For decades we’ve heard the term, what you eat is what you think, however, did you know what you eat is also how you look?
While research has found that eating carbs makes you look unattractive, a new study suggests that foods rich in carotenoids make one look attractive giving them a hydrating look.
Nutritionist Mackenzie Burgess said in an interview, “Some studies show carotenoids may help your skin by improving elasticity, hydration, skin texture, wrinkles, and age spots.”
Carotenoids are pigments that give colour to many fruits and vegetables such as kale and Broccoli.
According to the University of Illinois, some foods that are rich in carotenoids include sweet potatoes, carrots, butternut squash, dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, orange peppers, corn, asparagus, tomatoes and tomato products, watermelons, grapefruit, and guavas.
Both egg yolks and pistachios are also good sources.
In addition, to their cosmetic benefits, carotenoids have also been found to improve body odour, making your sweat smell pleasant.
According to Burgess, “Certain antioxidants and nutrients may help neutralise the body’s odour-causing compound, leading to a more pleasant smelling sweat.”
Protein collagen is another beautifying substance found in abundance in meat and healthy fats. It helps improve skin elasticity and is also proven good for hair, nails, muscles, and skin.
It can be found in bone broth, in the skin of fresh and saltwater fish, as well as in Pot roast, among others.
Burgess has also suggested increasing the intake of foods rich in Omega-3 substances as it makes your skin look hydrating and has anti-inflammatory effects.
