We often hear that beauty comes from within, and when it comes to your skin health, this couldn't be more true. A diet laden with sugar and unhealthy fats does more than expand our waistlines; it can lead to skin issues like acne and rosacea, reflecting our internal health on our external appearance. 

For heart health month, we explore what foods you can incorporate into your diet that are beneficial to your skin - and your heart!

The Top 12 Foods for Radiant Skin and a Healthy Heart

• Salmon: Before olive oil, J.Lo hailed salmon as the reason for her flawless skin. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon contains healthy fats, which reduce inflammation and can lower the risk of acne and other skin conditions while also supporting heart health by improving cardiovascular functions.
• Avocados: A source of healthy fats, avocados help keep skin moisturized - giving you that desired glow - while their high content of potassium and monounsaturated fats can help lower blood pressure and heart disease risk. If you are struggling with dry skin, consider adding avocados to your diet and Skin Veneer to your skin care routine!
• Walnuts: Among nuts, walnuts are highlighted as the most beneficial to both heart and skin health. Walnuts are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, which is known for lowering the risk of heart disease, while improving skin barrier function, reducing inflammation, and protecting against sun damage (you should still wear an SPF moisturizer.) Additionally, walnuts contain antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which can help protect the skin from free radical damage, potentially reducing the risk of premature aging and improving skin health. 
• Sweet Potatoes: High in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, sweet potatoes help keep skin healthy by acting as a natural sunblock and supporting heart health with their fiber and potassium content.
• Bell Peppers: Rich in vitamin C, necessary for collagen production, bell peppers can help keep your skin firm and strong while also benefiting heart health due to their antioxidants and vitamins. TIP: Supplement your ingestible antioxidants with a direct gulp for your skin from the Antioxidant Cocktail.
• Spinach: This leafy green is loaded with antioxidants, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, protect skin health, and improve heart health thanks to its high levels of vitamins A and C, magnesium, and iron.
• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are full of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. They can help reduce skin aging and support heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Tomatoes: High in lycopene, tomatoes can protect your skin from sun damage and improve heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels and protecting against strokes.
• Dark Chocolate: Cocoa contains antioxidants that can help improve skin texture and protect against sun damage, while also offering cardiovascular benefits by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
• Green Tea: The polyphenols in green tea can help protect your skin from damage and aging, while its heart-healthy benefits include lowering cholesterol and improving blood flow.
• Flaxseeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, flaxseeds can help keep your skin hydrated and smooth while also reducing cholesterol and supporting heart health.
• Oats: Oats are rich in soluble fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health. They also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe skin irritation and promote a healthy complexion.

These foods can be easily incorporated into meals and added to dishes you may already regularly consume. However, the key is to consume them in ways that preserve their benefits and do not add ingredients that would cancel them out.

For example, a cup of high quality green tea each morning can be great for your skin and heart health. A green tea latte with milk and sugar - not so much!

Do you have a unique skin healthy recipe to share? Email it to us at info@dpderm.com or tag us on Instagram.

Learn more about optimal skin health at dpderm.com.