Top 7 Beauty-Enhancing Foods For Your Most Radiant You

“You are what you eat” isn’t just a saying; your cells literally do use what you eat to fuel and recreate you every day. Is your approach to diet and nutrition having the desired results? Consider adding these seven beauty enhancing foods for enhanced nutrition and a healthier, more gorgeous you:

1. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt has surged in popularity in recent years, and it’s no wonder; it is quite literally a superfood (as are many of the foods on this list.) Greek yogurt has twice the protein and half the sugar and sodium of traditional yogurt, giving you a satiated feeling longer. Probiotics are key to immune system and digestive health. Eating yogurt regularly is a natural way to beat bloat, stay radiant, suppress cravings and keep protected against illness.

2. Avocados

Avocados are one of the best foods for your hair, skin and nails. They are loaded with antioxidants, magnesium, potassium, fiber and folate, energizing the body and also assisting in nutrient absorption from the other foods you eat. They are also bursting with “good” fats (monounsaturated fatty acids) and help regulate cholesterol levels.

3. Leafy Greens

Generally the greener the lettuce, the better it is for you. Go for kale and spinach instead of iceberg. Leafy greens are among the most nutrient-dense of all vegetables, including K, C, A, B6, manganese and even fatty acids. Leafy greens are an antioxidant, cleansing the cells, boosting the immune system and strengthening bones, teeth and nails.

4. Berries

Berries, especially dark-colored ones like blueberries, are packed with vitamins and anti-inflammatory agents that protect the skin against wrinkling and aging. Free radical damage is minimized and the skin is energized and strengthened through enhanced collagen production.

5. Omega 3-Rich Foods

This is more of a category than a specific food, but this nutrient is so important, it warrants its own category. Omega 3 fatty acids enhance a wide range of health and beauty areas, including skin, hair, nails, teeth and bones. Omega 3s are integral in brain and heart functioning. They assist in cell renewal, which promotes anti-aging effects throughout the body. Some of the top omega 3 rich foods include oily fish (or take a fish oil supplement), nuts, nut butters, flaxseed oil and dark leafy greens. Many of these foods also contain vitamin E, which is essential for sun protection and eye health.

6. Whole Grains

While you should watch your carb intake for best beauty results, high-fiber carbs from organic whole grains enhance your health and radiance. Fiber is essential to a healthy gut microbiome and ideal digestive functioning. Small to moderate amounts of whole grains boost energy levels while keeping your blood sugar levels in a healthy range.

7. Dark Chocolate

Yes, chocolate made our list for beauty-enhancing foods! However, skip the milk chocolate and instead go for a 70% or higher cacao content. High-cacao chocolate is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, which fight cellular free radical damage. This enhances the skin, fighting the formation of wrinkles and other effects of aging. Eating chocolate also promotes the release of endorphins, boosting mood so and enhancing your natural glow.

Beauty is far from just skin deep; it begins with the foods you’re putting inside you. Favor healthy, beauty-enhancing foods like the ones on this list, and you’ll glow naturally from the inside out.