If you read the papers, watch TV news or the Dr. Oz show, then you know that doctors, nutritionists and scientists seem to be constantly changing their opinions about what we should eat. Deciphering the conflicting reports is sometimes so confusing that you’d rather just dig into a good old fashion cheeseburger and fries and call it a day. But before you give in and consume large amounts of simple comfort foods, let me offer a few straightforward suggestions about getting the most from what you eat and improving your complexion.
To begin with, just about every baby boomer, along with his or her parents, remember how our trusty Food and Drug Administration (FDA) once trumpeted the idea that the four food groups were best consumed according to the rules of a neat little pyramid, basically telling us to pile on the carbohydrates and take it easy on the proteins. There is no doubt that the pyramid system was a good idea, but over time, many nutritionists and doctors came to the conclusion that the pyramid needed a new look. Years of research has proved that the best diet formula for staving off everything from the visible effects of aging to heart disease and cancer is to eat adequate amounts of protein, make good choices about simple carbohydrates, and choose fruits and vegetables rather than refined, processed foods.
While you are limiting the amounts refined, processed foods and sugar in your diet, you may also need to increase the amount of protein you eat. Research shows that women, in particular, tend to forgo protein in favor of carbohydrates because of their unique brain chemistry. Women naturally have lower levels of serotonin (a chemical in the brain) than do men. The level of serotonin in women drops even more during the menstrual cycle. Serotonin is the feel-good neurotransmitter that makes it possible for us to experience joy, serenity, and other gifts of life. When your serotonin load falls below your comfort zone, one of the best ways to get it flowing again is to indulge in a big bowl of pasta, a hefty slice of cake, or some other high-carbohydrate fare. But the more protein that you have in your diet the less craving you will have for carbs. And while you are adding more protein to your diet, the healthier your skin will look.
FACE-SAVING FOODS
If you are coping with skin problems, simple dietary changes can heal you from the inside out. For acne, eat foods rich in vitamin A and Beta-carotene, such as melons, spinach, and broccoli. Avoid processed and fried foods.
For dry, mature and sun damaged skin, add foods rich in Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) such as salmon, fresh tuna, and flaxseed oil. Add plenty of fresh fruit and berries to your diet. For peaches and cream smooth skin add a half a cup of plain yogurt to your diet each day.
If you suffer with Roseacea, eat lots of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels spouts, and cantaloupe. This will help strengthen the capillary walls and help heal broken veins.
Making dramatic dietary changes is difficult so gradually try to add some of these food suggestions into your diet. Adding a little more protein, vegetables and fruits will help improve your skin and you will reap the benefits of a beautiful smoother and brighter skin in the future.