Spring is here! And summer is just around the corner! This means it is the perfect time of the year to enjoy salads and raw fresh veggies under the warmth of the sun.
As you know, the food you eat has a great impact on your skin's health. But did you know that some of the vegetables you eat and love will make your skin glow more when consumed raw? Now that the days are getting warmer, we thought we could share with you some of the vegetables that have more benefits for the skin when consumed fresh and uncooked.
Garlic
Garlic contains a powerful substance called allicin that can kill bacteria in your skin, helping you prevent and fight acne. This substance also reduces swelling, inflamation and activates blood circlulation. However, when exposed to high temperatures, garlic's allicin is decomposed. Which is why garlic can be more beneficial for the skin when consumed raw.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a great source of hydration, as they are made up of mostly water. This can help keep your skin moisturized and prevent dryness and flakiness. Cucumbers are also rich in vitamin C, which can help boost collagen production, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Vitamin C decreases when exposed to heat, which is why is better to consume cucumbers in salads, sandwiches or as a fresh snack.
Bell peppers
Similarly to cucumbers, Bell peppers are a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its elasticity, and a lack of collagen can lead to wrinkles and sagging skin. Bell peppers are also rich in vitamin E, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Luckily vitamin E is resistant to heat so even if you cook your peppers, some benefits will remain.
Kale
Kale is another leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients that can benefit the skin. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants such as beta-carotene and lutein. These nutrients can help protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and free radicals. Kale is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in the skin and improve its overall appearance. The heat-sensitive components of kale are vitamin C, lutein, and Omega-3, it is why it is better to incorporate raw kale in your diet.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that is packed with nutrients that can benefit the skin. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants such as beta-carotene and sulforaphane. Sulforaphane has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce redness and irritation in the skin. Additionally, broccoli is a good source of folate, which can help promote healthy cell growth and repair. Research conducted in 2008, showed that cruciferous vegetables lose their cell tissue regeneration powers when cooked, this could be caused by the loss of folate, when this component is exposed to heat.
Overall, raw vegetables are an excellent source of nutrients that can benefit the skin in many ways. Incorporating these vegetables into your diet can help improve the appearance and health of your skin, leading to a more youthful, radiant complexion. So, the next time you’re looking for a healthy snack, reach for some raw veggies and enjoy the benefits for your skin! Of course, let's not forget there are other vegetables that are more beneficial when consumed cooked. So subscribe to our blog and follow our social media for more tips on nutricosmetics, and an upcoming blog about the benefits of cooked veggies.