9 superfoods for younger skin and a beautiful you

Keep them guessing your age. Here are the healthiest foods for younger skin you must try

Foods that can take years off your skin

It is said that time and tide wait for none. And if your skin has begun to show fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots—the classic signs of ageing—you know exactly what that sentence implies.

But before your skin-ageing worries add to the worry lines on your face, hear this. The secret to ageless skin lies a lot in the food you eat.

"The most powerful strategy you can employ to have a beautiful skin is to pursue optimal nutrition. Skin requires abundant supply of nutrients to look and feel it’s best,” says Karishma Chawla, nutritionist, Eat Rite 24X7, Mumbai.

Here’s a list of foods that provide optimal nutrients to give you a smoother and younger-looking skin. Make the most of them to make your age a mere number. Start GALLERY.

Dairy products

Low fat milk products such as paneer and yogurt are excellent sources of protein and do wonders to the skin. "Skin is made up of proteins. Hence, fuelling the skin with complete, or first class protein enhances it. Lean proteins can be consumed in all the three meals of the day,” says Chawla.

Avocado

This super fruit boosts the brain cells and keeps the skin younger too. Avocado is rich in omega 3 acids, other essential fatty acids and vitamin E. All these are pre-requisites for a supple skin.

Papaya

The colourful, sweet papaya is loaded with antioxidant properties as it is rich in vitamin A and carotenoids and vitamin C. It prevents the harmful effects that free radicals have on our body.

Chickpeas

A good dose of zinc is present in a helping of chickpeas. Zinc plays a vital role in maintaining the immune system. “Our immune system plays a very important role in the way we feel—physically, mentally and as well as emotionally, and the skin reflects all of these,” informs Chawla.

Pumpkin

The humble pumpkin has a host of important skin-friendly nutrients such as vitamin A and zinc, to name a few. This versatile vegetable can be made in different ways, so it isn’t tough to include a lot of it in your diet.

Salmon and Tuna

These fleshy, oily fish are great sources of lean protein and omega 3 fatty acids, both needed for great skin and hair. Pan fry or grill fillets of these fish to get the most of the taste and nutritional value.

Pomegranate

Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, pomegranates are known to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, taking considerable age off your skin.

Sweet potato

This tuber offers the body beta-carotene which is essential to maintain the pH balance of the skin and give it a fuller look. It also enhances skin regeneration.

Nuts

The skin loves nuts. The zinc, vitamin E and omega 3 acids present in almonds and walnuts improve skin health and make it appear younger.

Preeti Athri

Muma