By Heather McClees
There’s a saying that our nails, hair and skin often tell us how healthy we are and are signs of how healthy our diet is. Foods that inflame our cells and cause a breakdown end up tearing apart the collagen, keratin and elastin that provide supple skin, strong and silky hair, and strong, fast-growing nails.
Toxic overload, stress and poor diet all contribute to lackluster skin, dry and brittle hair, and brittle nails that never seem to grow. Here are five of the best to offer up some of the most overall nutritional components to provide amazing nails, hair and skin quickly.
1. Raw Organic Almonds
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that supports collagen production and provides anti-inflammatory benefits for the body. Almonds also contain a large amount of plant-based protein, rich in amino acids that are needed to support collagen growth and strengthen the body. Almonds are also a great source of calcium, that provides nutritional support for our bones, hair, skin, teeth and nails.
2. Orange Root Veggies
Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin and winter squash all contain high amounts of vitamin A that support your nails, hair and skin as well. These foods are also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that lowers stress, which can weaken collagen, elastin and keratin in the body. vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant to combat free radical production that can lead to aging.
When cooking these foods, always steam, bake or cook in a slow cooker instead of frying them. This will enhance their antioxidant content without overcooking them.
3. Raw Organic Pumpkin Seeds
Every part of the pumpkin is a superfood. Pumpkin seeds are some of the most potent, alkaline and nutritious seeds you can eat. They’re rich in protein, iron, magnesium, potassium, biotin and omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also alkaline-forming like almonds, so they build the body instead of break it down.
Pumpkin seeds improve your mood, energy and, of course, your nails, hair and skin. Eat ¼ cup a day and you’ll see stronger nails, hair and clearer skin in no time.
4. Oats
Oats are one of the most inexpensive superfoods you can eat. Even if you don’t digest glutinous grains well, gluten-free oats are there to save you. Whole grains are important for most everyone’s diets. Whether you choose wild rice, wheat products, oats, barley, rye, brown rice, black rice or quinoa, they’re all filled with certain properties to provide your body with support.
Oats have specific benefits that your nails, hair and skin will appreciate. These nutrients include: protein, biotin and other B vitamins, anti-inflammatory properties, magnesium and potassium. They are also filled with fiber and antioxidants. Oats lower inflammation, clear the skin, reduce stress, and provide your cells with nutritional support.
5. Greens
Your body soaks up the nutrients from green foods like a magical nutritional sponge! Vitamins A, C, E and K, and even B vitamins and iron are all provided to your body when you eat leafy greens. Green foods such as spinach, broccoli, kale, watercress and collards also contain a good amount of calcium, magnesium and potassium. Minerals are crucial to the health of your nails, hair and skin. They’re also water-rich so they won’t dehydrate your body, and they provide an alkaline environment to clear out toxins in the body.
You truly can eat your way to both good health and to natural beauty. Leave the pricey products on the shelf and fill your diet with whole foods. You won’t believe how much your body will respond and appreciate your efforts.
Visit www.onegreenplanet.org for the full version of this advice feature.
