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Eating healthily may well do more for your skin than expensive treatments. New research shows that diet is your most important weapon in the fight to keep skin young. A study of over 4,000 women showed that poor diet and premature ageing are inextricably linked. Women with higher intakes of vitamin C and omega-6 fatty acids who ate fewer carbohydrates and fats were found by researchers to have healthier looking, more youthful skin than their less healthy counterparts. So look no further than your kitchen for healthy, beautiful skin.

Kiwis

One kiwi has 76 mg of vitamin C – more vitamin C than just about any other fruit. Vitamin C destroys free radicals, a major cause of skin damage. We’re exposed to free radicals every day from pollution, cigarette smoke, and even fried food, so upping your intake of vitamin C is a very good idea. Vitamin C also helps the skin produce collagen, a protein that keeps the skin supple. Try eating two kiwis a day to keep skin young, and go organic if possible.

Flaxseed oil

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Flaxseed oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help smooth out the skin and reduce dry flakes. These fatty acids help to reduce inflammation and also help your body produce flexible skin cells that are moist and supple. You can buy flaxseed oil at a health shop, or buy the seeds and put them in a grinder for easy sprinkling over food.

Berries

Berries, especially strawberries, raspberries and cranberries, are a great source of ellagic acid, which helps protect the skin against sun damage. Besides causing skin cancer, UV rays can also cause fine lines and age spots. Ellagic acid blocks the skin from producing enzymes that destroy collagen after sun exposure.

Of course, there are also many more ways to keep your skin looking young and radiant.

Tags: eating healthy, skin care, UV rays, vitamin C