Wearing warm clothes and savouring delicious food are the two main side effects of winter. It is natural for our body to be craving more food during winter, and if you are also relishing hot chocolate and sweet cookies this winter you are not alone. But the fact remains that no weather warrants eating unhealthy food. It is in fact more important that you eat healthy food in winter to keep your body high on energy and keep your skin hydrated. As we drool over tasty snacks in winter our skin takes the major hit and causes dryness and dullness. There are many options for healthy food, but it is often difficult to choose the right one which is suited for your skin. But you don’t have to worry about it because we have got you covered, here is the comprehensive list of all the items you should add to your food list:
Green veggies: Although there is no bad time to have green veggies, they should be a staple in your daily diet. But winters in particular are the ideal season to have green veggies as they are packed with various proteins and nutrients required for humans. Broccoli, Spinach, Kale, Lettuce etc., is the most readily available yet very effective vegetables for your body in chilly weather, they are loaded with nutrients such as Vitamins, Iron, Magnesium and various other amino acids which are very good for the skin.
Nuts and seeds: Various nuts and seeds which are widely popular in daily use are packed with tons of protein. Protein is very essential in winter to keep you fit and healthy and if your body is healthy it naturally shows on your skin. Nuts such are Almonds, Pistachios, Cashews, walnuts, etc., are a very good source of protein and good fat, which makes you feel full and keeps you energetic throughout the day. Also, seeds are a good source of fiber and protein to keep your skin glowing in winter, add flaxseeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds to your diet to get the desired results.
Carrots: Carrots are a great source of antioxidants as well as other nutrients such as Vitamin A and C. Adding carrots to your diet can surely do wonders for your skin, especially in winter. Carrots are also loaded with lycopene and beta-carotene, which prevents your skin from harmful UV rays from Sun, even though the Sun is not very harsh in winter but UV rays can still damage the skin.
Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits are essential in your regular diet in winter due to the high content of vitamin C in them. Vitamin C is very important in keeping your skin smooth and glowing through the winter. Fruits such as oranges, sweet lime, kiwi, etc., are the most popular and readily available citrus fruits, thus adding them to your diet seems like an obvious job. Another food item which is from the same family is lemon which is also very much healthy and should be in your food routine. Have a glass full of lemon water in the morning empty stomach and see the wonder on your skin yourself.
Berries: Antioxidants save your skin from the radical elements which can damage your skin, and especially in the winter adding food with antioxidants in it is a very sensible move. And what is a rich source of antioxidants? Yes, it’s berries! These small fruits are very rich in antioxidants, which are like a boon for your skin. Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, etc., are the most commonly used berries and are very rich in those skin care nutrients which you seek.
Cucumber and Celery: One of the main reasons why our skin dries out in winter is that it is not hydrated properly. And it’s natural considering the humidity in the air makes us drink less water. But cucumber and celery mostly contain water, which keeps your body and in turn your skin hydrated. And if your skin is hydrated properly the natural glow comes as a result.
Tomatoes: This small red fruit is loaded with healthy nutrients which are essential to keep your skin looking great during winter. The reason why tomatoes are a staple in any salad is that it is very tasty and easily accessible. Eating a raw tomato daily can supplement your regular requirement of vitamins C and A. Even adding tomatoes to your cooking can not only improve its taste but also give you the proper skin care you need.
Yoghurt: Yoghurt is a great source of Calcium and Vitamin B complex which keeps your skin smooth and supple. Yoghurt is also great for your digestion and it is proven that good digestion is related to good skin. A good source of protein as yoghurt is can be your perfect way to start the day. Just a bowl of Greek yoghurt in the morning, which comes in various flavours, can be great for your skin care in winter.
Dark chocolate: Chocolate is enough to make you drool right? And yes dark chocolate is as healthy for you as anything. Dark chocolate is a good antioxidant, that makes your skin better during winter. It also has flavonoids which protect your skin from any UV damage by preventing free radicals. Dark chocolate is also proven to improve blood circulation, which is not only good for your skin but for your body also.
Green tea: Although green tea is not technically a food item, a drink, adding this magic potion to your diet in winter is very important. A great source of antioxidants is very clinical in making your skin glow and makes it smooth. Having green tea multiple times a day can make you feel full so that you don’t have to eat unwanted unhealthy snacks.
So add the above natural and tasty food items to your diet and see the magic happen to your skin this winter. You should always check for allergies before consuming any of the items and you should be good to flaunt your flawless skin all winter.
