Bajra In Winter, Ragi In Summer: Are You Eating The Right Roti For The Season?

In India, roti is far more than a meal staple, it is woven into everyday life. From breakfast to dinner, it appears on almost every plate. Yet, few people pause to consider whether the same roti suits every season. Our bodies respond differently to heat and cold, and their nutritional needs change accordingly. Winter calls for warmth and strength, while summer demands lighter, cooling foods.

Celebrity chef and culinary expert Pankaj Bhadouria highlights that selecting grains according to the season can naturally support better health. This wisdom isn’t new; older generations followed it instinctively, rotating grains through the year to nourish the body appropriately.

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Today, this age-old practice is being reaffirmed through nutrition science and Ayurveda. Here’s a simple seasonal guide to choosing the right roti for your body.

Bajra Roti: A Winter Powerhouse

Bajra roti is a winter favourite for good reason. It generates internal warmth, making it ideal for cold weather. Rich in iron, fibre, and magnesium, it helps combat anaemia, reduce fatigue, and ease joint stiffness common in winter.

Thick bajra rotis topped with ghee provide sustained energy and pair beautifully with mustard greens, garlic chutney, or yoghurt.

Jowar Roti: Suitable For All Seasons

Jowar roti works well in both summer and winter. In colder months, it offers steady strength without heaviness, while in summer it remains light and easy on digestion. Its high fibre content aids bowel health and prevents constipation.

Jowar does not increase body heat and even has a mild cooling effect. Kneading it with warm water helps achieve softer, tastier rotis.

Makki Roti: Winter Energy Booster

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Makki roti is synonymous with winter meals. Packed with energy, it helps the body withstand cold temperatures. Corn carbohydrates digest slowly, keeping hunger at bay for longer; ideal when the body requires extra calories in winter.

Enjoyed with butter, mustard greens, or potato curry, it offers both comfort and nutrition.

Ragi Roti: Summer’s Cooling Choice

Ragi roti is especially beneficial during summer. Known for its cooling properties, ragi helps regulate body temperature and reduces acidity. Its high calcium content strengthens bones, while its nutrients combat weakness caused by excessive sweating.

Thin ragi rotis or ragi dosa served with yoghurt feel light, refreshing, and nourishing.

Barley Roti: Light And Detoxifying

Barley roti is another excellent option for summer. It helps draw out excess heat from the body and supports digestive health. The fibre in barley improves gut function, reduces bloating, and can be helpful for those experiencing frequent thirst or urinary discomfort during hot months.

Lightly roasted barley rotis are the best choice.

Wheat Roti: The All-Season Staple

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Wheat roti remains the most common choice in Indian homes and suits all seasons. It is neutral in nature, neither heating nor cooling, and provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates and protein for daily needs.

For those without specific health concerns, wheat roti is a reliable, year-round option.

  

  

Aparajita Tea: This Blue Flower Drink Is Great For Your Memory And Skin

 

Aparajita, or Butterfly Pea flower tea, offers numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it helps reduce stress, enhance memory and concentration, and support overall brain and mental health. It also aids digestion, cools the stomach, and detoxifies the body. (Local18)

Benefits for Skin, Hair, and Immunity: Butterfly pea tea strengthens skin and hair, promotes a healthy glow, and reduces wrinkles and dandruff. It also boosts immunity thanks to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping remove toxins, relieve stress, and improve metabolic function. (Local18)

Mental Health and Cognitive Support: According to Dr Geetika Sharma, tea made from butterfly pea flowers is particularly beneficial for mental well-being. It reduces anxiety and mental fatigue, improves concentration, boosts memory, and protects brain cells with its neuroprotective properties.

Digestive Health and Detoxification: Aparajita tea promotes a healthy digestive system. It cools the stomach, alleviates acidity and gas, cleans the intestines, boosts metabolism, and detoxifies the body. Regular consumption supports a stronger and healthier digestive system while also reducing stress-related digestive issues. (Local18)

Blood Sugar, Cholesterol, and Heart Health: This tea helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Its anti-diabetic properties support heart health and maintain metabolic balance, making it an ideal drink for overall cardiovascular wellness. (Local18)

Eye Health And Vision Support: The anthocyanins in butterfly pea tea enhance blood circulation to the eyes, improving vision and reducing eye fatigue and irritation. (Local18)

How to Prepare Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: To prepare, boil fresh butterfly pea flowers in water, strain the mixture, and optionally add lemon and honey for a refreshing and health-boosting drink.

