1. Eat Lots of Fruits and Vegetables Because They Have Tons of Antioxidants

Antioxidants fight free radical damage, which helps prevent all sorts of issues, including skin cancer and the signs of aging. Fruits and vegetables contain a whole ton of antioxidants, giving you just one more reason to add them to your meal plan. Any fruit or vegetable will do, but the deep, dark colored ones generally contain more. Try blueberries, cantaloupe and cherries. Yum!

2. Protein is Important for Clear, Healthy Skin Any Day of the Week

Most Americans don’t have to worry that they aren’t getting enough protein. It’s uncommon to have a deficiency in protein. However, some people can do with adding some extra protein to their meal plan. Proteins contain amino acids that support healthy and glowing skin. Eat more lean meats, fish, beans and eggs to up your intake.

3. Quit Trying All Those Fad Diets

Fad diets come and go and some have pros, but they mostly have cons. Restrictive diets are no good for your skin. You need to choose the right diet if you want to stay healthy, lose weight and keep your skin looking and feeling great. Experts recommend Mediterranean and Asian diets because they focus on whole, fresh ingredients.

4. Slow down on the Carbs – They Wreak Havoc on Skin

Your body needs some carbs because they provide fuel for your everyday tasks, but you don’t want to overdo it. The blood sugar spike you get from some types of carbs messes with the firmness of your skin, which can lead to wrinkles and fine lines. Complex carbs like those in whole wheat bread, popcorn and oatmeal are good options. Brownies, soda and white bread are not.

5. Drink Some Tea or Coffee Right Now!

Tea and coffee are full of antioxidants and make a great alternative to your usual Diet Coke or Red Bull. Like I said before, antioxidants are important for warding off serious signs of skin damage. Sip some green tea or coffee and you have a fat-free and virtually calorie-free beverage. If caffeine interferes with sleep, stop drinking it at lunchtime.

6. Add Nuts to Your Meals and Snacks

Nuts are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, making them a prime choice for supporting the health of your skin. Any kind of nuts will do, including cashews, almonds, pecans and walnuts. Eat them by the handful for a snack or add them to pancakes, quick breads, oatmeal or salads. Yum!

7. Opt for Low-Fat Dairy over the Full Fat Versions

You need some dairy (unless your lactose intolerant or allergic), but you want to go for the low-fat versions, which control your saturated fat intake, while also giving you some protein and vitamin D, both of which are vital for healthy skin. Go for low-fat cheese, milk and yogurt and you’ll be good to go.

What do you eat for healthy skin? Will you be making any of these changes?