Antioxidants are essential for glowing skin

Antioxidants are essential for glowing skin. No conclusive evidence that antioxidants prevent skin aging. Antioxidant-rich foods can also help us achieve a healthier, more radiant complexion. Dr. Susan M. Kleiner recommends following the Food Guide Pyramid of the United States Department of Agriculture. RDA for vitamin E is 8 mg for women and 10 mg for men (1 tablespoon canola oil = 9 mg). Nuts, seeds, and their oils, fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, and trout, and wheat germ are all good sources.

Although there is no conclusive evidence that antioxidants prevent skin aging, experts agree that they have the ability to "capture" free radicals and may protect us from certain diseases. Antioxidant-rich foods can also help us achieve a healthier, more radiant complexion.

Eating antioxidant-rich foods is best, according to Seattle-based nutritionist Susan M. Kleiner, R.D., Ph.D. "There is no substitute for obtaining nutrients from food. They are absorbed and assimilate far better in the body than in supplement form."

Kleiner recommends following the Food Guide Pyramid of the United States Department of Agriculture and eating three to five servings of vegetables and two to four servings of fruit per day. For vitamin C, eat at least one citrus fruit, such as an orange, tangerine, or grapefruit. Eat at least two orange-yellow or leafy green vegetables per day to boost your beta-carotene intake.

Eat Well to Have Younger Looking Skin

Healthy eating equals younger-looking skin. A cup of orange juice and one raw carrot provide twice the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C and beta-carotene. The RDA for vitamin E is more difficult to meet, particularly for those on a low-fat diet.

"Don't be afraid to include a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in your diet, or to eat some nuts or seeds," Dr. Kleiner advises.

The following guidelines can be used to calculate RDAs for three of the most common antioxidant nutrients, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene; good sources and methods for maximizing benefits are included.

RDA for vitamin C is at least 60 mg. (One-half cup orange juice = 70 mg.) Citrus fruits and juices, as well as tomatoes, are high in vitamin C. Consume whole fruit to get more fiber. Juice in glass containers and heat-pasteurized juice should be avoided. Some vitamin C is destroyed by light and heat.

RDA for vitamin E is 8 mg for women and 10 mg for men (1 tablespoon canola oil = 9 mg). Nuts, seeds, and their oils, fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, and trout, and wheat germ are all good sources. When cooking, substitute canola, olive, or another vegetable oil for butter or margarine.

There is no established RDA for beta-carotene. Dr. Kleiner, on the other hand, recommends 5-6 mg. (One carrot equals 12 mg.) Orange and yellow vegetables, as well as leafy green vegetables like broccoli, are excellent sources. Instead of potato chips or popcorn for an evening snack while watching TV, choose prepackaged, washed, and peeled baby carrots.

If you believe you are unable to meet the RDAs through diet alone, take an all-in-one antioxidant vitamin supplement daily and continue to focus on rich food sources.

Because many over-the-counter cosmetics containing antioxidants are insufficient to be completely effective on their own, it is best to 'feed' them to your skin in conjunction with a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet for younger looking skin.

We at Savvy Spa Luxuries are concerned about your health and well-being. You can enjoy a more fit body, improved quality of life, increased stamina, and a glowing complexion with proper skin care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and plenty of water!