Custard Apple

Custard Apple is a tropical fruit tree which grows easily. It was first cultivated in West Indies. Its botanical name is 'ANNONA SQUAMOSA'. It is very popular in India. The pulp of the fruit is mixed with milk to make custard. As it has the taste of custard it is called 'Custard Apple'. The fruit has a peculiar aroma. Custard Apple is used to make Jams, Jellies and sherbets.

The plant is propogated by grafting as well as through the seeds. Grafted plants deliver fruits from the first year itself. The plant usually flowers between March and July. The fruits should be plucked before they are ripe and stored for ripening.

Custard apple helps improve digestion and is used as a cure for vomiting, diarrhoea, dysentry and vertigo. The unripe fruit is dried and powdered and is used as a cure for treating lice. The fruit is low in calorie content and contains minerals like iron, phosphorous, calcium and riboflavin.

The plant is a evergreen shrub and reaches a maximum of 6 mts. The plant bears flowers in the mature branches and the fruits develop in the mature branches and are usually round. The flesh is white and creamy with a sugary taste. The seeds are black in colour with a shine. The seeds are not consumed for they are slightly poisonous.

An Apple a Day Keeps Doctor Away

The proverb "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" is 100% true in my opinion. Apples come in all shades of reds, greens, yellows. Apples are fat, sodium, and cholesterol free. Apples are delicious and a natural mouth freshener. Apples are a source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber such as pectin actually helps to prevent cholesterol buildup in the lining of blood vessel walls, thus reducing the incident of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Eat Apples for Good Health

It is a good to eat apples with their skin. Almost half of the vitamin C content is just underneath the skin. Most of apple's fragrance cells are also concentrated in the skin. Apple juice is good as a nutritious drink but excellent in overcoming a liverish feeling, in helping sort out digestive disturbances and for flushing the kidneys. Many of these health providing properties are retained in cider vinegar, so if you cannot obtain apples to prepare your juice you can use instead two teaspoonfuls of cider vinegar in a glass of water.

Apples may reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer apples contain relatively low amounts of Vitamin C as well as several other antioxidant compounds. The fiber content, while less than in most other fruits, helps regulate bowel movements and may thus reduce the risk of colon cancer. They also reduce the risk of heart disease, promote weight loss and controls cholesterol.

Apples are a good source of dietary fibre and vitamin C. Most of the apples fibre is contained in its skin. It contains numerous nutrients, including carbohydrates, sugar, sodium, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids and more unfortunately, in conventionally grown apples, the apple skin is also the part most likely to contain pesticide residues. Since pelling results in the loss of its valuable fibre, choose organically grown apples whenever possible.

Rinse apples under clear running water like you would any fruit. To prevent browning when slicing apples for a recipe, simply put the slices in a bowl of cold water to which a spoonful of lemon juice has been added.

10 Health Benefits of Apple

Bone Protection
French researchers found that a flavanoid called phloridzin that is found only in apples may protect post-menopausal women from osteoporosis and may also increase bone density. Boron, another ingredient in apples, also strengthens bones.

Asthma Help
One recent study shows that children with asthma who drank apple juice on a daily basis suffered from less wheezing than children who drank apple juice only once per month. Another study showed that children born to women who eat a lot of apples during pregnancy have lower rates of asthma than children whose mothers ate few apples.

Alzheimer's Prevention
A study on mice at Cornell University found that the quercetin in apples may protect brain cells from the kind of free radical damage that may lead to Alzheimer's disease.

Lower Cholesterol
The pectin in apples lowers LDL ("bad") cholesterol. People who eat two apples per day may lower their cholesterol by as much as 16 percent.

Lung Cancer Prevention
According to a study of 10,000 people, those who ate the most apples had a 50 percent lower risk of developing lung cancer. Researchers believe this is due to the high levels of the flavonoids quercetin and naringin in apples.

Breast Cancer Prevention
A Cornell University study found that rats who ate one apple per day reduced their risk of breast cancer by 17 percent. Rats fed three apples per day reduced their risk by 39 percent and those fed six apples per day reduced their risk by 44 percent.