Want Protein Without Eggs? 5 Vegetarian Superfoods That Build Strength Naturally

 

At a time when gym culture and protein supplements dominate health discussions, nutritionists are reminding people that natural, plant-based foods can be equally effective in building strength. Contrary to the popular belief that muscle power lies only in eggs, meat and fish, experts say several vegetarian foods offer "bumper" protein along with essential minerals and vitamins. (News18 Gujarati)

Dietitian Mamta Pandey told Local 18 that vegetarian protein sources are often underestimated. "Paneer, legumes, seeds and nuts not only provide protein but also help improve digestion, immunity and energy levels," she said, adding that these foods are easily available and free from the side effects linked to artificial supplements. (News18 Gujarati)

Paneer: One of the most convenient and widely consumed protein-rich foods, paneer contains nearly 13 grams of protein per 100 grams, more than double what a single egg provides. It also aids in weight gain and strengthens muscles and bones. (News18 Gujarati)

Pumpkin Seeds: Small in size but mighty in nutrition, pumpkin seeds carry around 9 grams of protein in just 28 grams. Rich in magnesium, zinc and phosphorus, these seeds promote heart health and improve immunity. (News18 Gujarati)

Rajma (Kidney Beans): Popular in Indian kitchens, rajma is as nutritious as it is delicious. Half a cup of cooked rajma provides 8 grams of protein, in addition to dietary fibre that regulates blood sugar and keeps one full for longer. (News18 Gujarati)

Chickpeas (Chhole/Desi Chana): Half a cup of chickpeas offers about 8 grams of protein, along with iron, phosphorus and folate. Nutritionists recommend it as an energy booster that also helps reduce fatigue. (News18 Gujarati)

Peanuts: Often dubbed the "poor man's nuts", peanuts are rich in both protein and healthy fats. A 100-gram serving contains about 25 grams of protein, alongside vitamin E that enhances immunity. (News18 Gujarati)

Health experts say these five superfoods are easy to incorporate into daily meals, from salads and snacks to gravies and desserts. Affordable and accessible, they can serve as natural alternatives to animal protein and costly supplements. (News18 Gujarati)

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on general sources. Readers are advised to consult a qualified dietitian or medical professional before making significant dietary changes.)

Adrenaline, Cortisol And Heart: Stress Hormones Redefining Cardiac Events

When the human body encounters stress—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—it responds by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, often referred to as “stress hormones." These hormones form part of our natural defense mechanism, designed to help us react swiftly in threatening situations through the classic “fight or flight" response. Adrenaline boosts heart rate and blood pressure, while cortisol elevates blood sugar levels and suppresses non-essential bodily functions to prioritize immediate survival. Dr. C. Raghu, Clinical Director & Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad shares all you need to know:

However, when stress becomes chronic, this constant hormonal surge can take a serious toll on heart health. Persistently high cortisol levels can lead to hypertension, elevated blood sugar, and changes in lipid metabolism, all of which contribute to atherosclerosis—the gradual buildup of plaque inside the arteries that restricts blood flow. Chronic exposure to adrenaline can also cause arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, placing additional strain on the heart muscle and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Beyond physiological effects, chronic stress often drives unhealthy behaviours such as smoking, poor diet, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity—all of which further heighten the risk of heart disease. The way individuals respond to stress can vary greatly depending on genetic predisposition and past experiences; for instance, those with a history of trauma or high-stress occupations may exhibit a heightened hormonal response even to everyday stressors, amplifying their cardiac risk.

mportantly, symptoms like chest discomfort, a racing heartbeat, or shortness of breath—especially when new or persistent—should never be brushed off as “just stress." They warrant prompt medical evaluation to rule out or address potential heart issues. In clinical practice, it’s common to encounter patients without previous cardiac history presenting with stress-induced symptoms that closely mimic heart disease.

Managing chronic stress is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of protecting heart health. While stress hormones may not be as visible a risk factor as smoking or hypertension, their impact is profound. Incorporating regular exercise, mindfulness practices, sufficient sleep, and seeking timely medical care can make a significant difference in safeguarding the heart.

