Keep Your Skin Thriving This Winter with These 9 Foods

By Dr. Christopher Calapai

As the temperature drops, skin loses its natural moisture when faced with the cold, dry air found in winter climates. While the products you use for the transitioning weather conditions are helpful, there are natural and less expensive alternatives that will have your skin thriving without breaking the bank.

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O., an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, anti-aging medicine and chelation therapy suggests incorporating the following foods into your diet to help your skin glow and remain healthy for the fall/winter:

1. Olive Oil helps to provide your skin with healthy, unsaturated fats with anti-aging benefits. It is rich in vitamin E, and can be used to treat and prevent dry skin naturally.

2. Avocado contains fats which help to lubricate the skin and protect it from damage, and also promote clear, youthful skin. Avocados also contain anti-aging foods properties.

3. Oatmeal contains a large number of antioxidants, along with vitamins and minerals that improve skin health. The fibers in oatmeal also help slough away dead skin and prevent redness when applied topically.

4. Sweet Potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, which help to lock in moisture, give your skin a healthy glow and protect it from damage.

5. Carrots contain the carotenoids beta carotene and lycopene-both of which help shield your skin against UV damage.

6. Grapefruit contains carotenoid, which will make your skin smooth. When buying grapefruit, opt for one with a red-pinkish hue because these colors are from lycopene and it means the fruits are loaded with carotenoids. People who have higher concentration of lycopene have smoother skin.

7. Broccoli contains vitamin C which synthesizes collagen, a protein that keeps the skin firm helping to protect from wrinkles.

8. Spinach and dark, leafy greens like kale are filled with iron, omega-4 fatty acids and vitamins A, B and E, which protect skin and improve your immune system. The phytochemicals and folates also help hydrate skin and keep it healthy.

9. Coconut Oil is rich in fats and helps provide lubrication and also help prevent acne thanks to their antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.