Healthy nutrition is an important part of living; it helps you to live a longer, healthier and more fulfilling life. The best food to put into your body is food most closely in its natural form. These foods are known as “whole foods” and will keep your body happy, healthy and away from any harmful preservatives.  Whole foods give you the energy and proper nutrition that will keep your body functioning optimally as well as youthful, glowing skin!

Eating Whole Foods Increases Nutrients and Helps Cleanse the Body of Toxins

Eating a whole foods diet can cleanse your body of toxins while increasing nutrients which is essential for healthy skin. The body organs that contribute to beautiful, healthy skin such as the liver, kidneys, adrenals, thyroid as well as the intestines work together. For example, when the liver and kidneys that help filter out toxins become overtaxed from eating unhealthy foods, breakouts can occur. If the body’s hormones become unbalanced from eating processed foods, problematic skin conditions can occur. If the thyroid isn’t working properly, it can cause skin to become dry and flaky.  Finally, if the intestines aren’t expelling waste, skin can become thick, blemished and oily.

The Vitamins and Minerals in Whole Foods Contribute to Healthy Skin 

Whole foods contain everything from antioxidants such as vitamin C and K2, lycopene, soy protein, silica and niacin to omega-3 fatty acids. These beneficial substances can help skin glow, restore collagen production, help regenerate new skin cells, reduce inflammation, increase skin elasticity and even smooth out wrinkles!

Ways to Incorporate Whole Foods into your Diet

A great way to implement whole foods into your diet is to simply make better choices. For example, choose to eat whole grains instead of refined grains whenever possible. Rather than taking supplements for fiber, you can eat fruits, vegetables and beans. Instead of picking up chicken nuggets for your kids, cook a skinless chicken breast with a healthy side of steamed vegetables. If you are craving some sour cream and onion chips, bake a potato with chopped green onions and light sour cream instead. Eating fresh berries with some wheat toast and eggs is better than choosing to eat a strawberry toaster pastry or breakfast bar. A blue colored slushy can be substituted with a blueberry smoothie made with blueberries, yogurt and a frozen banana. 

The Many Overall Benefits of Whole Foods

Eating whole foods is our greatest chance for improving our health and preventing disease. Whole foods such as vegetables, whole grains, fruits, nuts and legumes retain their fiber as well as the whole portfolio of nutrients that are often removed in processed foods. Whole foods contain powerful antioxidants that will help break down fat and cholesterol found in your body. Eating whole foods will also increase your intake of good fats versus bad fats. Whole foods are also an excellent source of fiber, which will help your body feel fuller for a longer amount of time. Include more whole foods in your diet and improve your quality of life. You will feel happier, healthier and keep your body away from harmful foods that cause your body to slow down and put you at risk for disease.