So we’ve been talking about dry skin a lot this week, which got us thinking: are there foods you can eat that will help your skin stay hydrated? Turns out there are. Here are a few that we found.
- Water - Obvious, we know, but if you’re struggling with dry skin issues and not drinking three liters of water a day, this is where you should start. Your body needs plenty of moisture and most of us aren’t drinking enough.
- Fatty fish - Fatty fish like salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help keep skin supple and moisturized.
- Avocados - These green wonders contain healthy omega-6 fats and antioxidants. They work together to keep your skin moisturized, flexible, and healthy.
- Nuts and seeds - Walnuts in particular are packed with omega fatty acids and your skin uses these fats to build its own oil barrier, but seeds and nuts in general are good sources of protein, vitamins, and minerals too.
- Sweet potatoes - These tubers have beta-carotene, which the body uses to protect the skin, and vitamin A, which your body uses to heal its outer layer.
- Olive oil - This natural oil is packed with vitamin E and beneficial fats that your body uses to protect and nourish your skin.
- Cucumbers - These seemingly simple plants make the list because they have a high percentage of water and antioxidants, making them your skin's new best friend.
If you struggle with dry skin you’ll want to avoid food with a lot of salts. Excess alcohol will dehydrate you. Oily fried food made this dubious list, too, along with coffee and black teas. Basically avoid foods with high levels of sodium, sugar, or trans fats or drinks with a lot of caffeine or alcohol.
Healthline has a nice list with some other foods and a nice video. What did we miss? Did we get anything wrong? Do you have any recipes that combine these plants with purpose to make a skin-moisturizing power dinner? We want that recipe!
