There are many fruits and vegetables that can boost your immune system and fight strains of bacteria that cause acne flare-ups. However, it is important to stick to organic foods if you hope to benefit the most from their powerful vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and more. Most non-organic produce is grown in nutrient-depleted soil that has been over-treated with pesticides and nitrate fertilisers. On average, many fruits and vegetables from organic supermarkets contain at least 20 percent more nutrients than their non-organic counterparts.
These six power-foods can help fight and prevent acne flare-ups:
Organic Tomatoes
The lycopene in tomatoes encourages healthy skin circulation and collagen production, which aids in keeping your skin clear. Also, the vitamin C in tomatoes stimulates your immune system, helping to heal acne and reduce scarring.
Organic Watercress
Watercress is a very powerful body cleanser because it flushes out toxins and kills acne-inducing bacteria. The vitamin C in watercress boosts your immune system, so crushing watercress leaves and rubbing them on existing blemishes will help them heal faster.
Organic Garlic
Garlic is chock full of the antioxidant, selenium. When you add garlic to your meals on a regular basis, it reduces inflammation and keeps your skin supple. Garlic also clears you skin by fighting the viruses and bacteria that cause acne.
Organic Red Grapes
Red grapes and other dark berries and cherries are loaded with acne-fighting antioxidants. Antioxidants fight the free radicals in your body that cause breakouts. Make sure you eat the skin of the grapes because that is where most of the antioxidants, like resveratrol, are located in the fruit.
Organic Artichokes
Artichokes contain high levels of magnesium which can help level-out your hormone-related acne. The antioxidants in artichokes fight acne and promote clear, smooth skin, as well. You can eat them or use dried artichokes in tea to gain the acne-treating benefits of this vegetable.
Organic Lemons
Lemon juice has a great deal of acne-fighting vitamin C, but that’s not all. The L-asorbic acid in lemons is a natural astringent that dries up pimples and fights the bacteria that causes breakouts. When you rub lemon juice on your existing pimples and scars, it can help them heal faster. Eating lemons will certainly help, too.
Just remember to stick with organic fruits and veggies to gain the most acne-destroying benefits. Make them a regular part of your diet and your skin will thank you in no time!