The festive season is upon us and it's that time of the year that we all come together with our loved ones and indulge in all our favourite foods!
We're definitely not here to tell you what you can and can't eat - instead we're wanting to share our favourite gut loving foods that you can incorporate into your festive meals to keep your skin glowing! It's all about balance!
A Few Of Our Favourites:
Avocados – These nutrient-dense fruits keep your gut and skin healthy, thanks to their high glutathione content which specifically blocks the intestinal absorption of certain fats, which cause oxidative damage. Avocados also contain higher levels of vitamin E, folate, and beta-carotene than any other fruit, which boosts their skin healing properties.
Blueberries – Blueberries have some of the highest levels of antioxidants, especially antho-cyanin, which means that this berry has been linked to a wide range of health benefits including sharper cognition, better focus, and a clearer mind. Additionally, blueberries are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber that support healthy, glowing skin.
Dark Chocolate – Studies have shown that eating chocolate can actually make you happier! Dark chocolate in particular is best for you as part of a healthy balanced diet, as it contains more flavonols and polyphenols, two hugely important antioxidants that can protect against uv damage, improve blood flow and increase hydration in the skin.
Grass Fed Beef – Grass fed beef has a huge range of antioxidants, including beta-carotene, Vitamins C and Vitamin E, which are great for supporting your gut and skin health. It’s also lower in fat than grain fed beef whilst being higher in omega-3.
Walnuts – If you’re looking for a healthy snacking option which are loaded with antioxidants, then walnuts are a great choice for your gut health. There is no denying the sweet, pleasant flavour of walnuts and they can be a tasty snack in between meals or as part of a desert.
Green Leafy Vegetables – Leafy greens are full of nutrients and antioxidants which help fight off disease and leave your body feeling healthier and more energised. Dark leafy greens, for example spinach, are especially good for you since they are rich in folate, which helps your body to produce more mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which is a ‘feel-good’ chemical. Additionally, they are loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radical damage and increase hydration in the skin.
Fermented Foods – Last but not least, eating fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi and certain types of yogurt can help keep your gut healthy, which in turn will help to improve your skin health. The beneficial bacteria which are found in fermented foods have a direct effect on your brain chemistry and transmit positive mood and behaviour regulating signals to your brain via the vagus nerve. Additionally, they provide nutrients to the body, reducing inflammation and supporting skin health.
We hope this list has given you some inspiration and ideas to add to your festive meals this holiday season!
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from all of us here at Vayda Organics xx
*Blog Image via pinterest.
