Eight lesser-known superfoods you need to eat for radiant, healthy skin

We all know the importance of getting in our daily dose of superfoods like kale, broccoli, and berries. However, eating a diet full of variety is just as important for providing your body and skin with vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients!

What we eat has a direct impact on our complexion, and can make the difference between dull skin, breakouts and sensitivity, or radiant, youthful and clear skin.

Below I have outlined 8 lesser-known superfoods you should be adding to your diet to achieve a radiant and healthy complexion from within.

1.   Hibiscus

Hibiscus is often touted as the “natural botox plant”. When applied topically, it has a wonderful ability to firm the skin by maintaining skin elastin and reducing the activity of elastase, which breaks down our collagen. We use it in our skin care products, in our No.4 Vanilla Silk Lotion, however, love to ingest it as well!

When taken internally, the plant's abundance of antioxidants act as a weapon against oxidative damage (which attacks cells and causes wrinkles). It can aid in keeping your skin healthy and dewy! Hibiscus has a delicious tart-berry flavour, and can be found in our No.2 Fountain of Youth Tea and Native Collagen Powder.

2.   Prickly Pear

Prickly Pear cactus (also known as nopal cactus) is known for its unique antioxidant profile. It contains the flavonoids kaempferol and quercetin which have been studied for their ability to promote wound healing and even support healthy glucose and cholesterol levels. The extract found in our Beauty Dew – Hair, Skin & Nail Support, has been combined with Black Rice to protect hair and skin cells and reduce hormone imbalances which can cause hair loss and acne.

3.   Broccoli Sprouts

Sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrients. They grow from broccoli plants when they are about three days old and are even more nutritious than broccoli itself! All cruciferous vegetables contain a substance called sulforaphane, but in broccoli sprouts, they are about 10 to 100 times more abundant than most cruciferous vegetables. Sulforaphane supports the detoxification process and supports the liver in the clearance of toxins and hormones which may be disrupting your skin’s balance.

In addition to these skin-boosting benefits, they have also been researched to prevent the DNA damage linked to cancer and reduce inflammation, a factor in neurogenerative diseases. You will find Broccoli Sprouts in our Gut Replenish Powder. They have a spicy, crunchy flavour and are easy to pop into your salads and sandwiches or snack on them as an alternative to your trail mix.

4.   Globe Artichoke

Globe Artichokes have been used naturopathically to address liver ailments and poor digestion along with irritable bowel. They are rich in fibre, making you feel full for longer and can also work as a prebiotic, encouraging healthy gut flora. We use the extract of the leaves in our Beauty Detox Shot – Liver Support formula to promote liver clearance of toxins and help to improve digestive symptoms including IBS.

5.   Green Banana Powder

Green Banana Powder is a resistant starch that passes through the small intestine intact. This helps to manage your hunger levels, promote stable blood sugar levels and feed the good guys in your gut - all of which promote clear and radiant skin! You can easily bake with Green Banana Powder and can find it in our Gut Replenish Powder.

6.   Grape Seeds

Grape seeds are abundant in a fancy antioxidant known as oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes. These complexes have been shown to reduce oxidative stress linked to sun damage and skin tumours. Grape Seeds also assist in balancing your gut bacteria by attacking 'Candida albicans' - a yeast that can lead to gut dysbiosis and thrush, making the skin red, itchy and sensitive. You will find Grape Seeds in our Gut Replenish Powder.

7.   Acerola 

Acerola is a fruit similar to the cherry with a deep red colour. It is an abundant source of Vitamin C and antioxidants. It supports healthy collagen production and boosts skin firmness and elasticity.

Acerola also contains beauty-boosting B Vitamins and minerals such as iron, phosphorous, and calcium. Plus, flavonoids to protect your skin from free radical damage. You will find it in our Beauty Dew – Hair, Skin, Nail Support elixir.

8.   Dandelion Root

Dandelion root is a wonder herb when it comes to liver health. It has a bitter flavour which makes it fantastic for activating liver enzymes and encouraging the flow of bile. Some studies show it also has the potential to reduce skin irritation and inflammation whilst also improving skin hydrating. Dandelion Root can easily be enjoyed as a tea and you will find it in our No.1 Green Goddess Detox Tea.