In your face!

November is National Healthy Skin Month.   Why not “feed your face” something good to look younger?  Below are some tips to keep your face (and body) young and healthy.

1. Peel an orange. Oranges and grapefruit are in season now, so enjoy them while they last.  A recent study shows that individuals who eat a diet rich in vitamin C have less wrinkles than those who don’t.  Tomatoes, bell peppers and broccoli are also great sources.
2. Go Mediterranean. Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean diets can be used topically to provide smoother skin.  When eaten, olive oil is rich in anti-oxidants that help reduce inflammation and stamp out free radicals, which can cause wrinkles.
3. Enjoy a spot of green tea. Green tea is loaded with anti-inflammatory chemicals that may reduce your risk of skin cancer.  Squeeze some fresh lemon in your tea to boost the vitamin C content.
4. Eat edamame. Green soybeans make a great snack and happen to contain a special fat (phosphatidylserine) that helps create collagen.  Enjoy as a snack or steam for a side dish.
5. Get fishy. Fatty fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, a fat that helps fight inflammation and improve skin tone.  Enjoy tuna, mackerel and salmon twice per week or more.
6. Bottoms up! Adequate water helps hydrate your skin and prevent eczema.  Aim for 6-8 (8 oz) of water daily.
7. Tame your sweet tooth. Excess sugar in your diet may inhibit the effectiveness of collagen, which can increase the risk of wrinkles.  Choose fresh or dried fruit when your sweet tooth kicks in and limit intake of junk like cake, cookies, pastries and other high sugar treats.
8. Curb your cocktails. Alcohol is not only dehydrating, it can wreck your sleep, leaving you with dry skin and dark circles under your eyes.  Be moderate in your cocktail consumption this season.
9. Turn away from trans. Trans fat (from processed foods) is linked with heart disease and some cancers, and can also age your skin.  Limit fast food and avoid products containing hydrogenated oils.
10. Decaf a bit. Excessive coffee, tea or soda consumption can cause dehydration, which results in dry, sallow skin.  Enjoy a cup in the morning, but switch to decaf (or water) for the rest of the day.