Memory Matters

Archive for January, 2009

The skin is the largest organ on the human body contributing significantly to the way we look. This is one of the main reasons skin care products constitute the largest share of revenue (8 billion) in beauty products (32 billion). In this article we identify the top five foods that help in making our skin glow, look vibrant, healthy and younger looking. Milk Products: Vitamin A in yogurt and other dairy products keeps skin fresh. In ancient times people used to have milk baths due to the health benefits of milk for the skin. The lactic acid in milk acts as a natural cleanser for your skin while the beta hydroxyl acid in milk acts as an skin exfoliant removing old skin cells to give way for new skin cells.

Water: Pure Water rejuvenates and hydrates skin cells. Water in coffee or sugar drinks does not count. It carries nutrients to every skin cell and flushes out bad toxins. It improves circulation and blood flow which is critical for radiant skin. Salmon: The omega-3 oils in salmon protect the skin by restricting the entry of toxins while letting in nutrients. It keeps skin supple and young. Green Tea: Green tea reduces skin cancer due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It can be applied on the skin or taken orally.

The best way to relish them and preserve all the health benefits is to eat them raw, unsalted, with the skins. There are many different and easy ways to enjoy these delicious edibles: Some studies reported in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry show that eating almonds with the skins increases levels of flavonoids and vitamin E in the body.

Flavonoids are antioxidants with health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and antitumor effect. Almonds contain high levels of powerful antioxidants, which protect your body at different levels. They deactivate free radicals – cell-destroying compounds that can cause health problems, such as heart disease, cancer, strokes, and skin damage. Researchers found that the principal flavonoids in almonds – catechin, epicatechin and Kaempferol – provide the highest degree of protection against oxidant-induced cell dealth than any other flavonoids. Catechins are also found in green tea.

Most of the fat in almonds is monounsaturated, also known as “good” fat. In winter season, they provide you with the essential oils that are good for your skin. Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) are essential for skin membrane function, cell division, brain development, immune function, and anti-inflammatory responses. Dry skin, cracked nails, constipation, dry hair, sore joints: all these conditions can have benefits from essential fatty acids.