You Are What You Eat

Ten Foods for Internal and External Beauty

Edited by Jennifer L. Price

The adage, "You are what you eat", certainly rings true in a generation that is bombarded with fast food, frozen entrees and packaged food used for weight loss. Most Americans are too busy to prepare home cooked meals and opt for convenience over nutrition. Not only does this affect your internal health, it affects the largest organ in your body-the skin. What you consume reveals itself in the quality and integrity of your skin.

During the summer months, your skin is noticeable more than ever, as this is the time of year when you are probably wearing less clothing. What steps can you institute right now to improve the quality of your skin? To begin with, change your diet.

TOP TEN FOODS FOR INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL BEAUTY

1. Organic Eggs- Eggs are a great source of complete protein and Mother Nature's perfect food. Eggs are rich in vitamin E, vitamin A and choline, a nutrient this is important for the brain and nervous system. Avoid scrambled eggs as scrambling oxidizes the cholesterol which can lead to an increased risk of atheriosclerosis. Dietary cholesterol like the kind you find in eggs has no impact on serum cholesterol. Dr. Walter Willett, chairmen of the department of nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health and a professor at Harvard Medical School has said, " No research has ever shown that people who eat more eggs have more heart attacks than people who eat few eggs".

2. Broccoli and other brassicas (cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts)-All these vegetables are high in sulforaphane and indole 3 carbinol, which has  been linked to prevention of cancer of the breast, uterus, prostate and cervical cancer. Also, all are low in glycemic value.

3. Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)-All berries (preferably organic) provide anti-oxidant protection and also contain ellagic acid, which is protective against cancer. All berries are low in glycemic value. Blueberries, an anti-aging superstar are the ultimate memory food as they actually help neurons in the brain communicate with one another more effectively.

4. Salmon- (Wild) A great source of high quality protein and one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids which are beneficial for your heart, brain, anti-inflammatory, circulation, memory, thought and blood sugar control.

5. Nuts (preferably raw and unroasted)-Good sources of proteins and essential fatty acids, fiber and magnesium. Consumption of nuts has demonstrated a reduction in cholesterol, and may reduce the risk of heart disease. (Almonds are at the top of my list for their relationship to lowering heart disease and preventing cancer and walnuts, which contain the highest amount of omega fats of any other nuts and they aid in brain functioning.)

6. Spinach-One of the best sources of folic acid, vitamin K, calcium and vitamin C. Very low in glycemic value. Great source of iron.

7. Extra Virgin Olive Oil-Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. Consumption of olive oil is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, heart and cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, lung cancer and some forms of dementia.

8. Kale-A superstar with it's high level of anti-oxidants and powerful cancer fighting indoles, plant compounds which have demonstrated their protective effect against breast, cervical and colon cancer. When baked, makes a perfect substitute for high carbohydrate potato chips.

9. Fish Oil-The perfect food for the skin as it is anti-inflammatory. Inflammation generally manifests itself as rosacea, acne, psoriasis or any kind of redness. It's also excellent for cardiovascular function, brain function, inflammation and redness in the eyes and supports healthy joints.

10. A Comprehensive Multiple/Mineral Vitamin Supplement-You would not purchase a home or vehicle without insurance and similarly vitamin therapy is insurance for your body. Regardless of how well you eat, it is virtually impossible to obtain all the essential nutrients the body requires for peak performance, so taking vitamins can certainly help.

The key to reverse aging of the skin through food consumption is to consume lean protein, essential fatty acids, and low glycemic carbohydrates. Sharon Parlow’s top ten list of foods for Internal and External Health is based on this concept.  Ms. Parlow is Diplomate of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Health Practitioners.  These 10 foods when consumed along with cardiovascular conditioning and strength training will transform your physique into a lean, toned, body that will make you proud to display.