A monthly facial may have your skin glowing and your mind in a state of calm but to truly care for our skin means taking a closer look at our diet. When the effects of the luxury salon scrubs and lotions have faded, it’s what we choose to consume that really makes a difference deep below the surface.

We already know the natural ingredients in super foods help build brainpower, lower cholesterol, improve sleep, and much more. But did you know these nutritional superstars also help speed up the skin’s exfoliation process, which leads to better cell production, as well as protect skin from UV damage that causes brown spots and wrinkles? We take a look at foods that are proven to bring the bounce back to your skin.

Green tea

Not only does this popular green stuff boost metabolism and aid weight loss, it also has powerful antioxidants that fight premature ageing. Antioxidants nullify damage caused by the sun to such a great extent that many experts believe it can actually reverse adverse effects. Green tea is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties, which help keep spots and breakouts in check and because it naturally flushes toxins, it is also improving the texture of your complexion at the same time.

Get up and go with green tea

Juices, tea bags and supplements

Nuts

Fibre, antioxidants, healthy fat, calcium, vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, C, E, zinc and copper - the many extraordinary benefits of eating nuts are well documented. But what is less known is that nuts naturally boost collagen levels, which means a handful of crunch can keep your skin healthy and youthful. While it may be a nutrient-rich food ideal for glowing skin, be careful not to overdo it as nuts are also high in fat.

Nuts can boost collagen levels
Nuts can boost collagen levels

Oysters

Oysters are loaded with zinc and vitamin C, which help improve elasticity in the skin, giving a more youthful appearance. Eating just three oysters will give you a whole day's worth of zinc, along with a giant supply of protein and iron. The zinc is a major player in skin repair because it helps create collagen, which provides structural support to your body's largest organ.

Zinc and vitamin C found in oysters are good for the skin
Zinc and vitamin C found in oysters are good for the skin

Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains anti-ageing antioxidants called flavonoids, which fight free radicals to protect your skin from UV damage and help prevent the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and skin discolouration. Choose dark chocolate because the higher the cocoa content the higher the health benefits. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition reported improved skin texture and hydration, less sensitivity to the sun, and 25 per cent less skin redness in response to UV light exposure in those who ate dark chocolate daily.

Mornings will never be the same after you try a delicious plant-based cacao banana smoothie bowl. Packed full of nutrients and skin-improving goodness, the cacao pairs perfectly with frozen bananas, blended until creamy. Cacao nibs are less processed than chocolate, have no sugar added and bring tons of nutrients. They are rich in magnesium and also contain iron, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, copper and other plant compounds that provide antioxidant protection.

Mornings will never be the same after you try a delicious plant-based cacao banana smoothie bowl. Packed full of nutrients and skin-improving goodness, the cacao pairs perfectly with frozen bananas, blended until creamy. Cacao nibs are less processed than chocolate, have no sugar added and bring tons of nutrients. They are rich in magnesium and also contain iron, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, copper and other plant compounds that provide antioxidant protection.

Enjoy dark chocolate and improve your skin

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Sweet potatoes

Whether you prefer these nutritious spuds steamed, baked, sautéed, or chopped into fries and roasted, you should be eating this superfood more often as they can help immunity and promote glowing skin. Sweet potatoes maintain bright, healthy eyes and protect skin from UV exposure thanks to their high concentration of beta-carotene. The antioxidant makes skin more supple and flexible and reduces sun-related wrinkles. The tasty root veggies are also packed full of vitamins A, C, and E, which all help improve the look of skin and hair.

Sweet potatoes are packed with skin-aiding beta-carotene
Sweet potatoes are packed with skin-aiding beta-carotene
Sweet potatoes are packed with skin-aiding beta-carotene
Sweet potatoes are packed with skin-aiding beta-carotene
Sweet potatoes are packed with skin-aiding beta-carotene
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Medjool dates

Dates are high in fibre, natural sugars and are readily available across the Middle East, making them the perfect sweet treat. But did you know the power of the humble date goes much further than simply a welcome snack at family gatherings? These little sticky powerhouses aid cleansing as they are rich in copper, an important mineral that helps the body absorb iron and form collagen and red blood cells. Plus, they make for a great sugar alternative in baking and cooking, which means using them daily is never a challenge.

Juicy dates for snacks and cooking

Varieties from around the world