You are what you eat...

Is it true what they say?
Are you really, in fact THAT affected by what food you put into your body?
How about when it comes to skin?

The short answer is, yes.

In fact, if you are struggling with breakouts, there are some major food culprits that may be to blame:

• Sugar
• Dairy
• Carbs

I know, I know. WHY DO ALL THE BEST TASTING FOODS HAVE TO BE EVIL?! Trust me, I am right there with you. 
And I am by no means some human of perfection that never indulges in the occasional warm chocolate-chip cookie with a glass of milk. They are my weakness as much as they are yours. 

However, I would suggest that if you are consistently dealing with acne and have already hopped onto the good skincare train, it's worth cutting back on these foods as a next step. 
Your skin will thank you later.   

You may be wondering what some beneficial foods for your skin may be as well, and you're in luck because they do exist (some are even quite tasty... hang with me until the best ones at the end). 

• Salmon (or other fatty fish) 

Great for moisture, sensitivity,  redness, acne, inflammation, and healing.

• Avocado (my personal favorite)

Healthy fats help to moisturize your skin, vitamin E heals it, and the antioxidants in it help to protect your skin from the environment and sun damage.

• Nuts & Seeds (sadly, I am allergic to tree nuts)

They have high levels of nutrients, protein, vitamins, and zinc; all help to increase your skin's protective barrier.

• Sweet Potatoes 

This has what converts to high levels of vitamin A (good for anti-aging and exfoliating) as well as gives your skin a healthy glow.

• Broccoli

Has great vitamins and nutrients, but also has been shown to help aid in preventing skin cancer and sun damage.

• Tomatoes

Carotenoids - These help prevent against wrinkling of the skin and sun damage. Pair with a fat when consuming like cheese or olive oil because they help increase your absorption. I personally enjoy tomato with cheese and crackers as an occasional treat.

• Dark Chocolate (yesssssssss!)

Who needs a reason?! But, cocoa has amazing affects on the skin. It makes your skin more hydrated from the antioxidants, an increase in blood flow and circulation (important to absorb those nutrients), and a softer skin texture. Dark chocolate is ideal to avoid the less sugar packed alternatives like milk chocolate, of course. Pairs EXCELLENT with a nice red wine ...... ;)

• RED WINE!

One of my favorite occasional indulgences. It has resveratrol which helps reduce aging as well as slow harmful free radicals (pesky skin damaging). I do not recommend drinking red wine in excess obviously, as alcohol itself is NOT beneficial, however I will admit this is my drink of choice when I do take part.

There are other great foods for your skin, but I wanted to provide you with a nice start. There is so much you can do with the foods listed above!
If you find yourself struggling, I am here for you!!!
Check out my Pinterest board Healthier Recipes to get some ideas of things I have discovered that taste great!

Until next time my friends, and happy cooking!

     xo   jacquelyn