By Elizabeth Kiely
One of the best ways to improve the appearance of your skin is
by incorporating raw food into your diet. Beautiful skin starts
from the inside out. People who switch to eating mostly raw food
often see an improvement in their skin and look younger.
Heating food above 105 degrees Fahrenheit destroys the enzymes
as well as up to 50% of the protein and 70-90% of the vitamins
and minerals. Eating cooked food overtaxes the body’s enzyme
reserves. Eating more raw food decreases the amount of digestive
enzymes your body has to produce. Raw foods are foods in their
natural state with the enzymes left intact. Enzymes are needed
to perform many functions in the body including digestion,
assimilation and elimination of food. A drained enzyme supply
can result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies, premature aging
and low energy. Raw foods high in enzymes include sprouts,
papaya and pineapple.
Free radicals damage your skin and interfere with collagen
production causing premature aging. Antioxidants counteract free
radicals that age the skin. Berries, especially blueberries, are
potent antioxidants that promote collagen which reduces
wrinkles. Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruit
help rid the body of free radicals keeping the skin looking
young. Foods high in the antioxidant beta carotene including
carrots and apricots protect the skin against sun damage.
CoenzymeQ10 is an effective antioxidant involved in the energy
process and present in every cell in the body. CoQ10 levels in
the body diminish with age. CoQ10 destroys free radicals and
slows aging. Spinach, broccoli and peanuts are foods high in
CoQ10.
Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the
strength of other antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E, and
assists the body’s energy production. Alpha-lipoic acid can be
found in spinach, brewer’s yeast, broccoli, tomatoes and peas.
Sulfur is a mineral present in every cell in your body. It is
needed in collagen production and for healthy skin, hair and
nails. Organic sulfur levels in food are lost when processed,
heated or dried. Sulfur is known to help improve skin conditions
such as acne. High sulfur content foods include asparagus,
broccoli, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, red pepper, garlic, onion,
watercress and kale.
Silicon is an essential trace mineral needed for healthy skin,
hair, nails and bones. Silicon levels decrease with age. Fruits
and vegetables are the richest source of silicon including
apples, oranges, cherries, grapes, strawberries, beets,
cucumber, carrots and green leafy vegetables.
Phytochemicals are plant chemicals that help the body defend
against damage and are said to have anti-aging properties.
Phytochemicals can be found in berries, broccoli, cauliflower,
celery, spinach, carrots, cocoa and bell pepper.
Raw nuts and seeds are high in Vitamin E which is beneficial to
the skin. Selenium keeps the skin elastic and can be found in
garlic, onions and shallots.
When the body rids itself of toxins, it passes through the skin
which is the largest elimination organ. Raw food increases your
detoxification rate. Drinking water helps the body rid itself of
toxins. Seaweed is high in vitamins and minerals beneficial to
the skin and also helps rid the body of toxins.
To achieve a healthy complexion, drink plenty of water and eat
plenty of raw food. What goes into your body is reflective in
your overall appearance.
About the Author: Elizabeth Kiely is the owner of EK:
http://www.eklbc.com
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