Can foods give you younger skin? Yes, absolutely! However, some diets can also make you look OLDER. If you want a healthy glow and nourished plump skin, you need to eat nutrient rich food and exercise. Healthy foods are the key, so grab your grocery list and jot down these foods for younger skin.

Atkins
Typically known as a low carb, high fat diet.

The Scoop: Carbohydrates help provide our bodies with glucose which is necessary for glycogen production. Without enough glycogen in our bodies, we can become dehydrated which worsens fine lines and irritates our overall skin condition. Glycogen is also a vital nutrient for keeping our muscles and tissues healthy, without it our skin can become saggy and sullen. Low carb diets are also a common source of breakouts and weakened immunity.

Solution: Never completely eliminate anything from your diet, just pick a healthier option. Instead of eating processed carbohydrates that are high on the glycemic index (“white” carbs), switch to healthier whole grain options. Also, monitor your portions….that bagel could actually be two servings.

Vegan
Diet without any animal byproducts, mostly fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, nuts, etc

The Scoop: Many people enjoy this diet simply because they feel “lighter” since there’s no heavy foods to digest and it seems “healthy.” However, the diet isn’t healthy. It lacks the calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and various other vitamins and minerals our bodies require to function properly. Supplementation can help offset some of these effects, but they’re not the same as consuming a well-balanced diet. The lack of protein in the diet will also leave your skin sagging, sallow, and dull. Meat-based proteins are more beneficial for fueling your body’s cellular production needs.

Solution: Pay careful attention to properly supplementing your diet and consider adding small quantities of meat-based proteins to your diet.

Zone
Balanced diet consisting of 30% protein, 30% fat, and 40% carbohydrates

The Scoop: This diet was created with the thinking that our metabolism needs to be “retooled” to optimize its function. According to Dr. Sears the optimum formula for achieving a healthy metabolism is 30% protein, 30% fat, and 40% carbohydrates. He argues that we don’t need to cut back on calories, just re-adjust where we are spending those calories. This particular diet is praised for its moderate approach to healthy eating and doesn’t seem to pose any ill effects to our skin and complexion. If anything, your skin might improve since there is more awareness placed on balanced eating.

Solution: None needed, great program for encouraging healthy eating that benefits our complexions.

Mediterranean
Focus is on healthy fats and proteins found in fish, grains, vegetables, and nuts found in the eating habits of people in Italy, Greece, and France.

The Scoop: The diet is praised for its emphasis on omega-3 rich foods, portion control, and the adoption of healthy fats into daily eating habits. The diet is not overly restrictive and even allows for a glass of wine here and there. The diet can do wonders for your skin as well. Healthy oils such as olive oil are good for hydrating you on both the inside and out. Your skin will be hydrated and plump which can help minimize and conceal fine lines.

Solution: The diet is healthy and good for your skin. The only potential downside is consuming too much of the good stuff such as oils, cheese, and wine can cause weight gain. Keep a close eye on portions and use those ingredients in moderation.

If you’re looking to shave off a couple years from your appearance, I would suggest taking notes from The Zone and Mediterranean diets. They are solid “eating guidelines” that will help you achieve a well-balanced diet, portion control, and a strong foundation for a healthy lifestyle.e in quick fixes. If you want to look healthy, have a great body, and the endurance to keep up with the busy life of a Mom, you need to eat nutrient rich food and exercise. Period. The BIG secret is simply burning more calories than you take in.