In honor of National Healthy Skin Month, as designated by the American Academy of Dermatology, we’re serving up seasonal food favorites that will do more than just leave your belly feeling happy. They’ll actually leave lasting effects on your skin too. Coupled with eight glasses of water a day, here are some of our top crops to nourish your skin from the inside out. Indulge away!
Apples
While they may be known as fall’s favorite fruit, apples are a staple in our homes year-round – and it’s not just because they keep the doctor away. Vitamin C boosts collagen production and helps with skin’s elasticity. Apples are also a great source of copper, which produces melanin, a natural protectant from sun exposure.
Cut up some applies and pair with cinnamon and almond butter for a healthy snack throughout the day. Need a mouth-watering appetizer for your next dinner party? Try this caramel apple baked brie. It only calls for four ingredients, 10 minutes to prepare and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Butternut Squash
Butternut squash helps fight wrinkles with its abundance of antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta carotene for anti-aging effects. This healthy winter squash is also packed with vitamin A, which goes hand in hand with healthy skin.
If you’re looking for a comforting meal to combat the cooler weather, one of our favorites is oven roasted butternut squash soup. Pair with a salad or sandwich for a quick and tasty combo.
Cranberries
It’s no wonder that cranberries are considered a super food – they are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients, a natural chemical known to protect your cells from free radicals. These juicy fruits are jam-packed with vitamin C, which helps reduce the appearance of scars and dark spots.
Not sure what to make with fresh cranberries? We highly recommend this cranberry pecan wild rice salad – it’s fitting for the season and an easy meal prep for the week.
Pumpkin
We’re all a little pumpkin-crazed around this time of year, but did you know this tasty fruit is loaded with vitamins and minerals that are good for your overall health and have many beauty benefits for your skin? Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Both of these antioxidants help minimize signs of aging and brighten your skin for a more youthful complexion.
Don’t throw out the seeds from your pumpkin carvings because the seeds are rich in zinc, which controls hormone and oil production. This is a great remedy if you’re acne prone. Try one of these roasted pumpkin seeds recipes for a healthy snack that you and your kids will love.
What seasonal favorites are you picking up at your nearest farmer’s market?
