One of the best parts of summer is being outside all the time and soaking up sun. But getting in and out of a pool all day, struggling with sunscreen and sunburns, and running around and sweating doesn’t always leave your skin looking and feeling the way you want it to.
This list of foods can naturally help you keep your body’s largest organ healthy and happy, so you can hit the beach without worrying that you’ll damage your skin.
1. Dark Chocolate
Who says chocolate isn’t good for you? Dark chocolate boasts many health benefits—it has been known to prevent heart disease and act as an anti-depressant. It also does wonders for your skin. The flavonoids in chocolate help absorb UV light and leave your skin hydrated and healthy. Make some dark chocolate and avocado truffles to simultaneously indulge your taste buds and protect your complexion.
2. Pomegranates
As if it isn’t enough that pomegranates are delicious, refreshing, and juicy snacks that pack in serious brain power, this super fruit also has some skincare benefits. Pomegranates contain antioxidants that help reduce swelling and inflammation that result in a glowing complexion and clear skin.
3. Oysters
Feeling fancy is no excuse to let your skin suffer. So why not kill two birds with one stone and take care of your skin while out having a good time? Oysters contain tons of Zinc, and when combined with Vitamin C, it can help your body increase it’s production of elastin. Elastin is a protein in connective tissue that helps prevent wrinkles, which is important to think about as you get older and slather on the tanning oil.
4. Green Tea
Green tea has, since ancient times, been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for indigestion and an agent against toxins in the body, but recently, the rest of the world has become attuned to its healthy skin benefits.
Having a glass of green tea before bed has been known to help boost metabolism, and green tea anti-depressant properties have also been researched in coming years. Its tannic acid and theobromine neutralize UV effects and helps lessen sunburns.
5. Nuts
Nuts, particularly almonds and walnuts, contain a healthy amount of healthy fatty acids and vitamins. Vitamin E is a major component of nuts, its been said that it can help aid in protecting your skin from the sun. Try these almond butter energy balls to get your daily fix of protein and Vitamin E.
6. Fennel
Fennel is a delicious root vegetable, and one that is available all year round. It’s been known to reduce swelling, so sure you can eat it, but it’s best to apply topically. Use fennel to make a mask or a toner and de-puff the bags under your eyes before class the morning after Thirsty Thursday.
7. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are great — they’re sweet, hearty, and healthy. But did you know that vitamins in sweet potatoes can help reduce stress? And reduced stress is good news for your face.
8. Orange Juice
While orange juice can contain a lot of sugar, drinking moderate quantities of it has healing effects on the body. It’s Vitamin C helps to protect may help to reduce sun damage, but it also does help your body create collagen. Collagen is a protein that strengthens your bones, muscles, tendons and skin. As you age, your body produces less and thus the signs of aging begin.
Of course, applying sun screen and generally taking care of your health — like not smoking, keeping your stress level low and eating healthy — will help you get and maintain healthy skin. But these foods can help give you the extra kick you need at the end of the summer to get your glow on before heading back to school.