Colon Cancer Prevention
One study found that rats fed an extract from apple skins had a 43 percent lower risk of colon cancer. Other research shows that the pectin in apples reduces the risk of colon cancer and helps maintain a healthy digestive tract.

Liver Cancer Prevention
Research found that rats fed an extract from apple skins had a 57 percent lower risk of liver cancer.

Diabetes Management
The pectin in apples supplies galacturonic acid to the body which lowers the body's need for insulin and may help in the management of diabetes.

Weight Loss
A Brazilian study found that women who ate three apples or pears per day lost more weight while dieting than women who did not eat fruit while dieting.

Health Benefits of Apple Juice
Apple Juice is rich in nutrients such as Vit. A, Vit. B, Vit. C and minerals such as iron, potassium, phosphorus, silicon, chlorine etc. Some of its important benefits are:

Benefit 1: Apple juice reduces bad cholesterol levels and enhances the cardiovascular health of a person. The risk of getting heart disease is reduced significantly by drinking apple juice.

Benefit 2: Apple juice is helpful for weight loss. Hence you can remain fit and slim by drinking apple juice.

Benefit 3: Apple juice is very rich in potassium, hence it is very beneficial for people suffering from arthritis and rheumatism.

Benefit 4: Apple juice improves the functioning and health of intestines. Hence it combats constipation effectively.

Benefit 5: Raw apple juice cleans liver and kidneys and reduces the risk of kidney and liver disease.

Benefit 6: Drinking apple juice improves digestion and eliminates harmful toxins from the body.

Benefit 7: Apple juice together with honey and milk is very useful in nervous debility.

Benefit 8: Apple juice with honey is very effective in treating pregnancy anemia.

Benefit 9: Apple juice contains antioxidants which prevent different kinds of cancer.

Benefit 10: Apple juice is very good for lungs and it lowers the risk of asthma.

History:
The word Apple is derived from the old English word aeppel. Apple is a fruit that is cultivated and consumed across the world, not only for its sweet taste but also for its nutritional value.

Consuming apples helps lower heart disease as well as helps a great deal in weight control. There are hundreds of different types of available across the globe and are either consumed fresh or baked into apple pies, converted into juices, jellies, jams and many more mouth-watering products.

Archaeologists have stumbled upon the carbonized remains of the apple pertaining to the Iron age in a few prehistoric lakes of Switzerland. They also came across evidence which confirmed that apples were eaten by people of the Stone age as well. The apple tree is believed to be the oldest cultivated trees in the world, however, its exact origin is not known. Some historians believe that apple trees were first planted and cultivated by the Romans, and that the fruit's origin can be traced to South Western Asia. While on the other hand, some believe that apples originated in Kazakhstan in South Central Asia.

In the 13th century BCE, Ramesses II (Egyptian Pharaoh) ordered for apples to be cultivated in the Nile Delta region. Further, apples were also cultivated across the Rhine Valley region, and around 35 different types of apples were cultivated by the end of the 1st century CE. When the English colonists came to the US in the 1600s, they found only the crab apple variety. They also noticed that the orchards produced lower number of fruits because the number of honeybees were less. So they shipped apple tree cuttings, seeds and beehives all the way from England to the US in early 1622. Once the shipment arrived, the English colonists immediately started planting apple orchards.

Historians also mention about a man named William Blackstone, who brought a bag of apple seeds along with him from Europe into Massachusetts, USA. He is known to have planted apple orchards on Beacon Hill in Boston as well as Rhode Island. In 1632, the first governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, John Winthrop was gifted the Conants Island in Boston Harbor. In response to this generous gift, John promised to plant an apple orchard on the island and also pledged to give a fifth of the fruits produce every year to the governor, whoever he may be. By the 1640s, apple orchards were well established across the US.

The first commercial apple tree nursery, called William Prince Nursery was opened by Robert Prince in 1737 in the US. This nursery consisted of exotic varieties of plants and trees brought from across the globe, and was a prized nursery. In 1775, the Britishers (time of the revolutionary war) who occupied the Long Island, New York prized the nursery so much that they even went forward and appointed an armed guard to protect it. Further, in 1789, George Washington (first US president) along with the vice president, and some others visited the William Prince Nursery. However, George Washington was not impressed by the garden and stated that the shrubs in the nursery were trifled and the flowers were few.

