A common skin issue that we all dread as much as pimples is acne. While we tend to think of acne as tiny breakouts on the skin, it in fact includes a whole bunch of skin problems such as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, etc. Acne is basically an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles get clogged due to the accumulation of excess oil and dead skin cells, resulting in skin problems. As horrible as it may seem, with proper care, you can get rid of it and prevent scars. Rather than resorting to numerous cosmetic products that promise to treat acne, you need to instead tend to your diet.
Any skin expert will tell you that the secret to beautiful skin lies in following a balanced diet along with a healthy lifestyle. With the right choice of food items, you can give your skin the much needed health boost and prevent inflammation and harmful free radicals from creating havoc. If your skin is prone to acne, then including a certain food ingredients in your daily diet can help you keep a check on it. With inputs from Preeti Seth, cosmetologist at Pachouli Wellness Clinic, and Prabhu Mishra, cosmetologist at SCI International Hospital, we list down 10 such ingredients:
1. Brown rice
Brown rice is a rich source of vitamin B, protein, magnesium and several antioxidants. Vitamin B acts as a stress buster for the skin, which then helps regulate hormone levels and prevent the likelihood of breakouts.
(Also read: Expert Tips Every Bride-To-Be Should Follow For Glowing Skin)
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2. Garlic
Garlic is another superfood that helps fight inflammation. Garlic is full of a naturally occurring chemical called allicin, which works against many harmful bacteria and viruses, and prevents breakouts and acne.
3. Broccoli
It is the perfect skin clearing food. It contains properties like vitamins A, B complex, C, E and K. These antioxidants fight against free radicals that cause skin damage and ageing, thus keeping the luminosity of your skin.
4. Fish
Known to be a very good source of omega-3 and 6-fatty acids, fish is excellent for an acne prone skin. These acids reduce inflammation in the skin. Sardine and salmon are particularly good for the skin.
5. Nuts
Deficiencies in minerals such as zinc and selenium have been linked to acne. Most nuts contain selenium, vitamin E, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, calcium and iron, which are all essential for healthy skin.
6. Fennel
If you are looking for the perfect natural skin cleanser, then eat fennel. This licorice-tasting root vegetable can improve digestion, reduce swelling and help to flush out excess fluids and toxins from your body.
7. Green tea
Many studies show that green tea helps fight acne. Drink more green tea throughout the day, and try applying cooled tea bags or a cloth dipped in cooled green tea to acne-prone areas of your face for 10-15 minutes.
8. Red grapes
The fruit and seed contain powerful natural chemicals and antioxidants that have shown to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. On top of this, grapes can also help to control the side effects of allergic reactions on the skin.
9. Alfalfa sprouts
It looks like grass, but these sprouts are packed with valuable, skin-clearing nutrients. Alfalfa sprouts contain live enzymes which help fight inflammation.
10. Foods rich in vitamin A and carotenoids
Carotenoids are used in anti inflammatory drugs for treatment for acne. Natural rich sources of carotenoids include bright and colourful foods like carrots, spinach, kale, cantaloupe, mangoes, papaya, peas and tomatoes. Fresh peaches and red bell peppers provide modest amounts of carotenoids.
Eat right to keep your skin healthy and beautiful.
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With inputs from IANS