World Liver Day 2025: Theme, History, Significance And Tips For A Healthy Liver

 World Liver Day 2025: World Liver Day is observed every year on April 19. It aims to raise global awareness about liver-related diseases and promote better liver health. As the second largest organ in the human body, the liver plays a key role in various essential functions. It helps metabolism, digestion, filtration of toxins, immunity regulation, and nutrient storage.

Remarkably, the liver has the ability to regenerate itself even after sustaining significant damage. However, any dysfunction in this crucial organ can lead to severe health complications.

World Liver Day History

World Liver Day was established in 2010 by the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL). The date, April 19, was chosen to honour EASL’s founding in 1966.

World Liver Day Significance

This global health initiative emphasises the need for greater awareness about liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver cancer—many of which remain underdiagnosed.

The day promotes preventive measures like vaccination, balanced nutrition, and safe hygiene practices. It also stresses the importance of early screening, which can significantly improve health outcomes.

Beyond prevention and awareness, the day extends support to those living with liver conditions. It works to eliminate stigma, and advocates for better access to treatment and healthcare policies.

Ultimately, it encourages communities, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to prioritise liver health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being.

Tips For Maintaining Liver Health

1. Follow a balanced diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reduce the intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats, which can contribute to fatty liver disease and other complications.
2. Stay hydrated: Drinking sufficient water daily supports the liver’s natural detoxification process and helps it function efficiently.
3. Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can severely damage liver cells and lead to conditions like fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. It’s essential to consume alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether.
4. Limit or avoid smoking: Smoking introduces harmful toxins into the body that can negatively affect liver function and increase the risk of liver cancer. Reducing or quitting smoking significantly contributes to better overall liver health.
5. Get vaccinated against hepatitis: Vaccines for hepatitis A and B are important preventive measures. They protect against viral infections that can cause chronic liver disease or liver failure.
6. Engage in regular physical activity: Routine exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces fat accumulation in the liver. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
7. Use medications responsibly: Avoid the overuse of over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal remedies without medical guidance, as they can cause liver toxicity. Always follow prescribed dosages and consult your doctor, if unsure.
8. Schedule regular health check-ups: Routine medical examinations, including liver function tests, can help detect potential liver issues early, leading to timely intervention and treatment.

World Liver Day 2025 Theme Explained

The theme for World Liver Day 2025 is “Food is Medicine." It highlights the essential role that nutrition plays in preserving liver health. It draws attention to how a balanced, whole-food-based diet can support overall liver function. The theme also stresses that mindful eating habits can help reduce the risk of metabolic complications.

Drinking Water From Plastic Bottles Left In Car During Summer Is Harmful, Here’s Why

Leaving a water bottle in the car is nothing new to any of us. How horrible can it be, after all, since it is just water? However, things begin to change when that bottle is exposed to heat, particularly in the summer. If the bottle isn’t BPA-free, the chemicals from the plastic may seep into the water due to the rising temperature. Even the quality and taste of the water might change over time. Perhaps it’s not as safe as you believe.

It is important to note that BPA-free labelling indicates a product is free from Bisphenol-A, a chemical potentially linked to various health concerns.

Here are some reasons why it might not be the best idea to drink water that has been left in a hot vehicle.

According to research that was published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, drinking water from a plastic bottle that has been exposed to heat for an extended period of time may cause dangerous compounds to be released.

Trillions of nanoparticles per litre are released into the water when plastic objects come into contact with hot water, according to another study published in Environmental Science and Technology. These substances can seriously harm one’s health and disrupt hormonal balance if used in excess.

Another problem is the spread of bacteria. Your saliva puts bacteria into the bottle if you have previously taken a sip. A warm environment encourages the growth of bacteria, making the bottle a haven for germs.

Digestion problems and stomach pain could result from drinking water from such a bottle. Although drinking such water once might not have any negative effects right away, doing so on a frequent basis could have long-term health consequences.

Now that we are aware that it is not advisable to consume bottled water that has been left in a hot car, let’s take a look at some strategies for maintaining adequate hydration throughout the day.

1. Avoid Waiting Until You’re Thirsty

When you experience thirst, you are already dehydrated. Develop the practice of drinking water regularly rather than waiting for that signal. Drinking half a glass of water every half an hour is a smart way to keep hydrated all day.

2. Keep An Insulated Bottle With You

Get a stainless steel or insulated water bottle instead of a plastic one. Even in hot weather, this will keep your water safe and cool.

