Substitute your beauty purchases for the basics

By: Sara Jane

1. Kiwi

Studies have shown that people who eat foods high in Vitamin C are less likely to get wrinkles, due to the nutrient that encourages production of collagen, which is a protein that aids in firming the skin. Get your daily dose of Vitamin C with a cup of kiwi slices. You’ll be surprised – a cup of kiwi contains more Vitamin C than oranges.

2. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are jam-packed with lycopene, an antioxidant, which protects the skin from pollution and the harsh sun rays. So try to include tomatoes in your meals or drink a cup of fresh tomato juice daily, and you’ll find yourself with way less blotchy skin.

3. Oysters

A delicacy often eaten raw, oysters are rich in zinc, which helps in brightening one’s complexion and encouraging skin cell renewal. Also contain selenium, oysters aid in maintaining the elasticity of the skin as well as shield it against the damaging effects of the sun.

4. Berries

Berries – be it strawberries, blueberries or cranberries – are packed with antioxidants that neutralise free radicals which are atoms that cause aging. Mix a cup of berries with yogurt or your toast during breakfast every morning – not only do they taste good, they do good as well.

5. Buckwheat

Do you like soba noodles? Great, have more of these Japanese cold noodles because it contains buckwheat, which has nutrients that keep the skin supple and young, while maintaining its elasticity. Bonus factor, it’s easy on the waistline too!

6. Salmon

Eat whichever way you prefer – raw, grilled or steamed – salmon, the humble fish, fights dry skin as it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which moisturises skin and prevents skin cancer. Not only that, the fatty acids in salmon contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) as well, which preserves collagen, thereby keeping your skin young and supple.

7. Almonds

Raw almonds are packed with Vitamin E, a powerful anti-aging nutrient that also acts as a natural sunblock and a great antioxidant. Carry a packet of almonds around with you everyday, as this also helps to keep the binging of unhealthy foods away.

8. Sweet potatoes

Not only are sweet potatoes delicious, but they also fight aging by increasing the production of glycosaminoglycans and collagen which aid in keeping your skin moisturised and healthy. Snack on some sweet potatoes if you’re intending to skip a heavy lunch, for they are a rich source of carbohydrates as well.

9. Avocado

Soft and buttery, these fruits are rich in oleic acid which is a great source of antioxidants, as it will fight annoying wrinkles on your countenance. Drink a glass of avocado milkshake with a swirl of dark chocolate or honey, it’ll be a great breakfast, as well as a healthy one.

10. Spices

Ginger, cinnamon, turmeric and cayenne pepper – these spices are powerful antioxidants that fight wrinkling. The next time you make a cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate, add a teaspoon of cinnamon powder and you’ll find yourself looking younger and feeling refreshed.