GIRL'S TIP: Nourish Your Skin From The Inside Out

Tried all the latest skin care products still with no results? Well how healthy your skin, is depends on how well you eat. Skin protects our bodies from external stresses and helps us to regulate our body temperature. Our skin contains important proteins such as collagen, elastin and keratin, which can all be influenced by our nutritional intake. For smooth and healthy skin the nutrients you need to include in your diet are:

• Vitamin A: Inadequate intake of vitamin A causes dry scaly skin and poor wound healing. Found in: liver, egg yolks, yellow and orange vegetables and fruit, dark green leafy vegetables, full cream dairy products.
• B Vitamins: Deficiencies in these vitamins can cause dermatitis including cracking in the corners of the mouth. Found in: wholegrain breads and cereals, legumes, seeds, some vegetables and nuts, dairy products and yeast spreads.
• Zinc: Inadequate intake of zinc can lead to poor wound healing and dry skin. Found in: Red meats, chicken and seafood.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and helps fight against free radicals. Inadequate intake can lead to bruising, bleeding gums and poor wound healing. Found in: Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit & tangerines, tomatoes, strawberries, green vegetables & capsicum.
• Essential Fatty Acids: These include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and inadequate consumption can lead to eczema, dermatitis and dandruff. Found in: Oily fish, vegetable oil, linseeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts.
• Water: Dehydration can lead to dry skin, especially after exposure to the sun.

To get the smooth and healthy looking skin that you desire, nourish your body with fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and some protein in the form of seafood, chicken, meat or low-fat dairy products. If you avoid foods from a certain food group, you may be placing yourself at risk of nutrient deficiencies, which in extreme causes can lead to problems with your hair. Finally, don't forget to drink plenty of water and your skin will thank-you for it.