Nutrition tips to improve your appearance

Working to develop a healthy glow? Beauty comes from the inside out, and there are plenty of ways that you can change what you put into your body to help improve your appearance. 

First, drink up. It’s key to take in plenty of water each day to help your skin stay soft and healthy. Aim for about half of your body weight in ounces. If you weigh 150 pounds, for example, drink at least 75 oz. of water each day. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, participating in strenuous exercise, or live in a hot climate, be sure to boost your water intake even more. In addition to working wonders for your skin, drinking plenty of water can also help you with sugar and caffeine cravings, both of which can negatively impact your overall look. 

Try adding sweet potatoes to your diet to up your vitamin A levels. Doing so can give your skin a nice glow, and can help fight dry, dull skin. Use sweet potatoes in place of standard potatoes as a side dish or in soups. Not a fan of sweet potatoes? Adding carrots and other orange vegetables can have the same effect. 

Amp up the fats. Healthy fats can help your skin stay plump and soft, and can help to fight off rough and dry skin. Having enough healthy fats in your diet doesn’t just help your skin stay moisturized and healthy–it can also reduce inflammation, helping you to get rid of any puffiness in your body. There are plenty of delicious ways to add healthy fats to your diet. Adding in fatty seafood like salmon (or taking a fish oil supplement), tossing your lunchtime salad with a dash of olive oil, and snacking on walnuts can all help you get the healthy fat you need to look good and feel full. 

Put down the sugar. We know, we know–sugar is delicious, and if you’re used to reaching for something sweet to get you going, it can be tough to break the candy habit. Getting rid of added sugars is one of the best things you can do for your health, both inside and out. When you cut out added sugars, you’ll likely notice that your skin appears more clear and vibrant, and that you have a consistent sense of energy throughout your day. 

Need a moment of zen in your day? Try a cup of green tea. Research shows that drinking green tea can help protect the skin from sun damage. Many people who drink green tea regularly notice a positive difference in their skin, including improvements in texture and elasticity. If you’re drinking green tea late in the day, be sure to choose a decaffinated version.