By Brittany Galla, Life2PointOh.com
Photo Credit: Luz Adriana Villa via Flickr
Ever read celeb mags and wonder 'How do they look like THAT in a bikini?' or "Did she really just have a baby?!" Well, we do too! So we talked to celeb nutritionist and author of The Beauty Detox Solution, Kimberly Snyder, who's worked with a slew of stars - including Drew Barrymore, Fergie, LeAnn Rimes, Hilary Duff, Vince Vaughn, Owen Wilson and Channing Tatum (swoon!) - to find out her insider tips on the foods that we should all include in our diet.
"Consuming a diet of enzyme-rich foods straight from nature combined with intelligent, guided and ongoing cleansing tailored to your body's unique needs can change the way you look and feel-without sacrificing the foods you love," Snyder tell us. Check out her must-have food list for us 20-somethings:
5 Fruits and Vegetables that make you glow:
- Cucumber: "Cucumbers are a serious beauty food, packed with B vitamins, Vitamin C, Zinc, Iron, Folic Acid, Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium," said Snyder. Not only do they boost energy levels, they help to repair and smooth collagen too, reducing the appearance of cellulite and sagging."
- Seaweed: "Seaweed contains Niacin, Riboflavin, Pantothenic acid and Thiamin, all of which increase energy, promote proper brain function and encourage beautiful, healthy hair."
- Kale: "An excellent source of iron, copper, calcium, Vitamins A, C and E, kale packs double the beauty benefits of lighter green," Snyder advised.
- Apricot: "Fresh (not dried) apricots are chock full of beautifying Vitamins of A, C, E, as well as potassium, iron and beta-carotene. They're also a great natural laxative, thanks to a high cellulose and pectin content."
- Papaya: According to Snyder, this fruit is "full of enzymes, vitamins and minerals, this yummy tropical fruit helps to clear and cleanse the skin of impurities."
5 Foods that boost your energy:
- Bell peppers: "Not only will bell peppers boost your energy, but because they're bursting with vitamins A and C, they're great for keeping your skin looking bright and beautiful too," said Snyder. "Red peppers in particular are the best choice, since they contain lycopene, which has been linked to cancer prevention. Dip red peppers in salsa for an afternoon snack with a little bit of kick to it."
- Hummus: "Hummus boosts energy while also offering a healthy solution to that salt craving that so many people get. It's also delicious when paired with red peppers, carrots and cucumbers." Snyder also suggests making your own hummus with zucchini instead of cooked chickpeas, and raw tahini. "You'll still get amino acids and calcium from the raw tahini, but in a lighter, non-starchy form," she said.
- Coconut water: Synder advises swapping your soda for coconut water, which "not only is packed full of electrolytes, but has detoxifying properties as well. The best way to rehydrate naturally, coconut water will leave you with a dewy-fresh complexion and an energized body. Plus, the refreshing taste will have you feeling like you're on a tropical resort."
- Blueberries: "Have a very important presentation first thing in the morning? Pop a couple blueberries in your mouth beforehand - this delicious fruit is known to promote brain function and boost energy, perfect for when you really need to focus."
- Avocados: "The phrase 'healthy fat' isn't an oxymoron when it comes to avocados. Filled with fiber, and yes, healthy fats, avocados give you a youthful glow and keep your skin smooth," said Snyder. "They're also known to help lower cholesterol, and will keep you up and running all day. Slice up an avocado and add it to your lunchtime salad."
What questions do you have for Kimberly? (Aside from 'What's Channing's number?)
Kimberly Snyder is a celebrity nutritionist and author of The Beauty Detox Solution. Visit her site at http://www.kimberlysnyder.net/blog/ and tweet her at @kimsbeautydetox. She has appeared as nutritional expert on many top national television programs, including The Today Show, Good Morning America, E!, Extra and Good Day L.A.
RELATED STORIES:
Ready For Bikini Season? Break A Fitness Rut--In 5 Easy Steps!
10 Ways To Burn 100 Calories (Without Much Effort!)
The Best--And Safest--Way To Do A Body Cleanse
The Dirty Secrets About Your Diet
Breaking Out? Surprising Foods That Could Be The Reason
Want more? Follow us on Twitter and Facebook!
Photo Credit: Luz Adriana Villa via Flickr