3. Eat Foods High In Water

Drinking water is not the only way to stay hydrated. Including items high in water in your diet is another way to keep hydrated. Eat watermelon, cucumber, oranges, strawberries, and other fruits and vegetables to stay hydrated, acquire vital vitamins and minerals.

4. Add Something New To Your Water To Make It Refreshing

Try adding natural things to your water instead of just drinking it straight. To improve the flavour, add berries, cucumber, mint, or lemon. This not only makes drinking water more pleasurable but also motivates you to consume more of it.

Struggling With Dark Or Cracked Lips? Here's What It Reveals About Your Health

Every disease in the world is identified in different ways. Some require medical tests for diagnosis, while others can be detected by examining the tongue, pulse, or eyes. But did you know that your lips can also indicate underlying health issues? Yes, the condition and colour of your lips can provide valuable insights into your overall well-being.

Dietitian Khushboo Sharma from Diet for Delight Clinic, Noida, shares insights about what health issues lips can indicate, what causes chapped or dry lips, which vitamin deficiencies lead to lip problems, and what foods can help.

According to Sharma, many people rely on expensive medicines to treat lip-related problems, but these treatments can sometimes cause side effects. Instead, natural remedies and dietary changes can be more effective. She further explains a few lip problems and their easy solutions:

Dry Lips: According to expert, dry lips indicate dehydration. If your lips are constantly dry, increase your water intake to keep your body hydrated.

Cracked Lips: If your lips are cracking frequently, it may be due to an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency. To combat this, include walnuts in your diet.

Side Cracks in Lips: Cracks appearing at the corners of the mouth could signal a vitamin B2 deficiency. In such cases, consuming mushrooms can be beneficial.

Pale Lips: If your lips have lost their natural colour and appear pale, it might be a sign of iron deficiency. To restore iron levels, add spinach to your diet.

Dark Lips: Many people experience darkening of the lips, which could be due to excess melanin production. If you notice this, consuming amla (Indian gooseberry) may help regulate melanin levels.

Say Goodbye To Yellow Teeth With These Easy Home Remedies

 Nowadays, dietary habits and changing lifestyles contribute to various bodily effects, including the yellowing of teeth. Teeth are crucial not only for eating and drinking but also for enhancing our personality. Clean, bright teeth boost confidence. While numerous toothpastes and dental products flood the market, natural remedies offer highly effective alternatives. Here are a few natural remedies you can use at home to whiten your teeth.

Natural Remedies To Whiten Teeth:

White vinegar acts as an excellent natural cleanser, effectively removing dirt from teeth. Mix one teaspoon of white vinegar into half a glass of water and use this solution to rinse daily. Within days, the yellowing of teeth will begin to diminish.

Strawberries

Strawberries contain natural acids that enhance the shine of teeth. Mash a few strawberries and add a small amount of baking soda. Apply this paste to your teeth with a brush, rubbing gently. Use this remedy two to three times a week.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil possesses antibacterial properties that help maintain white, healthy teeth. Every morning, on an empty stomach, swirl one teaspoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10–15 minutes. Then, spit it out and rinse with lukewarm water. Visible results can be noticed within a few weeks.

Arjuna Bark

In Ayurveda, Arjuna bark is considered a natural toothpaste. Dry the bark and grind it into a fine powder. Use this powder daily as a toothpaste. It not only removes yellowing but also strengthens the gums.

Ginger and Rock Salt

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to cleaner teeth. Extract fresh ginger juice and mix in a small amount of rock salt. Rub this mixture gently on your teeth to enhance their shine within a few days.

Mustard Oil and Black Salt

This age-old remedy has been used for centuries in dental care. Mix a small amount of black salt into a teaspoon of mustard oil. Rub this mixture lightly on your teeth using a finger or a brush. Regular use will gradually reduce yellowing.

These simple, effective home remedies offer a cost-effective way to achieve brighter teeth without relying on expensive products.

Boost Your Collagen: Tips To Reduce Wrinkles And Joint Pain

 

Are wrinkles increasing in your skin or are you feeling pain in the joints? The reason for this may be a lack of collagen. Collagen is an essential protein in our body, which gives strength and flexibility to the skin, bones and joints. With ageing, its quantity starts decreasing, due to which the skin becomes loose and the joints start getting weak. However, with the right diet and some important measures, you can overcome the deficiency of collagen. Know the ways to increase collagen, benefits and important tips, which will keep you young and fit for a long time.

