It’s no secret that most of us have had an occasional breakout from not washing our face every night, or ignoring changing our pillow cases often enough; but what about the rest of us who have a black belt in fighting those germs?
We wash our face every morning and every night. We make sure to keep dirty fingers off our faces or anywhere near it at all times, and never, ever clog up pores with caked on foundation.
I am one of these few, and I myself was about to give up! I stayed cleaner than all of my friends who had flawless skin, so I constantly asked myself what I was doing wrong, until I discovered the secret.
Food!
Raw, organic, healthy, anti-inflammatory foods. What you put into your body will show on the outside – especially when it comes to our skin.
Bacteria is only one of the few possible reasons we deal with acne. Inflammation is another common reason; it’s when a part of the body becomes swollen, red, and irritated. We all know when our bodies are inflamed, but the solution isn’t always on the surface.
Dermatologists and doctors prescribe prescriptions and antibiotics that, at times, can cause more harm to your body – especially in the long run. Natural and organic is always the best way to go! Here’s how to achieve flawless skin:
#1 Turmeric
This powerful Asian spice contains a mega strong anti-inflammatory compound, Curcumin, which is often found in the spice curry. It is said to have the same effect as over-the- counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (which also helps calm bumps) only without their side effects of course. Go organic! Team Turmeric.
#2 Ginger
We’re not talking about redheads. This root helps to reduce inflammation and control blood sugar rapidly.
Ginger tea is a great way to get your serving in! I like to blend a chunk of ginger in still water and enjoy a fresh ginger beverage to sip on throughout the day.
#3 Cruciferous Vegetables
What the heck does cruciferous mean? It’s any veggie that is a part of the cabbage family, such as: Broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale and cauliflower.
These are all loaded with antioxidants. Eat more veggies in their organic state as these vegetables always have stronger health benefits when eaten raw!
#4 Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The Mediterranean culture’s secret to longevity, this oil provides a healthy dose of fats that fight inflammation and can also help lower the risk of arthritis.
Drizzle a bit over salads, or add it to your cooking instead of butter.
#5 Blueberries
These little guys are made to counteract inflammation, but they do not only do that; blueberries are strong antioxidants that can protect the brain from aging!
This means that, in the long run, they will prevent disease and prevent those laugh lines we all try to avoid.
Aim for organic berries to keep away from pesticides that may be hard to wash off these tiny fruits.
#6 Salmon
O’Hail the king of the fatty fish (the good kinds of fat of course). This anti-inflammatory fish contains omega-3s that tame those inflamed imperfections.
Try to combine oily fish such as salmon into your diet at least twice a week.
Not a fan of consuming protein of the sea? Not to worry, you can find Omega-3 tablets at almost any local drug store or market.
#7 Kelp
This unique food is another ocean wonder. High in fiber, this brown algae extract works to drown inflammation, and also works as an anti-tumor cancer fighting agent!
#8 Green Tea
Japan uses green tea for its anti-inflammatory magic. Green tea has so many benefits; soothing your skin is just one. Take green tea supplements along with your tea for a true anti-inflammatory boost!
#9 Garlic
Though not as well-known as green tea, garlic can help to reduce inflammation as well. It’s best in its raw state rather than being cooked, which I know may be hard to swallow!
You can pickle garlic by soaking it in vinegar, it’s delicious and doesn’t leave you with garlic breath believe it or not!
#10 Pineapple
Before you plop a juicy slice of pineapple in your mouth, you must know that only the hard center of the pineapple has anti-inflammation properties! This is quite hard to eat unless it is ground up in the food processor or blender. Add it to your smoothies!
Dun, Dun, Dun, The Bad List…
Stay away from inflammatory food such as:
- Alcohol
- Sugar
- Processed Foods
- Trans Fat (The Bad Fats)
- Red Meats
- Dairy
These 10 Anti-Inflammatory foods have saved my life and boosted my confidence, not to mention I have more energy. I try to eat at least one of them every day.
Studies have shown that your skin will improve by 51% just by eating one of these super foods on the daily alone! Stop the pain and better your skin the natural way. Here’s to a flawless spot-free face!