As winter approaches, it's not just the holiday and festive cheer that fills the air; it's also a range of skin and hair-related concerns. One of the most common beauty challenges that the colder months bring is dry skin. With the arrival of winter, many of us find ourselves dealing with dry, flaky, and lacklustre skin. While moisturizing creams and natural remedies can provide temporary relief, the real solution lies in our diet and the nutrients we provide our bodies. What you eat reflects on your face and your overall appearance. Regularly consuming a healthy diet will undoubtedly give your skin a healthy glow.
Also Read: Start Your Morning Right! 5 Nourishing Drinks For Healthy And Glowing Skin
How to Treat Dry Skin Internally?
Our diets need to adapt to the changing seasons. Following the same routine won't challenge your body, preventing it from rejuvenating and bouncing back into action. India's diverse seasons also bring abundant seasonal produce to the markets, inviting you to embrace a more varied and season-friendly diet. During the harsh Indian winter, it's crucial to load up on nutrient-dense foods that offer extra nourishment to your body.
What Are the Main Causes of Dry Skin?
Nutritionist Anju Sood emphasizes, "Two significant factors can lead to dry skin: genetics and your diet. Without a balanced diet, your skin struggles to nourish itself due to the lack of essential nutrients."
Nutritionist Rupali Dutta reveals, "Dry skin might indicate insufficient fat consumption. We recommend that 15 per cent of your daily calories should come from fats and oils. These days, when people become overly conscious of their fat intake, it can drop below the recommended level."
The weather also plays a significant role, sapping moisture from the skin due to the cold. We can prevent this by consuming adequate antioxidants, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A," adds nutritionist Rupali Datta.
Also Read: Say Goodbye To Acne: 10 Expert Diet Rules To Keep Your Skin Clear
A good diet of healthy fats and nutrients is good for the skin.
Image Credit: iStock
Which Foods Are Good for Dry Skin?
Nutritionist Sood advises, "To maintain healthy skin, focus on consuming ample vitamins and nutrients. For skin health, pay particular attention to Vitamins A, C, D, and E. However, the most crucial element is staying well-hydrated by drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water daily for healthy, beautiful skin."
Now, let's explore how your kitchen pantry can help you combat dry and flaky skin during the winter.
1. Sweet Potatoes
This humble winter favourite is rich in Vitamin A, essential for skin repair, and beta-carotene, which shields the skin from winter's harsh effects. Here are some sweet potato recipes you can include in your winter diet.
2. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are packed with antioxidants, Vitamin E, and essential fatty acids that nourish your body from within. Regular consumption helps repair skin cell damage, promotes skin cell regeneration, and leaves your skin feeling smoother and more supple. A handful a day of almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds is sufficient.
3. Spinach
This seasonal delight is a powerhouse of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, including iron and skin-friendly Vitamin E. The vitamins A and C in spinach initiate and maintain the skin repair process. Spinach is also loaded with antioxidants and hydration, providing your skin with an extra boost. Try out these amazing spinach recipes.
4. Avocados
Avocados have a creamy texture and a nutty aroma, making them a favourite. They are a rich source of antioxidants, beta-carotene, folate, omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, providing your skin with extra nourishment during the winter and keeping dryness at bay. Avocados are nutrient-dense and are often referred to as "nature's butter." Try these healthy and yummy avocado recipes.
5. Fish
Essential fatty acids work wonders for skin and hair health, and fish is one of the richest sources of omega-3. When including fish in your diet, opt for healthy cooking methods such as steaming, grilling, poaching, or baking, rather than deep frying. Fish consumption is also linked to reducing inflammation. Salmon, Mackerel, and Sardines are some of the best choices for the season.
What you eat reflects on your face and your overall appearance. With a few dietary adjustments and a focus on consuming skin-loving nutrients, you can enjoy radiant, moisturized skin even in the harshest of winters.