Incorporating certain foods into your lifestyle has health benefits. They can also enhance your skin care regimen. Have you ever wondered why the beauty products you use don't work? You may need to refocus on the foods you eat to keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.
Cranberries
(Vaccinium Macrocarpon-Cranberry)
Cranberries are filled with antioxidants, ideal for protecting cells from damage and treating infections and bacteria. Cranberry and raspberry enzymes have natural fruit acids that help destroy unfriendly bacteria on the skin. Look for a facial cleanser that contains cranberry enzymes to unblock and minimize pores. Similarly, cranberries when consumed can increase good cholesterol levels and destroy bacteria that accumulate in the urinary tract. Raspberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which helps keep your skin glowing and minimizes dark spots and discoloration caused by aging and sun damage.
Try incorporating these powerful berries into a healthy smoothie. Blend unsweetened natural cranberry juice, fresh raspberries, fresh blueberries, fat-free vanilla Greek yogurt, ice and an extra shot of cranberry supplements for a real antioxidant shock! To refine and brighten your skin, try Arcona's Cranberry Gommage, which tones and unclogs pores in the morning. Salicylic acid with cranberry and raspberry enzymes help exfoliate the skin and stimulate circulation. It's best to exfoliate or scrub your skin twice a week to remove dead skin cells, then apply a light lotion to provide protection from daily environmental aggressors. Try Primavera's Protective Lotion that contains organic cranberry extract and cassis seed oil to protect against free radical damage.
Pomegranate
(Punica Granatum-Pomegranate)
Pomegranate extract and seed oil is extremely rich in antioxidants and protects against free radicals. This is especially important for mature, dry skin to revitalize and promote graceful aging. Pomegranate tends to stimulate collagen production, which decreases with age. Collagen restores elasticity, increases tone and color while reducing fine lines.
Pomegranate juice has increased levels of antioxidants and contains vitamin C, B5, K and potassium. If you choose to drink pomegranate juice, make sure you buy pure juice without added sugars or blends of other juices. Adding sugar to juices increases their calorie content and decreases their health benefits. Just ½ cup of pomegranate seeds contains 72 calories, what a treat! It is recommended to consume 8 ounces of unsweetened pomegranate juice daily to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as "bad" cholesterol. This anti-inflammatory super fruit juice can be added to any healthy smoothie as a liquid binder. After a cardio workout, try replenishing your juice supply with pomegranates, fresh berries, bananas, almonds, protein powder and ice. Not into shakes? Add fresh pomegranate seeds to a salad of iron-rich baby spinach, fresh dates, avocado chunks, an orange and make yourself a pomegranate vinaigrette with olive oil, pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar and fresh pepper.
While feeding your body plenty of nutrients, you need to nourish your skin from the outside in. Try incorporating seed oils into your skincare regiment, as they contain the essence of plant life and are extremely concentrated. Make sure the seed oils you choose are cold-pressed to preserve the nutrients and polyunsaturated fatty acids that give your skin elasticity and radiance. It is a myth that people with oily skin should avoid using oil products for fear of breakouts. The right seed oil can actually support the skin's ability to regulate oil production and balance skin conditions. We think that hyperpigmentation, blemishes and blackheads only occur during adolescence. Our bodies change throughout our lives and we need to continue to treat them with the right products. Try Revitalizing Rose Pomegranate Primavera Intensive Seed Oil Capsules to help promote cell turnover, even out redness and reduce damaged capillaries. After cleansing at night, open the capsule and gently massage into your face for an instant natural glow in the morning.
Staying healthy and youthful is a daily task. Be mindful of the foods you eat and the products you use. Fresh, organic, locally grown fruits and vegetables will provide a wealth of nutrients. When choosing skin and body care products, make sure they contain high quality natural and organic ingredients. Monthly professional facial treatments combined with home care will help you achieve optimal health inside and out. You only have one face and one body. It's never too late to start taking care of both!
