Many beauty products contain anti-inflammatory compounds, omega oils and antioxidants. The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Food and Chemical Toxicology and Environmental Health Perspectives recently published the results of a study that indicates skin is able to absorb 60 percent of nutrients applied to it.

While it is important to use healthy skincare products, it is important to nourish the skin by consuming important nutrients. It is well known that drinking sufficient quantities of water helps to maintain radiant and healthy skin. However, several foods will help rejuvenate and repair skin. Along with proper diet and exercise, these foods will provide age-defying nutrients for lasting beauty.

Age-Defying Nutrients:

Omega fatty acids nourish the skin, nails and hair. The oils help cells remove waste while allowing nutrients to enter. Unfortunately, many oils lose the beneficial nutrients when heated. You will want to include foods that are rich in omega fatty acids such as salmon, flaxseed, walnuts, olives, winter squash and pumpkin seeds. You can use flaxseed or flaxseed oil in smoothies or yogurt. Whenever possible, cook with olive oil or pumpkin seed oil.

Avocados are rich in omega fatty acids and contain potassium, B-complex vitamins, folate, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E and antioxidants. Add avocados to a salad or use avocados to make a delicious dip. In addition, you can use the avocados to create a facial mask. Avocados will renew and soothe your skin from inside and out.

Raw honey contains several vitamins and minerals that support the skin. Raw honey contains vitamin D and K in addition to vitamins A, C and E. You can include raw honey in your diet by using it in recipes instead of sugar. You can spread raw honey on toast or a peanut butter sandwich. If you love to drink tea, you can use raw honey to sweeten the tea.

Antioxidant catechins are believed to inhibit or prevent cancer. Both chocolate and green tea contains these beneficial catechins. Dark chocolate contains the most anti-aging nutrients. You want to choose a dark chocolate with a 60 percent or higher content of cocoa. When choosing green tea, you want to choose brand that offers a minimally processed tea.

Incorporate these age-defying foods in your diet and you will protect and rejuvenate your skin.