Then there is the legend about 'Johnny Appleseed' that Americans hold on to so dearly. The popular folk hero's actual name was John Chapmen (1774-1845), a farmer whose desire was to cultivate so many apples that nobody would sleep hungry. He traveled from one land to another planting apple orchards and is believed to have traveled approximately 10,000 square miles of the Frontier country to fulfill his dream. He would dry the apple seeds, put them in bags and give them to passersby (heading West) he met. He devoted his entire life towards the 'apple cause' until his death in 1845.

In the early 20th century, another man named Sydney Babson had also devoted his life to planting apple orchards. In 1960, he was awarded the title of "Orchardist of the Year." By 2004, 130 billion pounds of apples were cultivated across 91 countries covering over 13 million acres of land, with 35 states from the US producing apples worth $1.76 billion. Today, the apple is the most widely cultivated fruit tree in the world, with China as the leading producer, followed by the US at second place. Some of the other leading producers are Iran, Italy, France and Turkey.

Apples have not fallen from the sky. Many people from the past have taken painstaking efforts to plant and cultivate apple orchards, just so that today we can enjoy this wonderful fruit. Hopefully, we will remember their efforts and give due credit to them the next time we eat an apple.

Eat Radish to Keep Healthy

The Radish (Raphanus sativus) is an edible root vegetable of the Brassicaceae family which was domesticated in Europe, in pre-Roman times. They are grown and consumed throughout the world. Radishes have several varieties, varying in size, color and duration of required cultivation time. There are some radishes which are grown for their seeds; oilseed radishes are grown, as the name implies, for oil production. Radish can sprout from seed to small plant in as little as 3 days.

Radish can be eaten raw or cooked . The most important use of radishes is garnishing or it is used as an ingredient in green salads. Radishes are root vegetables which resemble beets or turnips in appearance and texture, but have a distinct flavor. It is the root of a plant classified in the mustard family.

The flavor of radish may vary from mild to peppery and pungent, depending on the variety.  Radishes are available all year long, and are at their peak from June through September. There are 5 main varieties of radishes Red Glode, daikons, Black, white Icicles, California Mammoth White.

Radishes and their greens are an excellent source of vitamin C and a powerful antioxidant. It has anti-inflammatory properties too.  Radish leaves are a good source of calcium.  Radishes contain cancer-protective properties.  The sulphur based chemicals present in radish increase the flow of bile.  This improves the health of gall bladder.  Radish can protect as against ailments such as Jaundice, piles, urinary disorders, weightloss  cancer Leucoderma, skin disorders, kidney disorders and insect bites.

Radishes are usually eaten raw or in salads.  They are primarily used in Japanese and Indian cooking. To retain the freshness and crunchiness it is advised to soak Radish in cold water. Radishes come in a number of varieties of shapes, sizes and colors.

Nutritional Value
Radishes are rich in ascorbic acid, folic acid, and potassium. They are a good source of vitamin B6, riboflavin, magnesium, copper, and calcium. One cup of sliced red radish bulbs provides approximately 20 kcal, largely from carbohydrates.

Health Benefits of Radish

The benefits of radish against certain ailments and on certain body parts are listed below:

Jaundice: Radish is very good for the liver and the stomach and it is a very good detoxifier too, that is, it purifies blood. It is very useful in jaundice as it helps removing bilirubin and also checks its production. It also controls destruction of red blood cells during jaundice by increasing supply of fresh oxygen in the blood. The black radish is more preferred in jaundice. The leaves of radish are also very useful in treatment of jaundice.

Piles: Radish is rich in roughage, i.e. indigestible carbohydrates. This improves digestion, retains water, cures constipation (one of the main causes for piles) and hence gives relief in piles. Being a very good detoxifier, it helps heal up piles fast. Its juice also soothes the digestive and excretory system and this also relieves piles.

Urinary Disorders: Radishes are diurectic in nature, i.e. increase production of urine. Juice of radish also cures inflammation and burning feeling during urinating. It also cleans the kidneys and inhibits infections in kidneys and urinary system. Thus it helps a great deal in treating urinary disorders.