What Is collagen?

Collagen is made up of amino acids, which mainly contain proline, glycine and hydroxyproline. The body also needs vitamin C, zinc, copper and manganese to make it. If we talk about its function, it helps in creating new skin cells. It helps in removing dead skin cells, giving flexibility and strength to the skin, strengthening joints and bones, preventing blood clotting and protecting internal organs.

Types Of Collagen

According to Clevelandclinic, 28 types of collagen have been identified so far, of which the main five types are these: The first type, which makes up 90% of the collagen in the body, provides structure to the skin, bones, tendons and ligaments. The second type is found in elastic cartilage, which keeps the joints strong. The third type is found in muscles, arteries and organs, while the fourth type is present in the layers of the skin. The fifth type is found in the cornea of the eyes, hair, some layers of skin and the tissues of the placenta.

Decrease In collagen With Age

As age increases, collagen production in the body starts decreasing. In women, collagen production decreases rapidly after menopause. Its level decreases significantly after the age of 60.

Symptoms Of Collagen Deficiency

• Wrinkles Looseness and dryness in the skin
• Hollowness around the eyes and face
• Muscle weakness and pain
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Digestive system problems
• Obstruction in blood flow

Habits That Damage Collagen

• Smoking reduces collagen production and the skin starts looking old quickly.
• Excessive sugar and processed carbs make collagen weak and brittle.
• Sun rays slow down collagen production, which increases wrinkles.
• Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, damage collagen.

How To Overcome Collagen Deficiency?

Collagen, directly ingested, is not absorbed, but if the nutrients that produce collagen are included in the diet, it can have a positive effect.

Vitamin C: Orange, strawberry, capsicum, broccoli etc.

Proline: Mushroom, cabbage, peanuts, egg white, meat etc.

Glycine: Red meat, chicken, turkey, peanuts, granola etc.

Copper: Oysters, walnuts, green leafy vegetables, dark chocolate etc.

Zinc: Red meat, pulses, nuts, green vegetables, milk products etc.

Are collagen supplements Beneficial?

Some studies have found the possibility of improving skin moisture and elasticity and relieving joint pain with collagen supplements. However, it cannot be controlled where the body will use it.

Other Ways To Increase Collagen

• Apply sunscreen every day.
• Avoid smoking and eating too much sweets.
• Eat a balanced diet, which contains proteins, vitamins and minerals.
• Do yoga and exercise, which increases blood circulation.

Holistic Approaches to Healthy Skin with Nutrition Fact

 

Nutrition is important for health. An unhealthy diet can damage your metabolism, cause weight gain, and even damage organs, such as your heart and liver.

What you eat also affects another organ — your skin.

As scientists learn more about diet and the body, it’s increasingly clear that what you eat can significantly affect the health and aging of your skin.

This article takes a look at 12 of the best foods for keeping your skin healthy.

Fatty fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and herring, are excellent foods for healthy skin. They’re rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining skin health.

Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary to help keep skin thick, supple, and moisturized. In fact, an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency can cause dry skin.

The omega-3 fats in fish reduce inflammation, which can cause redness and acne. They can even make your skin less sensitiveTrusted Source to the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Some studies Trusted Source show that fish oil supplements may help fight inflammatory and autoimmune conditions affecting your skin, such as psoriasis and lupus.

Fatty fish is also a source of vitamin E, one of the most important antioxidants for your skin. Getting enough vitamin E is essential for helping protect your skin against damage from free radicals and inflammation.

Avocados

Avocados are high in healthy fats. These fats benefit many functions in your body, including the health of your skin.

A 2022 pilot study
Trusted Source involved healthy women consuming one avocado daily for 8 weeks. The researchers found that daily avocado consumption may may lead to enhanced elasticity and firmness of facial skin.

Avocados are also a good source of vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that helps protect your skin from oxidative damage. Most Americans don’t get enough vitamin E through their diet.

Vitamin C is also essential for healthy skin. Your skin needs it to create collagen, which is the main structural protein that keeps your skin strong and healthy.

Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that helps protect your skin from oxidative damage caused by the sun and the environment, which can lead to signs of aging.

