An unhealthy diet could be the culprit behind signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles on the face.
The skin relies on two proteins, namely Collagen, and Elastin, to maintain its firmness and elasticity.
As people grow older, the body produces less collagen and elastin, causing the signs of skin aging.
The body’s natural antioxidant-fighting capabilities may be overpowered by free radical molecules which are produced naturally as people age. These free radicals contain oxygen, and the former damage collagen and elastin. This damage also changes the function and structure of the skin cells.
The skin is also damaged by factors like exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, an unhealthy diet, and smoking. These three factors create more free radical molecules.
To address this concern, experts are working on natural solutions.
According to research, following a healthy diet that utilizes certain nutrients can help manage the signs of aging that eliminate intake of all artificial sweeteners, colors or beverages.
Collagen
Eat more collagen-rich foods for smoother skin. Collagen is found in meat and poultry. When people consume protein, it is broken down to amino acids which the body absorbs to meet all its protein needs. They are turned into hormones, enzymes, and the collagen in the bones, tendons, and skin.
Collagen shows promise as an additional anti-aging and collagen-booster and helps trigger cells that generate more collagen and elastin in the skin.
These foods can help boost and repair collagen:
Beans
Berries
Bone Broth
Garlic
Lean poultry
Vegetables
Linoleic acid
According to research, the most abundant fatty acid in the skin, linoleic acid, is linked to a lower chance of having thinning skin. The thinning of the skin can magnify the appearance of wrinkles on the face. In a study involving about 4,000 women, older participants who had lower dietary intakes of both linoleic acid and vitamin C also had drier skin.
Foods that contain linoleic acid include:
Almonds and walnuts
Canola oil
Edamame
Soybean oil
Vitamin C
Consume more vitamin C. Vitamin C is required so enzymes can produce collagen. Foods rich in vitamin C can help protect the skin from ultraviolet aging when exposed to sunlight, reduce wrinkles, and regenerate skin cells.
Based on research, diets that include lots of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C are linked to healthier skin among women.
These foods are rich in vitamin C:
Broccoli
Citrus fruits, Kiwi, Papaya
Red and green peppers
Tomatoes
Avoid Artificial sweeteners
A high-sugar diet can damage collagen and elastin fibers, causing them to lose their elasticity, leading to more wrinkles and sagging skin. Following a diet with little to no added sugars and refined carbohydrates can make the skin look smoother.