Did you know that good food, in addition to sufficient rest and exercise can help you achieve a healthy and youthful look? Knowing the kind of foods to eat, in the right proportion and combination, will go a long way in helping you stay healthy, as well as looking and feeling your best. Your daily diet should be simple yet varied, and should contain the essential nutrients the body needs.  

Water is a very vital component of every healthy diet. Drink lots of water, at least eight glasses daily, to keep your skin hydrated and supple. It also keeps your joints lubricated, reducing the risk of arthritis.

Milk is one of the best foods, provided that it’s clean and purified. Fruits and vegetables contain most of the nutrients the body requires for healthy functioning, many of which are not easily obtainable from other sources. Oranges and other citrus fruits, as well as strawberries and many other fruits contain vitamins C, A and E, which have anti-aging properties and are important anti-oxidants that protect your body from the damage caused by free radicals.  

Also, most fruits act as natural laxatives that help regulate your body’s digestive process. Foods rich in fiber – like bread and oatmeal – are important as they aid digestion and proper bowel movement. They provide roughage and fiber, which are vital for helping the body get rid of wastes.  

Dairy products and fruits such as apples, citrus, apricots, cherries, pineapples, berries, yogurt, cottage cheese, buttermilk, ricotta cheese, sugarcane, sugar beets and sour cream contain food nutrients that stimulate skin exfoliation, reduce fine lines and act as moisturizers. These nutrients, known as alpha hydroxy acids, enhance the skin texture and tone, making it look smoother and more youthful.  

Treat yourself to sea food and fresh fish like salmon, which are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids work wonders to help inhibit inflammation, reduce cholesterol levels and slow down wrinkle formation.  

The right food will also help you maintain beautiful and healthy hair. A high protein diet is recommended, since your hair is made up of proteins. Protein-rich foods include fish, poultry, beans, low fat dairy foods, liver, brewer’s yeast, wheat germ, and tofu.  

Vegetables like spinach, kale, endive, collard greens, turnip, greens, red leaf lettuce, romaine lettuce, broccoli, asparagus, mustard greens and dandelion greens contain rich amounts of the vitamin C and iron required for proper hair and tissue growth.  

It’s always better to eat a meal than to take food supplement or drugs. Use supplements only when absolutely necessary and use only as prescribed by a doctor or dietician/nutritionist. Also, avoid the use of alcohol, tobacco and any other stimulants. Additionally, cut down on junk food.

Attend to these details and make them your lifestyle. Eating healthy will keep your body in peak condition and improve your overall health.