Diet

Korean Diet Secrets for Youthful, Wrinkle-free Skin

It's not just genetics; these foods also have a hand in the Korean women's flawless complexions

by Emily Woodruff | COMMENT

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The Pungent, Probiotic Powerhouse What it is: Kimchi is a fermented Korean dish made of cabbage and seasoned with garlic, sugar, hot pepper and salt. Oyster or anchovy is usually added to deepen the flavor. Koreans pack it in large clay pots and leave it outside to ferment, sometimes for several months. The resulting dish is a flavorful, spicy staple that is a can't-live-without addition to every meal, according to Korean-born owner of Glowrecipe.com Sarah Lee.

Skin perks: This skunky superfood contains lactobacillus, the same good-for-you bacteria found in yogurt, which promotes a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. Many doctors link the health of your gut to the health of your skin. Since inflammation in the gut is tied to skin issues like acne, kimchi may be the zit-zapper you've been craving.

Besides reducing acne, kimchi may prevent wrinkles by adding moisture to your skin. A study published in January 2015 found that subjects who ate the bacteria found in kimchi on a daily basis experienced improved skin barrier function and an increase in hyaluronic acid — a moisturizing ingredient you pay big bucks for in skincare products — after just four weeks.

How to eat it: Many health food stores carry jars for around seven dollars. Koreans eat it as a side dish or over rice for a simple meal.

Image courtesy Kimchi Tiger Blog

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