It’s what’s inside that counts, right! Check out these 8 superfoods for glowing skin and strong hair.
Are you looking for more focused help to get naturally glowing skin and healthy, strong hair? Work with me!
So how do we make ourselves even more amazing inside to get that naturally glowing skin? When we consume nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods, our bodies become healthy from the inside. This is where all beauty fundamentally starts anyway, You want healthy, even glowing skin, You want clear, bright sparkling eyes? A diet including these superfoods will result not only a less acidic, less inflammatory state, but glowing skin, strong hair and nails and clear eyes. Here are the superfoods that I eat every day for glowing skin and bright eyes:
Pumpkin seeds : Pumpkin seeds not only taste great, but they have been shown to help with general antioxidant support, most notably from vitamin E. Most diets, the Standard American Diet in particular, are low in minerals, but pumpkin seeds are loaded with them, so I try to incorporate them as often as I can. Pumpkin oils and extracts have unique antimicrobial benefits from the lignans in these seeds. Pumpkin seeds have also been shown to have cardiovascular benefits, decreasing blood pressure, and benefits with benign prostatic hyperplasia(i.e. prostate gland enlargement). These seeds are loaded with the mineral zinc, which is important in healthy skin, strong hair, and equally strong nails. Sprinkle the on everything or add this pesto into your spring repertoire.
Dark leafy greens (spinach in particular) : Spinach is a great source of minerals, making it well known for bone and muscle health. Spinach contains special phytonutrients that have been shown to help decrease inflammation in the body, while also keeping our skin bright and healthy by fighting free radicals. As with most fruits and vegetables, spinach contains a great amount of fiber, which helps keep our digestive system moving, keeps us fuller for a longer period of time, and releases a steady flow of energy into our bodies.
Hemp seeds : Hemp seeds are a fantastic way for plant-based dieters to get enough protein and healthy fats into their system without much volume. They can essentially be used in any dish because of their small size and relatively neutral flavuor. A good source of healthy fat and protein content, just three tablespoons contains about 11 grams of protein!
Lemon : Lemons mostly contain vitamin C, which is a water-soluble vitamin found in many fruits and vegetables. The vitamin travels nicely through our bodies in both inside and outside our cells, neutralizing the free radicals that can cause oxidative stress to cells that can result in signs of aging. Lemons may also help protect against other inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Avocado : I love it. It’s high in healthy fats and fiber, both of which are satiating. Avocados also contain vitamin C, K, folic acid, magnesium, potassium, copper, and manganese. Now instead of the infamous Avo + Toast, try Avo + Collard wrap.
Blueberries : Blueberries have been shown to help with cardiovascular health, cognitive benefits, eye health, overall antioxidant support and insulin resistance. Because blueberries contain so much fiber and so little sugar, they have a low glycemic index, which means better blood sugar regulation and steady energy. And, since blueberries help reduce blood fat levels, they’ve been labeled as a “belly fat burning food,” which is also great for digestion and “de-bloating,”
Quinoa : Contains fiber, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, and about 8 to 9 grams of protein in one cooked cup! And it is so easy to make taste amazing. Here’s my hands down absolute fav quinoa dish.
Nutritional yeast : Ok, I am obsessed with these yellow flakes. Obsessed. I love the Red Star Brand. This strange, yet addictive powder contains roughly 9 grams of protein per 2 tablespoons, along with heaps of B vitamins, which strengthen hair, skin, and nails. My fav use, couldn’t be easier either … Spinach , pumpkins seeds, red cabbage, avo. Drizzle with a small amount of olive or avocado oil, a splash of balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with nutritional yeast.
Check out all the healthy swaps to make at every mealtime (including snacks!) below: