6 Tasty Snack That Will Make You Glow!
Time to put that handful of potato chips and box of Duncan Hines Brownie mix down! Tasty though they may be, such grease and sugar-laden delights aren't so easy on the figure or the skin. Instead, nosh on something that will do you good both inside and out. Healthy snacks are not only tasty and filling, but they can also help get your glow on. Here, a few of our faves…
Melon. Open up a fleshy ripe cantaloupe and you can just imagine what all the juicy goodness is going to do for your skin. Melons are high in water content and super hydrating for your skin. Treats like watermelon, cantaloupe, and mangoes are heavy in carotenoids and these scrumptious fruits are even said to protect your skin from painful sunburns. We treat our kids to "melon popsicles" by simply spearing cantaloupe spears onto wooden skewers.
Green Tea. This stuff is high in the antioxidant catechin, which reportedly has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It's also a healthier and cleaner way of starting your day than with a predictable cup of Joe. In warmer weather, keep a pitcher of iced green tea sweetened with agave and fresh mint in the fridge - delish!
Broccoli. It may not have been every boy or girl's favorite snack as a child, but as grownups, we really come to understand why mom always included a bowl of those big green florets during dinner. This veggie contains heaps of vitamin A (which helps in the turnover of skin cells) and sulforaphane, which helps to reduce redness and skin inflammation. Broccoli also reportedly helps keep gums looking healthy. Big smile! We like to experiment with new recipes - check out sites like 101Cookbooks for interesting ideas (like broccoli with apples, shallots and nuts).
Nuts and Seeds. If you suddenly get stuck in the carpool lane and begin to feel a rumble in your tummy, almonds, walnuts and toasted pumpkin seeds are a perfect "glowtastic" snack. They contain anti-inflammatory and immunity-enhancing nutrients, including vitamin E, which are said to help reduce skin flare-ups. So, keep a stash in the glove compartment and munch away!
Chocolate. Yup, that's right. Dark chocolate contains high levels of cocoa flavanols which are said to help skin look softer and more hydrated. Plus, it's the ultimate mood-lifter. Not too much now, this is not about "how to gain an extra gut!" - one small square (about an inch) per day will do it.
Tomatoes. These juicy gems are packed with anti-oxidant power and lots of water content (like melon) to give your skin a big boost. Snack on a handful of sweet grape tomatoes (Trader Joe's carries organic ones that are addictive) or slice up some heirlooms with fresh mozzarella cheese, drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle fresh basil.
