You know that old axiom “beauty starts from within”? Well, in the case of your skin it’s 100% true! What we eat has a direct visible effect on our skin and eating a healthful diet loaded with nutrients definitely makes the difference between a fresh, glowing complexion and a tired, unhappy one. Check out our highest recommended 10 beauty-fuel foods to have as staples in your kitchen, all vegan, of course! 

Lemon

Here at Amelia Nour, we're so obsessed with lemon. Lemon is incredible for skin, not only because it’s packed with vitamin C, but it’s also one of the most alkalising foods available. Although lemons taste acidic, once metabolised, their mineral properties help to alkalise the blood and balance our bodies’ pH (which in most bodies is too acidic, due to over consumption of things like coffee, alcohol, and processed foods). 

Pomegranate 

Unrivalled by others, pomegranate thwarts ageing. Pomegranate arils (the seeds inside) are rich in vitamin C and also contain vitamins A, E, B1, B2, B6 and B9, plus, minerals such as potassium, calcium and magnesium, and, trace elements of manganese, copper and zinc.The bejewelled seeds within are loaded with medicinal properties and being rich in antioxidants, pomegranates help to neutralise the effect of free radicals (which are one of the dreaded culprits of damaged skin and ageing). Don't only consume pomegranate regularly, but also look out for it as an ingredient in your beauty products as the anti-ageing plant compounds in the fruit also help in stimulating keratinocyte cells (skin cells), helping with cellular regeneration and keeping wrinkles and sagging skin at bay. It has also been said that the polyphenols in pomegranate are powerful antioxidants that help protect skin cells from oxidative damage (i.e. sun damage). 

Kale 

Kale, (and in fact a host of it's dark green leafy companions like spinach, arugula and chard) is a powerful source of antioxidants, vitamins, polyphenols and flavonoids. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage, preventing chronic disease, cognitive decline, and signs of ageing like wrinkles. Kale is also incredibly high in Vitamin C, a deficiency in which can cause rapidly increasing signs and conditions of aging - This important anti-aging nutrient (alongside a heap of others!) exists in abundance in kale, Note: kale is heat sensitive, so lightly steam or carefully blanch your lovely curly green to preserve it's magical powers.

Avocado 

Avocados are famously fabulous for skin; high in poly- and monounsaturated fatty acids, they keep skin looking firm and dewy, help regenerate damaged skin cells, and reduce redness and irritation. The omega 9 content in avocados, in particular, keeps your epidural layer (the top layer of skin) moisturised, which noticeably helps your rock healthy-looking skin. Avocados are also full of antioxidant carotenoids that not only fight free radicals, but also help your skin maintain water content and elasticity.

Sweet Potatoe

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious (and versatile to cook!), but are also insanely nutritious. Orange sweet potatoes are chock-full of an antioxidant called beta-carotene - This compound is what gives traditional sweet potatoes their signature orange hue. When your body processes beta-carotene, it turns it into an active form of vitamin A, which is imperative for cell production and growth; being fabulous for the complexion. Not only do food sources of beta-carotene literally give your skin a natural glow, but research shows that they help protect skin from the sun's damaging UV rays. 

And what about going organic? Click here to find out more.