The holidays are finally here! So this means you’re probably surrounded by sugar and fat-laden treats. But before you stuff your face with goodies, there are some things you need to know about holiday foods and your skin.
An excess in sugar, salt, and alcohol not only takes a toll on your waistline, but it wreaks havoc on your skin. Which foods should you enjoy in moderation, and which ones should you eat more of? Keep reading to find out more about the best and worst holiday foods for your skin.
Worst Holiday Foods For Your Skin
Egg Nog
This sweet Christmas drink combines all the ingredients that negatively impact your skin.
First, it contains saturated fats, which are known to increase inflammation. An uptick in inflammation is linked to flare-ups of skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Also, traditional egg nog contains dairy. Excessive dairy consumption is associated with increased oil production and acne breakouts. If you have acne-prone skin, it’s best to avoid this holiday drink or make a vegan alternative.
If the egg nog is spiked, this adds another ingredient that takes a toll on your skin. Alcohol acts as a diuretic and dries out your skin — making fine lines more noticeable.
Of course, no one can resist a nice glass of egg nog. So if you want to indulge in this classic holiday drink, enjoy it in moderation or sprinkle on some cinnamon. Cinnamon increases circulation and delivers nutrients to skin cells.
Sugary Desserts
You might want to think twice about piling your plate with those Christmas cookies. Foods high in sugar not only cause inflammation in your skin, but it creates a spike in blood sugar levels. Constant blood sugar spikes could aggravate skin conditions.
Additionally, too much sugar results in a process called glycation. When this happens, collagen and elastin in the skin break down. This accelerates the aging process — resulting in less firm and youthful skin.
While you won’t wreck your skin by snacking on a sugar cookie or two, going overboard with the desserts during the holidays could spell trouble.
Salty Foods
Some of the worst holiday foods for your skin are the saltiest. Yup, traditional dishes like mashed potatoes with savory gravy and mac and cheese could result in adverse reactions.
An excess in salt causes water retention and bloating. This means the bags under your eyes become even more pronounced. Also, too much sodium makes your skin look and feel parched.
If you do overindulge on those salty holiday favorites, prevent bloating by drinking water infused with cucumber and mint — we swear it works wonders!
Best Holiday Foods for Your Skin
Hot Cocoa
There’s nothing like a warm cup of cocoa. Not only is it comforting, but it delivers countless benefits to your skin. Namely, cocoa is rich in antioxidants like flavanol — which fights free radicals and prevents sun damage. This helps your skin retain its radiance and youthful appearance.
Now you have more reasons to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa! Just make sure you don’t overdo it with the sugary toppings like marshmallows and whipped cream.
Nuts
Go ahead and roast some chestnuts on an open fire this holiday season. Nuts like walnuts, brazil nuts, and chestnuts are packed with skin-healthy vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and selenium.
Also, nuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s are said to reduce redness in your skin and preserve your skin’s collagen.
Sweet Potatoes
This starchy holiday staple is great for your skin. Sweet potatoes are filled with antioxidants like beta carotene — which is known to prevent skin cell damage. The next time you’re at a holiday dinner party, don’t be afraid to load up your plate with sweet potatoes.
Ashley Austin
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AWESOME! AWESOME! AWESOME! Thank you for this educational, fun, & festive information. Not only does the company provide “food to our bodies” but also “food for thought”.