Eat right for a glowing skin

Most of us would like to have glowing skin, especially as we get older. The good news is that one doesn't have to wait until summer to catch some healthy sun rays. A recent research suggests that tucking into vegetables and fruits gives you a healthy glow and makes you more attractive than through a suntan. The study, led by Dr Ian Stephen at The University of Nottingham, showed that people who eat more portions of fruit and vegetables per day have a more golden complexion, thanks to carotenoids. Dr Jamuna Pai, cosmetic physician, says, "Plants are packed with the goodness of high-quality nutrients, which are beneficial for immunity and skin repair. Plant foods contain thousands of other compounds in addition to complex carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals that are known as phytonutrients, which are beneficial to humans." For a healthy, natural glow, a daily minimum intake of five portions of fruit and vegetables is a must. Proper nutrition comes from a healthy diet. Dr Eileen Canday, chief dietician, Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, suggests, "Colour your food with red, orange green, white and purple. If you have pink grapefruits, watermelons or red tomatoes, you are consuming lycopene. Besides, berries and grapes also give you red-purple anthocyanins and polyphenols. If orange makes you feel good, then freak out on carrots, mangoes or pumpkins rich in B- carotene. White is the colour of onions and garlic, which contain flavonoids." Mickey Mehta, holistic fitness guru, warns, "Don't neglect your veggies as it is because of them that you are flaunting your silky tresses or youthful complexion. Vegetables not only add colour to your skin making it porcelain-like, but also help in cleansing your system." Do your skin and body a favour and only eat fresh foods. Fresh fruits in summer like plums, peaches or nectarines are rich sources of phytonutrients and antioxidants, says homeopath Dr Shreepad Khedekar. Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach are the main source of antioxidants. Eat carrots, tomatoes, sweet potato, kale, broccoli, spinach and red peppers. Advises Dr Khedekar, "Vegetable juices can be made using spinach, beetroot and amla, among others."