Your mother was right. What you eat really does affect your complexion. In her book Smart Medicine for Your Skin, dermatologist Jeanette Jacknin pinpoints which foods to eat to combat specific skin conditions.



Eating yellow or orange fruits and vegetables helps prevent sun damage. These foods are packed with beta-carotene and antioxidants, like vitamins C and A. Combined they act like a natural sunscreen.

Recent research has shown that drinking green tea can also prevent sun-induced skin damage. Green tea contains polyphenols which reduce cell damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. (A word of caution: these foods should supplement not replace topical sun screens).

To combat wrinkles, include almonds, brown rice and olive oil in your diet. These foods contain high amounts of vitamin E which can protect the cell membranes of the skin. In fact, a study conducted in Australia recently found that people who eat these foods have the least amount of wrinkles.

To improve the skin’s elasticity and prevent thin skin, eat whole grains, seafood and garlic. These foods are rich in selenium which can slow the signs of aging by preserving the suppleness of skin tissue.

Dr. Jeanette Jacknin is a board-certified dermatologist and is a member of the Phoenix Dermatology Society. She is also a member of the Gladys McGarey Holistic Physicians Group.

Adapted from Reader’s Digest


Smart Medicine for Your Skin"

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