Food can be a very powerful tool in fighting acne and eczema and generally keeping it young looking. Read below for tips on how to keep your skin glowing.

Oily fish such as salmon, trout and mackerel are the richest, most easily absorbed sources of omega - 3 fatty acids which can help nourish the skin. In fact in a study of 44 eczema sufferers, taking Omega 3 supplements over a 2 month period, really improved their symptoms.

Flaxseed Oil is a good source of Omega-3s for vegetarians and those who don’t eat fish. Make a salad dressing with flaxseed oil and balsamic vinegar.

Carrots are the best know source of beta carotene which the body converts to vitamin A to help maintain the skin’s barrier. Eat as a regular part of your daily diet.

Sweet potatoes also provide beta carotene and a baked sweet potato gives you around double your daily recommendation of vitamin A. The skin barrier is less effective in people with eczema, which makes Vitamin A a very important part of their diet.

Tomato puree is rich in vitamin C which will help to support the immune system and prevent the skin becoming cracked.
Spread a slice of bread with tomato puree, grated low fat cheese and a few slices of sundried tomatoes. Pop under the grill and serve with a salad for a tasty lunch.

Chickpeas are source of zinc which has a variety of skin -related functions, notably collagen formation and healing skin damage. Try using in salads or casseroles.

Apples contain a plant chemical called Quercitin which studies have shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory effects, especially for people suffering from eczema.

Orange juice provides hydration to help moisturise your skin from the inside, plus vitamin C for maintaining collagen and keeping skin resilient. Drink a glass with breakfast in the morning.

Water is essential for keeping the skin hydrated enabling new cells to form. Try to ensure that you are drinking at least 1-1/2 litres per day – more if you are exercising.

Almonds are a fantastic source of Vitamin E – a deficiency has been associated with dry skin. They are an excellent mid morning snack.

So now you can eat your way to a healthy skin.

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The brain needs lots of fuel and nutrients to get you through the day so make sure you make the right choice!

Porridge with berries and seeds is a great source of slow releasing energy to start the day.

Boiled eggs contain phospholipids for enhancing memory.

Apples and pears are also great for slow releasing energy especially if eaten with natural Bio-yogurt. They can also fuel the brain between meals if eaten with a small piece of cheese or small handful of nuts as this protein can keep blood sugar levels even.

Bananas are bursting with potassium needed for memory.

Milk is rich in protein, which boosts levels of tyrosine, the brain energising amino acid that increases alertness.
Multi grain bread contains B vitamins which are needed for concentration.

Berries are rich in super nutrients that protect the brain from pollution.

On waking you may be de-hydrated which can reduce concentration levels so have a glass of water on waking and of course keep sipping it throughout the day.

Extra lean bacon is rich in concentration boosting iron.

Kippers or mackerel in the morning are both rich in Omega 3 oils for making brain cells.

Try to avoid sugar coated breakfast cereals or white toast with jam as these cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels, followed by a short, sharp energy low. This will affect your concentration levels and your ability to focus.
Fruit juices may also contain a lot of sugar which could trigger the sugar rollercoaster and hyperactivity so dilute them with water.

So.....
A bowl of porridge made with semi skimmed milk eaten with berries and a handful of seeds, a bacon sandwich made with extra lean organic bacon on multi grain bread or a couple of boiled eggs with a slice of multi grain bread could be just what your body ordered!!!

Wash it all down with a glass of water or a cup of herbal tea – green or peppermint and you will be raring to go!!!

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