Weight Loss: Radishes are very filling, i.e. fills your stomach and satisfies your hunger easily without giving you many calories, as they are low in digestible carbohydrates, high in roughage and contain a lot of water. It is a very good dietary option for those trying to lose weight.

Cancer: Being a very good detoxifier and rich in vitamin-C, folic and anthocyanins, radish helps cure many types of cancer, specially those of colon, kidney, intestines, stomach and oral cancer.

Leucoderma: The detoxifying and anti carcinogenic characteristics of radish make it useful in treatment of Leucoderma. The radish seeds are used in this case. They should be powdered and soaked in vinegar or ginger juice or cows urine and then applied on the white patches. Eating radish also aids treatment of Leucoderma.

Skin Disorders: Vitamin-C, phosphorus, zinc and some members of vitamin-B complex that are present in radish, are good for skin. The water in it helps maintain moisture of the skin. Smashed raw radish is a very good cleanser and serves as a very efficient face pack. Due to its disinfectant properties, radish also helps cure skin disorders, such as drying up, rashes, cracks etc. and also refreshes it.

Kidney Disorders: Being diurectic, cleanser and disinfectant, it helps cure many kidney disorders. Its diurectic properties help wash away the toxins accumulated in the kidneys. Cleansing properties clean kidneys up and lessens accumulation of toxins in the blood, thereby decreasing their concentration in the kidneys. Its disinfectant properties protect the kidneys from any infections too. Thus it is good for overall health of the kidneys.

Insect Bites: It has anti pruritic properties and can be used as an effective treatment for insect bites, stings of bees, hornets, wasps etc. Its juice also reduces pain and swelling and soothes the affected area.

Fever: It brings down the body temperature and relieves inflammation due to fever. Drink radish juice mixed with black salt. Being a good disinfectant, it also fights infections which cause fever, thereby helping cure it.

Respiratory Disorders, Bronchitis and Asthma: Radish is an anti congestive, i.e. it relieves congestion of respiratory system including nose, throat, wind-pipe and lungs, due to cold, infection, allergies and other causes. It is a good disinfectant and also rich in vitamins that protect respiratory system from infections.

Liver & Gallbladder: Radish is especially beneficial for liver and gallbladder functions. It regulates production and flow of bile and bilirubin, acids, enzymes and removes excess bilirubin from the blood, being a good detoxifier. It also contains enzymes like myrosinase, diastase, amylase and esterase. It protects liver and gallbladder from infections and ulcers and soothes them.

Other Benefits: Apart from above benefits, radish is a good appetizer, mouth and breathe freshener, laxative, regulates metabolism, improves blood circulation, is a good treatment for headache, acidity, constipation, nausea, obesity, sore throat, whooping cough, gastric problems, gallbladder stones, dyspepsia etc.

Finding it hard to digest the above stuff? Well! We suggest you have some slices of radish. That may help you and enhance your appetite for the health benefits of vegetables and herbs.

History
The descriptive Greek name of the genus Raphanus means "quickly appearing" and refers to the rapid germination of these plants. Raphanistrum, from the same Greek root, is an old name once used for this genus. The common name "radish" is derived from Latin radix (root).

Although the radish was a well-established crop in Hellenistic and Roman times that leads to the assumption that it was brought into cultivation at an earlier time, Zohary and Hopf note that "there are almost no archeological records available "to help determine its earlier history and domestication. Wild forms of the radish and its relatives the mustards and turnip can be found over west Asia and Europe, suggesting that their domestication took place somewhere in that area. However Zohary and Hopf conclude, "Suggestions as to the origins of these plants are necessarily based on linguistic considerations.

How to Get Rid of Bloating / Puffiness in the Face

How to Get Rid of Bloating in the Face

Experiencing a puffy / bloated face in the morning or during the day is a common problem amongst many adults.

Through such symptoms our bodies indicate internal health disorders; however, there is precisely no reason to take stress – because this problem can be cured easily!

While a bloated or puffy looking face could be a result of something as simple as an infection like the common cold to an allergic reaction to foods or other substances, a leading skin specialist spells out the causes and easy solutions to a bloated face.

