While some people think the secret to beautiful hair, skin and nails are found at your local pharmacy, many overlook foods that provide the natural way to achieve the same results. It may sound difficult, but a lot of these foods are either already incorporated, or can be added to your daily diet.
Here are 12 foods that contain valuable vitamins, minerals and proteins that can help you lead a happier, healthier and more beautiful lifestyle.
1. Omega-3's. Most popular for being found in salmon, can also be found in walnuts, spinach, kale and flax seeds. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids have been known to protect against heart disease and is commonly taken in a supplement form, Fish Oil. Omega-3's also provide the skin with a natural glow and can help with redness due to blemish inflammation.
2. Edamame. Edamame, the sushi restaurant staple, helps to keep your skin firm. They help prevent wrinkles and is high in calcium, iron and protein. It has also been discovered that they can alleviate migraine headaches and regulate blood sugar.
3. Whole grains. Switching to whole grains will add zinc and iron to your diet. By substituting white bread with whole wheat bread your red flood cell count will increase and you'll get a healthy dose of B vitamins.
4. Water. Water is the key component in your body. Staying hydrated daily will help you to have nice hair, skin, nails and even your eyes. The amount of water you should consume varies on your weight, but it can range anywhere from 2-3 liters.
5. Low sodium. Foods that are high in sodium cause you to bloat and breakout. Sticking to a natural diet and avoiding processed foods will make a difference you can both see and feel.
6. Kale. Kale is an antioxidant rich vegetable that contains iron and lutein, a vitamin found in leafy green plants, that can help prevent wrinkles. Kale can be added into mixed greens to complete a salad, or baked for a crispy snack.
7. Vitamin C. Oranges, strawberries and tomatoes are all known to boost your immune system. Incorporating these fruits into your diet will help repair dry, damaged skin and prevent acne scarring. It is also available in a daily supplemental form.
8. Calcium. Calcium is not only good for bone density, but it also aids in hair growth. Adding skim milk to your diet will knock calcium off of your list as well as give you a protein fix.
9. Antioxidants. Antioxidant rich foods like cherries, berries, green tea, pomegranates and spinach can help prevent breakouts. Incorporating antioxidants into your every day diet is very simple.
10. Avocados. Avocados are a good source of biotin, which is not just good for your hair, but your skin as well. They help to prevent dry skin, weak hair and strengthen your nails. Avocados can also be used topically to treat dry skin.
11. Green tea. This popular beverage is must due to its high levels of polyphenols. Polyphenols, by definition, abundant micronutrients in our diet, and evidence for their role in the prevention of degenerative diseases such as cancer. For your best results, try to drink 3-4 cups a day.,
12. Beans. A protein source, it helps to repair cells that have suffered damaged. During digestion, protein breaks down into amino acids, a major component of cells. Amino acids help to accelerate the regeneration of skin cells.
