Every day we are bombarded with ads that promise to remove the wrinkles that typically accompany aging. These ads show the before and after pictures of folks who improved their skin’s appearance by using the vendor’s anti-aging moisturizer product. Unfortunately the same folks who pay top dollar for the moisturizing products typically sabotage their plan for younger looking skin by consuming foods that contribute heavily to causing the wrinkling of their skin. For example consuming products with refined sugar very often causes a sudden jump in blood sugar levels. These sudden increases in blood sugar levels induce inflammation and aging of skin. Simple carbohydrates convert easily to sugar and contribute their share of skin aging which includes adding deeper wrinkles and sagging skin to the detriment of senior health. Limiting consumption of simple carbohydrates and refined sugar must be the first step in promoting younger looking skin.

On the positive side folks can select from over seven different groups of tasty foods that promote healthy, younger looking skin by providing antioxidants. At the head of the list is the berry family whose members are loaded with antioxidants. They include blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, pomegranate, cherries, and acai berries. Next is the yellow and orange root vegetable family that includes sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, and pumpkins. Joining the healthy skin team are the red vegetables which include tomatoes, red and pink grapefruit, and watermelon that supply lycopene which provides the antioxidants to fight the free radicals. These vegetables inhibit sun-induced skin aging. The green vegetables spinach and kale provide antioxidants and enhance skin hydration. Onions, garlic, and scallions are good for your skin and they provide an immune system boost. The list would not be complete without including salmon that provides excellent protein and omega-3 oils. The texture of your skin will show the positive result of consuming salmon on a regular basis. Rounding out the healthy skin team remember to drink lots of green tea and water, but limit drinks with caffeine, because it tends to dehydrate skin. The water hydrates your skin and the green tea provides special antioxidants.