Improper diet: Lack of a balanced diet can result in a puffy face. You need to increase fat intake in your body, so that your skin stays supple. Also, if there is a shortage of beta-carotene or vitamin C in your body, it will show in your face.

For immediate nourishment opt for watermelon juice. Put a large piece of the fruit, along with the seeds, in a blender, extract the juice and drink up.

Allergies: Allergies can cause hives, with swelling in the mouth as well as on the face. Allergy to certain foods can cause reaction to make your face and lips look swollen. If the allergic reaction is severe, one must contact a medical practioner asap.

Low intake of fluids: While working / living in air-conditioned building, people don’t tend to feel thirty. They don't know that dehydration is one of the major reasons for a puffy face. Our bodies tend to retain as much water as they can if they are dehydrated. Unfortunately, this excess water is stored in the face. Hence, one must drink water regularly to get rid of bloated face.

Infections: Some infections such as conjunctivitis, salivary gland infections, a bad tooth, a sty as well as sinusitis can cause an inflammation of the face. Cure for these conditions generally depends on the root cause of the infection.

Alcohol intake: Alcoholic drinks, be it beer, whisky, wine, brandy etc make your body dehydrated. Specially beer is believed to be a major cuplrit for puffiness in the body.  After taking alcoholic drinks you tend to feel thirsty. In such conditions, the body responds by storing as much water as possible in different parts of the body – and face is not an exception. Hence it is strictly advised to cut on alcohol if you want to get rid of a puffy face.

Injury: Any kind of injury to the face can also cause swelling. Trauma to the head, face and neck can result in different areas of the face to swell up. However, this is a serious condition and doctor’s intervention is advised for speedy recovery.

Simple tips to get rid of a bloated / puffy face:

 

Make sure you drink plenty of water everyday. Keep a bottle of water by your bedside table so you can drink whenever you feel thirsty. If you wake up and experience puffyness in your face, reach for some water immediately and drink up.

 

A warm compress also benefits in reducing swelling in case of sinusitis.

 

Place soaked tea bags over the swollen areas. The tannin which is present in tea helps to ease the puffiness. Herbal tea bags such as chamomile are known to be the best for this method.

 

Applying white area of egg to your face also helps in getting rid of puffiness.

 

Aloe Vera’s antioxidant and vitamin E content make it excellent for improving blood circulation and flushing out excessive fluids from on the face. Simply start applying aloe vera juice or gel on your face.

 

"Avoid tea or coffee", says our skin expert. Since these are diuretics and will flush even more water out of your system.

Face massage is a quick, easy and effective method to treat face bloating.  How to do it? Gently. In half-moon motions (always going up, to prevent dragging your skin down) lightly massage your face with your ring and middle fingers. If it is eye puffiness which’s bothering you the most, use only your ring finger in the under-eye area, as it’s the weakest finger and won’t be so likely to affect the delicate skin.

Undergo cardio, weight training, and face exercises: Workouts are a great way to slim down your body and face. Weight training and cardio exercises, when combined with proper diet, can help you burn more calories and lose face fat.  Face exercises target the muscles in your face particularly.  For instance there are many double chin exercises which specifically target your double chin, as well as exercises for your cheeks, jaw, neck, forehead, etc.

Avoid eating salty foods: Salt causes your body to retain much water, and this results in facial bloating and also a double chin. When you snack with food loaded with lots of salt, you are likely to feel thirsty and your face will look swollen the next day. So this means you will have to say goodbye to chips, burgers, pizza, and other foods with high sodium content. Ideal thing is to prepare your own food at home so that you can control the amount of salt you consume.

Eat more fruits and vegetables: Say goodbye to those processed foods in the fridge. Start giving preference to something natural like fruits and veggies to reduce the bloating / puffiness on your face. These natural and healthy foods contain water which keep you hydrated and prevent your face from retaining water. Try to eat atleast three servings of veggies and three servings of fruits a day. Instead of consuming a chocolate bar, snack on a fruit salad or a bunch of grapes. Fruits and veggies contain fewer calories, are rich in fiber, and more anti-oxidants; that’s why they are recommended to those who want to stay fit.

