Antioxidant Vitamins - Foods That Fight Wrinkles?

A simple diet adjustment of whole foods that are rich in antioxidant vitamins can make an enormous difference in the skin's outward reflection. Realizing which stressor(s) are negatively impacting your skin and taking action against them will help you defy the odds of premature aging of the skin and wrinkles. Several factors play a role in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles:
Sun damaged skin

Free Radicals
Genetics
Hormones
Dehydration
Cigarette smoke
Chemical exposure
Environmental toxins
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant known to support collagen production. Sun exposure dehydrates, dries your skin causing free radicals, and depletes collagen; leaving it loose, weak and wrinkled. Collagen is a protein, which provides the primary part of the infrastructure and makes up approximately 75% of the skin. Healthy levels of collagen give the appearance of a smooth, plump appearance. Ultraviolet radiation, or excessive sun exposure is the primary cause of skin damage and can lead to skin cancer.

Wrinkles result from free radical damage and antioxidant vitamins neutralize free radicals. A free radical is an unstable oxygen molecule that is missing an electron. It scavenges and robs from others in an effort to become stable. In turn, after successfully "robbing", the free radicals cause other molecules to become unstable and the new free radicals begin the search for electrons and stability. This vicious cycle can alter genetic material and damage cell function. A free radicals worst enemy is an antioxidant.
Based on my research on the topic of genetics and foods rich in antioxidant vitamins, the following is what I have learned. Research proves that some individuals lack DNA repair enzymes that are responsible for protecting the skin from free radicals (such as those produced by overexposure to the sun). People who lack the genes for these repair enzymes run a higher risk of developing skin cancer. You cannot change your DNA, but you protect your entire body and can stop additional free radical damage by consuming antioxidant and vitamin rich foods. Provide your skin with the best self-defense it needs to fight aging, wrinkles, and potentially skin cancer.
Other aging culprits at work on our skin in need of antioxidant protection include those from toxic sources. Cigarette smoke and exposure to chemicals either indoors or environmentally are among the highest on the list. Toxic chemicals can damage skin cells reducing their ability to function properly. The result of poorly functioning skin cells is increased inflammation, infection, and a loss in structure. Visually, your face will look puffy or display increased blemishes and/or wrinkles.
As we age, the need for powerful antioxidants and vitamins increases due to fluctuations in hormone levels, which can alter skin metabolism of collagen and elastin. Elastin is what gives your skin its ability to stretch and then return to its natural state. Changes in collagen and elastin formation leads to fine lines and wrinkles. Menopause is of particular concern due to the hormone changes in estrogen production.

Foods that are vitamin-rich with a high antioxidant value are extremely beneficial and can come from a variety of different sources. To name a few, the following are among the top antioxidant wrinkle fighting fruits: acai, acerola, apples, apricots, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, wolfberries (goji berries), kiwi, and tomatoes.
The best vegetables with vitamins and antioxidants for you skin are: bell peppers, brussels sprouts, carrots, garlic, kale, onions, and spinach.
Lastly, the top antioxidants to prevent aging and wrinkles in terms of nuts, seeds, and beverages are: almonds, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, chocolate (dark) green tea, oats, and tuna.

If you cannot or do not wish to alter your diet, but want to supercharge your immune system, prevent premature aging of the skin, and/or free radical damage; choose antioxidant vitamins or supplements that are whole food based packed with plenty of fruits and vegetables for maximum protection.

Source:
by Holly Kostoss