Can you get glowing skin from the foods you eat during Thanksgiving?
The result will not be immediate: eat turkey and see radiant skin in the mirror. But many common Thanksgiving foods help benefit skin health.
Here are the ones to look out for this year. You might even want to go!
Does nutrition influence radiant skin?
For years, scientists were skeptical about the link between diet and skin. But with new evidenceThat skepticism is now giving way to acceptance of the idea that what you eat can affect how your skin looks and feels.
For example, we now know that dairy products can make acne worse in some people, as can a high glycemic index diet. We also know that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of skin cancer.
In a 2020 study, researchers noted: “Nutrition is intimately linked to skin health and is required for all biological processes of the skin, from youth to aging or disease.” They further state that nutritional levels and eating habits can “repair damaged skin and also cause damage to the skin.”
Scientists have discovered that diet can even influence skin aging. We have evidence that eating a lot of sugar, for example, can accelerate the signs of aging because it promotes the cross-linking of collagen fibers, which contributes to sagging skin.
We’ll learn more about this connection in the future, but for now it seems pretty clear that choosing a healthy diet can not only help prevent disease, but also slow aging.
7 Thanksgiving Foods That Contribute to Glowing Skin
1. Sweet potatoes
This orange delight graces many a table during the Thanksgiving holiday. And a good thing too, because they are packed with vitamin A, beta-carotene (the precursor to vitamin A) and vitamin C. All three of these nutrients help the skin produce collagen and elastin, which keeps the skin firm. ages.
2. Cranberries
These sweet red fruits are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants that help fight dangerous free radicals that can damage your skin. They also contain natural anti-inflammatories that can reduce redness and irritation.
However, keep in mind that many cans of cranberries are packed with sugar. Cranberry juice too, otherwise it would be too sour to drink. You can still get the nutrients from these sources, but if you’d rather avoid the high dose of sugar, try making homemade cranberry sauce with fresh or frozen cranberries (there are many recipes online), or visit your local Whole Foods store to buy a low sugar option.
3. Turkey
This main event at many Thanksgiving meals (except those enjoyed by vegans or vegetarians) is also good for your skin. Turkey is rich in zinc, which helps maintain collagen and elastin fibers, keeping your skin firm. Zinc is also crucial for healthy hair and nails.
Turkey is also rich in niacin, a form of B vitamin that can help your skin cells retain moisture. Niacin also improves the elasticity of your skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Spinach
You may not think about spinach around the Thanksgiving holiday, but many families enjoy this dark green vegetable on its own or in various salads or baked dishes. That’s great because spinach is great for your skin and your overall health. It is rich in vitamin A and vitamin C: two antioxidants that protect the skin from harmful pollution while improving collagen production.
Spinach also contains vitamin K, which helps strengthen blood vessel walls and may reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Finally, spinach is a water-rich vegetable and helps keep your skin hydrated.
5. Walnuts
Walnuts are full of essential fatty acids that can help plump the skin while reducing inflammation. If they’re not on your shopping list, add them! You can sprinkle them over your candied sweet potatoes, add them to salads or use them as a topping on your pumpkin pie.
Walnuts also contain zinc, vitamin E and selenium; all powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and ensure that the skin remains firm and protected.
6. Pumpkin
Go ahead and enjoy that pumpkin pie. It’s great for your complexion! It is so rich in natural enzymes and hydroxy acids that when you apply it topically it creates a gentle exfoliating treatment. (We don’t recommend doing this at the table.)
Pumpkin is a great source of vitamin A and vitamin C, which keep the skin firm and youthful. Like walnuts, pumpkin is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin E to nourish the deeper layers of the skin and keep it hydrated and plump. Pumpkin also contains zinc, which not only firms the skin but also protects it from the harmful rays of the sun.
7. Green beans
Some families love a good green bean casserole on Thanksgiving. If your family is one of them, you’re in luck, because green beans are an excellent source of vitamins C, A, K and manganese. These help stimulate collagen production and protect against free radical damage.
Green beans also contain the skin’s natural moisturizer: hyaluronic acid. They help your skin retain water, making fine lines and wrinkles less visible.
Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid for Glowing Skin
Enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner knowing that it is good for your skin and your overall health!
Be careful not to indulge in items that aren’t that great. The following are high in sugar, sodium and dairy products, which can increase the risk of inflammation, swollen skin, breakouts and an overall dull appearance.
- Filling: If it’s one of your favorites, feel free to enjoy it. Make your portion small as it is often super high in sodium.
- Chips and other salty snacks: These are often served before dinner. Try to avoid them as they are also high in sodium and can make you look bloated.
- Creamy cheese dips and dishes: Cheese-rich products may be tasty in the moment, but they can lead to an overproduction of skin oil (sebum), which worsens acne. Take it easy with the serving.
- Corn bread: It is super tasty, mostly because it contains a lot of sugar. Take just a small piece.
- Baked Goods: Instead of cookies and cakes, go for a slice of pumpkin pie. It is healthier than these other products with a high sugar content and a high glycemic index.
What skin-friendly foods do you enjoy this Thanksgiving?
Featured image courtesy of Karolina Grabowska via Pexels.
