Inner beauty boosters

I have always maintained that internal good health and external beauty are two sides of the same coin. Our diets have more to do with how we look than we realize. Smooth skin, lustrous hair, bright eyes, slim figures and vitality owe a great deal to the inner beauty boosters in our diet. Also, for make-up to work its magic, the canvas must be perfect, in terms of a clear, unblemished, glowing skin.

The skin requires an adequate amount of nutrients to maintain its good health and radiance. Good blood circulation is also essential for skin glow. The diet should provide the essential vitamins and minerals. The improper elimination of wastes leads to clogged pores and acne. Include enough fibre in the diet, if you have oily and pimple-prone skin. Cut down your intake of sugar, starch and fried foods and increase your intake of raw foods, like fresh fruits, raw salads and sprouts. Stick to whole grains and drink enough water and fresh fruit juices. Take the juice of one lemon in a glass of water first thing in the morning.

Here are some inner beauty boosters:

Many fruits, like papaya and pineapple, contain enzymes which help to protect the digestive system and discourage the retention of wastes. Citrus fruits should be had along with the pith (the white thread-like structures which surround the citrus fruits). The pith contains bioflavinoids, which strengthen the immune system and keep the skin and hair healthy.

Sprouts provide high nutrition. They contain an excellent balance of amino acids, fatty acids, natural sugars, minerals, vitamins and enzymes. When soaked in water for sprouting, the enzymes become active, stored starch is broken down into glucose and fructose and long-chain proteins are split into amino acids. The saturated fats are changed into free fatty acids. Sprouts also facilitate the elimination of wastes and help in getting rid of toxins and wastes.

Among the various minerals, selenium and zinc have received much attention in recent times, especially for skin benefits. Selenium helps to rid the body of heavy metals. Selenium is found in whole grain, cabbage, mushroom, onions and seafood. Zinc keeps the skin healthy and youthful. It is found in whole grains, lentils, beans and seeds. Grind seeds of pumpkin, cucumber, sesame (til), sunflower and add them to salads.

Walnut is said to be another beauty booster for shiny hair and smooth skin. They provide a variety of nutrients, like proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin E and antioxidants. Kiwi is an extremely rich source of Vitamins C and E. It strengthens the immune system and reduces stress. Wheatgrass juice is one of the best beauty boosters, because it is very high in nutrients, like vitamins, amino acids and enzymes. It reduces toxins and keeps the skin and hair healthy.

Fruit and vegetable juices, freshly extracted, are ideal. They not only ensure a supply of valuable nutrients, but are assimilated and absorbed by the body very easily. They also help to cleanse and purify the system.

Beauty problems that are related to bad health cannot be camouflaged with make-up. No matter how much time, money and skill you employ, fatigue, dark under-eye circles, spotty skins, dull skin and hair are bound to be apparent. Beautiful features are endowed by our genes, but poor health detracts from it. On the other hand, you may not be genetically favoured, but good health and vitality can give you a quality of attractiveness that is irresistible. You will not only look good, but feel good and that is exactly what beauty is all about.