Eat, Drink, Glow ~ Orange for Your Beauty

Fall has taken out her artist brush again and is slowly transforming nature before our eyes. Cheerful orange splashes are popping up everywhere, from glorious chrysanthemum blooms and unexpected orange splashes popping up on tree tops, to round happy pumpkins brightening doorsteps and patches.  

    It is not by chance nature is abundant in orange gifts for us this time of year. Oranges, peaches, pumpkins, yams, carrots, mangos, cantaloupes, sweet potatoes all boast attention-getting orange hues. The presence of the color orange in fruits and vegetables is a sure sign they are rich in Vitamin C and Carotenoids (including Beta Carotene,) which converts to vitamin A in the body. Both of these vitamins are a welcome preparation for the colder months ahead, and not just for your body – if consumed regularly, they are one of the best  ( and yummiest) beauty booster you can get.

    So how do Vitamins C and A help our skin and health?  

    Vitamin C is an essential vitamin paramount to several skin functions. Vitamin C is required for collagen production. Collagen is vital for strengthening skin, and benefits elasticity and hydration. As we age, your body produces less collagen, leading to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles.  

    Vitamin A prevents sun damage by interrupting the process that breaks down collagen. Vitamin A normalizes oil production improving the appearance of acne. Both the upper and lower layers of skin need vitamin A. It prevents breakouts, evens out pigmentation and restores skin’s elasticity by boosting collagen production. Vitamins C and A are synergistic and work together to enhance each other’s rejuvenation capabilities.

   Below you can find a few delicious orange foods you can indulge in with guiltless pleasure ~ they will enhance your beauty and boost your health and metabolism at the same time.

    ~ Pumpkins

    This phenomenal health and beauty hero is packed with nutrients  – beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, and folate all strengthen your immune system. More pumpkin in your diet means stronger immune system, fighting better to ward off germs and speed healing when you get a wound. Pumpkin’s nutrient density and low calorie count may promote weight loss.

    When applied topically, pumpkins help to brighten complexion and reduce fine lines. They contain fruit enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids which exfoliate the skin and have a rejuvenating effect. Pumpkins increase the production of collagen, improve skin’s tone and elasticity, combat redness and assist in treating acne.

    ~ Mangos

    It’s already easy to eat mangos since they’re so tasty, but did you know that they also hold skin-loving benefits? Mangos contain carotenoids and vitamin C, which have been shown to reduce wrinkles, improve skin hydration, and produce collagen to help keep skin healthy. Vitamin C is important to assure your skin is strong and can combat wounds. However, there is a catch – pay close attention to the amount that you consume. A study showed a ½ cup portion of mango consumed four times per week offered a reduction in wrinkles but consuming a higher amount of mango increased wrinkles.

   ~ Carrots

    Carrots are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients that can be your short-cut to better skin and healthy body. A chock full of goodness, these veggies are most well known for having a high amount of vitamin A, which is a strong factor for helping to keep your eyes healthy.

    But carrots do more than promote eye health. They’re also useful for keeping a healthy skin complexion. This is because the same vitamin A that promotes good eye health is also useful for repairing skin tissue. It also helps protect against the harmful rays of the sun. Carrots abound in beta-carotene, which contains additional nutritious minerals and antioxidants. Carrots, while good for eye health, also help promote a healthy digestive system and strong teeth.

    ~ Oranges

    Oranges are extremely rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, folate, potassium, calcium and dietary fiber. Oranges have incredible anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties that could boost immunity and may aid weight loss. They offer amazing benefits to your health in various ways. Studies suggest consuming fresh oranges could help in the treatment of chronic diseases.

    When applied topically, oranges even out your skin tone. They support the production of Collagen and make your skin firmer and more tout. Another benefit of oranges is that they contain Citric Acid. Because of their acidic properties, they gently unclog blocked pores, remove the debris from your face and brighten your skin. Oranges are great if you are suffering from a hormonal complexion, acne or a sudden breakout.