August 7-13 is National Farmer's Market Week. Why is fresh produce so important? Well, we already know fruits and veggies are good for us, for many reasons. They pack a huge nutritional punch, as well as being rich in fiber, antioxidants and phytochemicals.
What does that have to do with beauty? Well, glowing health is beauty, no matter what your shape and size! And a diet starring fresh produce is one of the clearest routes to natural radiance, which you can maximize with these tips:
Embrace bright colors
Vibrantly-colored fruits and veggies are nutritionally superior to pale-hued produce, thanks to carotenoids, which deliver the gorgeous pigments in foods like red tomatoes, orange carrots, purple cabbage, and green kale. Carotenoids are more than pretty, though. They also act as powerful antioxidants, neutralizing damaging compounds produced by everyday stress, environmental toxins, illness, and more.
Go organic
Why choose organic when buying beautifying produce? Well, some studies find that organic items are higher in vitamin C, antioxidants, calcium, iron, chromium, and magnesium than conventional fruits and veggies. And going organic protects you from chemical pesticides, herbicides, genetically-modified organisms (GMOs), and hormones. This is especially important for children, as their growing brains and bodies are far more susceptible to toxins than adults.
Green your world
While all brightly colored produce offers health and beauty benefits─and helps prevent illness, obesity, and premature aging─dark green leafy options, as well as barley and wheat grass powders, deserve special mention. These emerald-toned gems are densely concentrated with chlorophyll, the phytochemical that gives plants their vibrant green color. Chlorophyll-rich choices help alleviate an overly acid internal pH balance, improving overall wellbeing and radiance.
Luminous skin, shiny hair, and sparkling eyes suggest self-nurturing wellness and confidence. Remember, beauty is an inside job, and nothing makes you as attractive on the outside as feeding your inside with fresh, healthy, natural foods!
