Healthy, glowing skin has always been a hallmark of attractiveness and is a powerful indicator of overall health for both men and women. In contrast, skin that is dry, oily, or inflamed signals that something is amiss inside the body.
“Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body’s internal needs, including it’s nutritional needs,” Dr. Georgiana Donadio, founder and director of the National Institute of Whole Health in Boston, told WebMD.
Studies show that when the skin is nourished by certain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it will appear healthier and younger. Here are five nutrients to keep your skin glowing:
1. Omega-3 fatty acids
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) found in omega-3 oils help repair and maintain moisture and flexibility in the skin. Since the body can’t manufacture its own EFAs, they must come from the diet, including oily fish, shellfish, sunflower oil, walnuts, and flax seeds. In addition to making the skin soft and supple, EFAs also treat many ailments, including heart disease, arthritis, and cancer. EFAs are also available in supplements.
