s also a great source of Vitamin B12 for energy support and folate, which is important for fertility and hormonal health.
10. Dark chocolate: Believe it or not, dark chocolate is great for your skin! Rich in antioxidants, magnesium, iron, selenium, and zinc, this is a dessert that we can all get behind! It feels indulgent, makes you feel good, and makes your skin glow all at the same time.
Which are your favorite foods on the list?
What foods are you going to add more of to your meals?
Looking to make some changes and upgrade your life in 2021? I offer 1:1 coaching, which includes guides & resources on food for your lifestyle, goal setting, and more! Book a free Discovery Call with me and let's talk!
I also love sharing tips on hormone balancing, skincare, and more on my Instagram, so be sure to follow me and comment on my latest post about what you're interested in & want to see more of!