Beautiful skin isn’t just about the serums, moisturisers and hydrating mists you apply externally; it starts on your plate.
Incorporating these hydrating foods into your daily diet can help keep your skin soft, supple, and glowing from within.
Here are the best foods for exactly that, according to Wellness Warehouse:
Cucumber: Made up of about 96% water, cucumbers are one of the most hydrating foods you can eat. They’re also rich in silica, a compound that helps strengthen connective tissues and keeps skin firm. The anti-inflammatory properties of cucumbers can help soothe irritated skin, reduce puffiness, and provide an instant cooling effect. For an extra boost, try adding cucumber slices to your water or blending them into a refreshing smoothie.
Watermelon: It’s not only a delicious summer fruit, but also a hydration powerhouse, consisting of over 90% water. Packed with antioxidants like lycopene and vitamins A and C, watermelon helps combat free radicals, supports collagen production, and keeps your skin looking youthful. Its high water content also ensures that your skin stays plump and dewy.
Avocados: Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, avocados help lock in moisture and maintain skin elasticity. They’re also packed with vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress and premature ageing. Adding avocados to your meals – whether in salads, smoothies, or as a spread – can give your skin a natural, radiant glow.
Coconut water: A fantastic natural hydrator, loaded with electrolytes like potassium and magnesium that help maintain fluid balance in the body. Its high hydration levels support skin elasticity, reduce dryness, and prevent fine lines from forming. Swap your sugary beverages for coconut water to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Tomatoes: We love their high levels of water and lycopene, a carotenoid that helps protect the skin from UV damage and sunburn. Lycopene also improves skin texture, reduces inflammation, and enhances overall skin hydration. Eating raw tomatoes in salads or blending them into fresh juices can help keep your skin smooth and hydrated.
Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are excellent sources of water, fibre, and essential vitamins such as A, C, and K. These nutrients work together to promote skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and enhance collagen production. Adding leafy greens to your diet in the form of smoothies, soups, or salads can help your skin stay supple and nourished.
Oranges: Along with other citrus fruits, oranges are high in water content and vitamin C, a key nutrient for collagen production. Collagen keeps the skin firm, smooth, and youthful. The natural hydration from citrus fruits also helps flush out toxins, giving your skin a clearer, more even tone.
Chia seeds: These little seeds absorb water and form a gel-like consistency, helping to maintain hydration levels in the body. They are also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. Soaking chia seeds in water or adding them to your smoothie or yogurt can provide an extra dose of skin-loving hydration.
Celery: This underrated hydrating food contains about 95% water. It’s also rich in minerals like potassium and magnesium, which help balance hydration levels in the body. Eating celery regularly can help flush out toxins and keep your skin clear and radiant.
Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are water-rich and packed with antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage. These vibrant fruits also contain vitamin C, which supports hydration and collagen production. Adding a handful of berries to your breakfast or snack time can help maintain your skin’s glow.
