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There's a reason why the saying "You are what you eat" has been around for so long: there's truth to it. A balanced diet of good-for-you foods can help contribute to long-term health. An added bonus: they help your skin look fabulous, too! Certain foods can make your skin look younger and smoother. Here are some that can help you get a youthful, vibrant complexion...and take years off of your appearance.
Berries
Berries -- particularly blueberries -- are a superfood, a food that provides healthy benefits naturally. Although they're tiny, berries are jam-packed with antioxidants, which help fight signs of aging. They also help stave off facial tissue damage, which causes fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Pop a handful of berries into your mouth every day when they're in season to reap their healthy-skin benefits.
Low-Fat Dairy
Low-fat dairy helps contribute to smoother skin. It's rich in vitamin A, a nutrient that nourishes the skin and promotes a glowing complexion. Making the right food choices will make your skin glow, look more even and appear younger. For breakfast or a snack, try low-fat yogurt to get the added benefit of live cultures, which also promote digestive health. Says WebMD, foods that are good for your digestive track are great skin picks, too.
Green Tea
Sip a mug of green tea every day to max out its anti-aging properties. The wondrous tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it fights puffiness and facial bloat, both which result in smoother, younger-looking skin. Because of its anti-inflammatory power, green tea can also be used as a quick, natural remedy after overindulging in rich foods or alcohol. And it can benefit your complexion's long-term health, too; according to WebMD, some dermatologists believe it can reduce the risk of skin cancer. It helps ward off the damage caused by UV rays through sun exposure.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are rich in selenium, a mineral that contributes to healthy skin. When your bod experiences high selenium levels, you're less prone to surface and tissue damage from UV rays. Reducing UV damage can help save the appearance and health of your skin. UV rays not only can cause skin cancer, but they cause skin to age and sag; preventing this results in smoother, youthful-looking skin. Eat whole-wheat breads, pastas, cereals and muffins in moderation to benefit from selenium. Can't stomach gluten? Selenium is also in Brazil nuts, tuna and lean turkey.
