Foods to Eat to Keep the Face Healthy and Wrinkle-Free

No foods completely halt the aging process. However; certain foods, when consumed regularly, have the ability to slow the signs of aging. These foods improve the skin's texture, tone and elasticity. Instead of purchasing high-cost beauty treatments, improve the quality of your skin from the inside out with healthy choices.

Fats

• Omega-3 fats, also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids, aid the skin by improving the muscle structure that supports the skin and combating dryness. In addition to maintaining healthy skin, omega-3 fats improve brain function, reduce cholesterol and improve pain associated with arthritis. While omega-3 fats are necessary for the proper functioning of the body, all the omega-3 fats must be consumed through dietary choices. Some widely-available sources include salmon, tuna, walnuts, avocados and flax seeds. Because this is such a critical component to health, many people choose to supplement their diet with fish, krill or flax oil.

Carbohydrates

• Fruits and vegetables are a skin-healthy source of carbohydrates.

  While whole grains are a smart part of a healthy diet, their benefits to the skin are minimal. However; if you build your diet around fruits and vegetables as your primary source of carbohydrates, the benefits to your skin are huge. First, these foods contain high levels of antioxidants. Similar to the effects of oxidation on a car's exterior, contaminants in the environment such as pollution, excessive sun exposure and a less-than-ideal diet can age your skin. Antioxidants combat these effects and, to an extent, can prevent premature signs of aging. Certain antioxidants such as carotenoids actually allow you to spend more time in the sun without burning. Secondly, fruits and vegetables are high fiber, high water content foods. Not only do the antioxidants combat cell degradation, this extra fiber and water also helps the body remove the toxins. Some common carbohydrate foods with high levels of antioxidants and fiber are leafy greens, berries, apples and sweet potatoes.

Protein

• All of our cells are made from protein, including our skin cells. Because of this, it is important to choose protein sources that are highly nutritional and benefit the body. Protein sources that have been deep-fried actually accelerate the signs of aging and should be avoided. High-quality protein sources are low in saturated fat and optimally include omega-3 fats. Some commonly-available healthy protein sources include legumes, tofu, nuts, seeds, poultry with the skin removed, seafood and lean cuts of beef, and pork. To maintain nutritional integrity, grill, bake, broil or braise these foods.

Superfoods

• Superfood is a term used to describe a food with above-ordinary benefits to the body. Some foods that make the short list when considering their effects on the skin include cereal grasses like wheat grass, beans and lentils, green tea and blueberries. These foods benefit the skin by improving common skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis and wrinkles.

Water

• Although water is not considered a food, it is one of the most important things you can consume for healthy skin. Even very low levels of dehydration increase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Proper hydration actually plumps the skin and visibly reduces these signs of aging.