Walnuts

Walnuts have many characteristics that make them an excellent food for healthy skin.

They’re a good source of essential fatty acids, which are fats that your body cannot make itself.

ALA, omega-3 fats, magnesium, and the amino acid argentine — all of which are found in walnuts — may also decrease inflammation Trusted Source in your body, including your skin.

Sunflower seeds

In general, nuts and seeds are good sources of skin-boosting nutrients.

Sunflower seeds are an excellent example. They contain high levels of both monounsaturated and
omega-6 fats, and may help reduce inflammation and cholesterol levels.

Sweet potatoes

Beta carotene is a nutrient found in plants. It functions as provitamin A, which means it can be converted into vitamin A in your body.

Beta carotene is found in oranges and vegetables such as carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes.

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source — one 1/2-cup (100-gram) serving of baked sweet potato contains enough beta carotene to provide more than six times the DV of vitamin A.

Carotenoids like beta carotene help keep your skin healthy by acting as a natural sunblock. When consumed, this antioxidant is incorporated into your skin and helps protect your skin cells from sun exposure. This may help prevent sunburn, cell death, and dry, wrinkled skin.

Red or yellow bell peppers

Like sweet potatoes, bell peppers are an excellent source of beta carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A.

One cup (149 grams) of chopped red bell pepper contains the equivalent of 156% of the DV for vitamin A.

They’re also one of the best sources of vitamin C. This vitamin is necessary for creating the protein collagen, which keeps skin firm and strong.

Broccoli

Broccoli is full of many vitamins and minerals important for skin health, including zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

It also contains lutein, a carotenoid that works like beta carotene. Lutein helps protect your skin from oxidative damage, which can cause your skin to become dry and wrinkled.

Broccoli florets also pack a special compound called sulforaphane, which boasts some impressive potential benefits. It may even have anti-cancer effects.

Sulforaphane is likewise a powerful protective agent against sun damage. It works in two ways: neutralizing harmful free radicals and switching on other protective systems in your body.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C and contain all of the major carotenoids, including lycopene.

Beta carotene, lutein, and lycopene have been shown to protect your skin against damage from the sun. They may also help prevent wrinkling.

Because tomatoes are rich in carotenoids, they’re an excellent food for maintaining healthy skin.

Consider pairing carotenoid-rich foods like tomatoes with a source of fat, such as cheese or olive oil. Fat increases your absorption of carotenoids.

Dark chocolate

If you need another reason to eat chocolate, here it is: the effects of cocoa on your skin are pretty phenomenal.

After 6–12 weeks of consuming a cocoa powder high in antioxidants each day, participants in one study experienced thicker, more hydrated skin.

Their skin was also less rough and scaly, less sensitive to sunburn, and had better blood flow — which brings more nutrients to your skin.

Another study found that eating 20 grams of high-antioxidant dark chocolate per day could allow your skin to withstand over twice as much UV radiation before burning, compared with eating low-antioxidant chocolate.

Several other studies have observed similar results, including improvements in the appearance of wrinkles. However, keep in mind that at least one study didn’t find significant effects.

Make sure to choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to maximize the benefits and keep added sugar to a minimum.

Green tea

Green tea may help protect your skin from damage and aging.

The powerful compounds found in green tea are called catechins and work to improve the health of your skin in several ways.

Like several other antioxidant-containing foods, green tea can help protect your skin against sun damage.

While green tea is a great choice for healthy skin, you may want to avoid drinking your tea with milk, as there’s evidence that milk could reduce the effect of green tea’s antioxidants.

Red grapes

Red grapes are famous for containing resveratrol, a compound that comes from the grapes’ skin.

Resveratrol is credited with a wide range of health benefits, among them is reducing the effects of aging.

Test-tube studies suggest it may also help slow the production of harmful free radicals, which damage skin cells and cause signs of aging.

This beneficial compound is also found in red wine. Unfortunately, there’s not much evidence that the amount of resveratrol you get from a glass of red wine is enough to affect your skin.

And since red wine is an alcoholic beverage, there are negative effects to drinking it in excess.

It’s not recommended to start drinking red wine just because of its potential health benefits. Instead, you should increase your intake of red grapes and berries.

The takeaway

What you eat can significantly affect your skin health.

Make sure you’re getting enough essential nutrients to protect your skin. The foods on this list are great options to keep your skin healthy, strong, and attractive.