Diet
Healthy Skin Diet: The Truth About Antioxidants
Learn everything you need to know about these powerful ingredients -- once and for all
The truth about phytonutrients
Phytonutrients (like lycopene and lutein) are antioxidants that come from a plant substance. They have been shown to be powerful weapons in the fight against degenerative diseases.And while Canfield points out that they don't have a direct affect on skin or hair, when you consume phytonutrients, it will improve the overall health of your body. And "whenever you're well nourished, your antioxidant intake is what it should be, and your immune system is at its best, then your skin is at its healthiest (assuming your getting adequate water)." Basically, "when your body is healthy, your skin is going to reflect that -- and so is your hair."
Where they're found: Lutein is found in veggies that have a yellow-orange pigment -- think butternut squash, and deep green vegetables like spinach and kale, says Canfield. Lycopene is found in red fruits and veggies -- and especially in tomatoes and tomato products. Other fruits like red watermelon, papaya, guava and pink grapefruit also contain the nutrient.
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