5 Foods That Promote Feminine Health

Your intake, meaning the food you eat, plays a huge part in your general health and the health of your skin. At Seacoast Dermatology, we specialize in helping women maintain healthy, beautiful, smooth skin. Following are five foods that when eaten regularly help keep you and your skin healthy. 

Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids 

Salmon is a tasty fish containing omega-3 fatty acids, or “good fats” that have many health benefits. 

Omega-3s are not only known as heart healthy fats; they promote skin health, too. These fatty acids lessen the inflammation that causes acne flare-ups and red skin. They even help protect against the sun’s UV rays, but you shouldn’t stop wearing sunscreen. 

Salmon, mackerel and other fatty fish also provide zinc, the mineral that helps stimulate the growth of new skin cells and is necessary for healthy skin, as well as vitamin E, an important antioxidant for your skin. 

Studies have found that eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids helps protect against endometriosis, a painful condition that can affect your fertility, and omega-3s decrease vaginal dryness once you reach menopause. If you don’t care for fish, sprinkle some flaxseed on your yogurt or oatmeal. 

Avocados 

Avocados are a super food for skin health. They’re full of monounsaturated, or “good fats,” in contrast to saturated fat. These good fats help keep your skin moist and hydrated. Who wants dull, dry skin? 

Monounsaturated fats are also good for your overall health. They can help lower your cholesterol level and the risk of heart disease and diabetes. 

Avocados are another great source of vitamin E, which helps protect your skin from wrinkles and other sun damage. In addition to the facial serum or cream you use, they’re a natural moisturizer. 

Walnuts 

You’ve heard that nuts are a good source of protein, but eating walnuts is also great for your skin. They’re higher in omega-3 fatty acids than other commonly eaten nuts. 

Walnuts also contain plant compounds called polyphenols. Research on plant compounds finds that they can help guard against skin aging and skin diseases. 

Walnuts also provide minerals that stimulate new collagen, one of the critical proteins your skin needs to stay healthy. 

Red and green vegetables

There's a good reason experts say “eat your veggies.” They contain important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that keep your skin looking radiant. Tomatoes are full of lycopene, an antioxidant that helps combat free radicals and sun damage. 

Dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and arugula also fight free radicals, chemicals that cause cell damage and destroy collagen. 

Sweet potatoes 

Sweet potatoes have surprising benefits for women. They’re good for your skin because they act as nature’s sunblock, helping to prevent dry skin and wrinkles. The beta carotene in sweet potatoes and carrots acts as an antioxidant, helping to keep your skin supple. 

To request an appointment with our medical professionals, give us a call or use our online booking system. Seacoast Dermatology has offices in Portsmouth, Dover, and Exeter, New Hampshire.