Nutrition & Healthy Diet

Healthy and nutritious food is very important for maintaining a good health. Healthy food involves, regular and timely food, juices, nuts, snacks and much more. A balanced diet, good food habits are essential for a healthy life.

In the normal course of life, we forget to take necessary nutrition that is required for our body and hence we tend to get into many life style diseases. It is very essential for a person to know and understand the benefits of nature's creation like fruits, vegetables, nuts,etc.

You can find useful articles on nutrition and health benefits of various fruits and vegetables. Read on and add these to your daily life. The value of food is more when it is taken in a systematic manner and also by understanding the benefits of every bite we take.

Custard Apple - Health Benefits: Custard Apple promotes digestion and cures diarrhea.

Apples are rich in vitamins and helps to reduce risks of colon cancer, prostrate cancer and lung cancer.

Radishes and their greens provide an excellent source of vitamin C and a powerful antioxidant. It has anti-inflammatory properties too.  Radish leaves are a good source of calcium.  Radishes contain cancer-protective properties.Â

Chives are known for their beneficial effect on the digestive system and blood pressure. Chives are said to reduce the risk of several types of cancers.

Coconut is known for its antifungal, anti bacterial properties: Coconut oil forms the base of many Ayurvedic medicinal preparations.

Cherries reduce pain and inflammation: Cherries are good source of many vitamins, minerals and are tasty to eat.

Plums lowers age-related macular degeneration: Plums are sweet, juicy and are a good source of Vitamin c, Vitamin A, Vitamin B2 and Potassium.

Spinach when cooked is an excellent source of Iron and Calcium: It is recommended for pregnant women in the first 3 months for its folic acid contents

Beetroots rich in potassium and fiber: Beetroots contains good amount of folate, potassium and manganese. They are less in calories and are effective in curing skin problems.

Cauliflower is good for the heart and reduces the risk of cancer: Cauliflower is highly nutritious and is effective in curing many ailments. It is rich in folate and is good for pregnant woman.

Mangoes are rich in Iron and Vitamins: Mangoes supply ample potassium, making them ideal for hypertensive patients or anyone looking to replenish energy after physical activity.

Tomatoes reduce the risk of heart attack: Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant.

Musk Melon - Tropical Delight: Musk melon is a tropical fruit which is been cultivated for a very long time. It is a rich source of vitamin 'C' and is effective in reducing body heat.

Cabbage helps cure ulcers and prevents colon cancer: Cabbage is a well known common vegetable. Its is low in calories and is long known for its healing properties.

Bitter Gourd - Health Benefits: Bitter Gourd is a tropical vegetable. It is a well known cure for diabetes.

Avocado - for fitness and health: Avocado is rich in pottasium content. The fruit is also a good source of vitamins.

Papaya - A rich source of Minerals and Fibre : Papaya has high nutritional benefits. It is rich in Anti-oxidants, Minerals and Fibre. It also helps in Skin Treatments.

Oats - Fibre food that cures constipation: Oats have some unique fatty acids and antioxidants which together with Vitamin E slow cell damage.

Nutritional benefits of Watermelon: Watermelon is highly refreshing during summer. It does not contain cholesterol and helps in eye sight also.

Nutritional benefits of Banana: Banana helps in the treatment of Depression, Anemia, Blood Pressure, Brain power, Constipation, etc.

Almond - A highly Nutritious fruit: Consumption of Almond lowers cholesterol levels, reduces the risk of lifestyle diseases and gives overall wellness

Egg - A nutritious food: Egg is a healthy and nutritious food. Lecithin in eggs prevents the absorption of cholesterol of egg and other sources too

Calcium- The bone builder: Calcium Builds Strong Bones. Get calcium from greens, beans, or fortified foods. Vitamin D controls your body's use of calcium.

Healthy food for Stress Free Life: Nutritious and balanced diet is a must to free ourself from the physical and mental diseases and relieve stress

Mushrooms - A highly nutritious food: Mushrooms are rich in minerals, vitamin D (ergosterol), thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), dietary fibre as well as all the essential amino acids and are low in fat and calories.

