Does Diet Affect the Aging of the Skin?

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We’ve all heard that diet affects overall health. But, did you know that what you eat can directly impact how quickly your skin ages?

Clinical research has definitively linked poor nutrition to skin aging. Keep reading to learn more about this link and how you can optimize your nutrition for youthful-looking skin in Tampa. 

How Diet Affects the Skin

The skin requires a variety of nutrients, proteins, and fatty acids to remain healthy. Various nutrients support the skin’s natural repair process, allowing it to regenerate damaged skin cells. Certain nutrients also help ward off free radical damage, which is known to accelerate the skin aging process.

While your skin can receive certain nutrients through topical products, like targeted serums, it’s also essential to consume them through food sources. 

The Most Important Nutrients to Prevent Skin Aging

Carotenoids, Flavonoids, and Tocopherols

Carotenoids, flavonoids, and tocopherols are all potent antioxidants that prevent skin aging from free radical damage. Food sources of these antioxidants include:

  • Spinach and kale
  • Bell peppers
  • Tomatoes
  • Berries
  • Cherries
  • Citrus fruits  
  • Nuts and seeds

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps protect the skin against free radical damage and prevents photodamage. Vitamin C serums are a staple in many skincare routines, but consuming natural sources of this potent antioxidant (like citrus fruits and tomatoes) also supports healthy, youthful skin. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to support skin hydration and oil production. They also aid the skin’s ability to generate collagen, an essential protein for strong, youthful skin. Food sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish, nuts, seeds, and plant oils. 

Foods to Avoid for Skin Aging

While a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help slow skin aging, consuming high amounts of surgery, processed, and fried foods can accelerate it. Foods and drinks to limit for youthful-looking skin include:

  • Candy, soda, and foods containing added sugar
  • Alcohol
  • Fried food
  • Red and processed meat
  • Trans fats

At Hermann Aesthetics & Wellness in Tampa and St. Petersburg, we can help you retain radiant skin into your later years. Reach out to us today for a consultation!