Gooseberry (Amla) - Rich in Vitamin C: Amla or Gooseberry has many nutritious benefits. The amla has been found to be the most abundant source of Vitamin C in the plant kingdom.

Health Benefits of Zucchini: Zucchini when consumed regularly helps maintain blood pressure at normal levels.

10 Foods to Clean Your Facial Skin

Everybody wants clean, healthy, and great looking skin. Although moisturizers are great, as are multiple facial products you can use at home, and several makeup products you can purchase, there are also different foods which will help clear your skin, and give you that young, glowing face you are in search of.

Rich with many different ingredients, healthy oils, and essential nutrients, these are 10 Foods which clean your facial skin, and will give you that young, healthy glow, and the all natural skin appearance you are searching for.

1. Avocados – Not only are avocados used in many facial products, but the skin as well as the fruit of the avocado are exceptionally rich in Vitamin B. Niacin (b-3), is very essential to smooth, healthy skin, and can help with the appearance of irritated, red, or puffy skin. This fruit can be consumed either in a salad, in a smoothie, or on its own; or, you can choose to use the fruit as a facial rub, with other natural ingredients, to help improve the skin’s overall appearance.
2. Berries – Vitamin C is another essential ingredient for healthy skin, and berries have it. From strawberries to blackberries, the vitamins will work to help develop collagen fibers, and ensure younger looking skin. Antioxidants are also very high in the berries one consumes, and these are essential to helping with inflammation. Whether you consume smoothies on a regular basis, or just eat a few strawberries every day, they are great resources for healthier looking beautiful skin.
3. Cottage Cheese – Cottage Cheese is rich in Selenium and Vitamin E which help fight free radicals, as well as provide higher antioxidant counts for clean and healthy looking skin. Certain reports also claim that cottage cheese can help prevent specific types of cancers, if eaten as part of a healthy diet plan.
4. Almonds (nuts) – Almonds are rich in Fatty acids which help maintain the cell membrane, and help remove harmful toxins from the body. They also help retain water, which gives the skin the plump, healthy appearance you want over your face and body. Moreover, the healthy oils and fats in nuts are good for overall heart health, and maintaining a healthy weight, which is something everyone wants to attain.
5. Potatoes – A baked potato can provide a high amount of copper the body requires, for a healthy glow. The high zinc and Vitamin C count also helps in creating more elastic in the skin, providing young, healthy, and vibrant looking skin, at all times of the day.
6. Healthy whole grains – Although grains which are low on the glycemic index cause a spike in blood sugars, whole grains are on the high end of the spectrum, meaning they are also going to help in keeping the young looking, healthy appearance you want, when you are considering skin care, and the best looking skin possible. You do have to make sure they are high in fiber (look for foods listed high by the Whole Grain Council), for the superior results, and for the most benefits to your skin.
7. Flax seed – If you do not love fish, or other foods which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, flax seed oil is the perfect solution for your skin. The high omega-3 count is going to help with hydrating the body, diluting sebum levels, unclogging pores, and helping prevent and fight acne. The healthy oils found in this flax seed oil, will result in natural glow, and will provide you with the health benefits you need, for young, healthy skin.
8. Yogurt – High in protein content, yogurt is going to help create firmer, more elastic looking skin. Greek yogurt is even more beneficial, as it contains more than twice the amount of protein, and is rich in fiber, as regular blends of yogurt which you would consume. As an added benefit, there are various great flavors, and you can go with plain if you add some berries, or honey, for a little more flavor.
9. Pepper – With green, yellow, orange, and red, not only are peppers fun and colorful on your plate, they can also help with the crow’s feet you experience below your eyes. Carotenoids (antioxidants in these peppers) help with wrinkle prevention, and if eaten on a regular basis they can also help reduce wrinkles, for younger, and for fine and healthy looking skin.
10. Mango – Not only is it a delicious fruit, it can also help with the overall health and appearance of your skin. Mango contains more than 80% of the Vitamin A you need to consume during the course of the day, and it can help maintain the skin, and its overall look. The high levels of antioxidants also help fight off free radicals, meaning you are not going to notice premature, or aging skin, at a younger age than you would hope to. In addition, it is low in calories, and it is a great fruit to add to your diet regime.