8 foods to eat for a natural glowing tan

by Georgina Tsel (follow)

Natural Beauty (120)      Skin Care (100)      Lists (61)     

Did you know that by eating specific foods you can improve the quality of your skin, nails and hair? Yes, it seems a little crazy, but it's not. We spend so much time obsessing over the 'perfect tan', and unfortunately tend to damage our skin in the process.

From solariums to expensive greasy tan oils, prolonged periods in the sun, and harsh, uneven and chemically induced tanning lotions, we're always on the hunt for ways to speed up the tanning process.



We're visually inclined people, and we have become accustomed to this exaggerated aesthetic ideal of how we should look - overly tanned. But, it's also vital for us to get vitamin D and time spent in the sun can be a good thing for both our mood levels and our skin. A natural glow can leave you feeling and looking confident, healthy and happy.



Natural ways to gain a golden complexion include eating wholefoods proven to contain high amounts of carotenoids. Of course, you won't become a bronzed beach babe overnight, but over time these foods can actually promote tanning.

1. Carrots



Carrots are high in antioxidants and known to provide many health benefits. Carotene is responsible for the gorgeous orange skin and colour of the vegetable.

2. Tomatoes



Tomatoes are great and are easily integrated into your daily eating regime. You can grill or roast them, or add them to salads and sauces too.

3.Sweet potato



Like carrots, sweet potato consists of a yellow and orange hue, and can contribute to a healthy looking complexion.

4. Apricots



Just another reason to eat more delicious apricots. They're jam packed with carotenoids; a natural pigment that gives them their beautiful yellowish brown colour. Who doesn't love apricots!

5. Spinach and kale



Spinach and kale are two vitamin enriched super foods that do wonders and are beneficial in many ways. These leafy greens should be a staple in your diet. Add them to salads, juices and smoothies or steam them with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.

6. Eggs



Yes, this may sound odd but eggs assist in producing a healthy looking tan. Egg yolks are high in vitamin A, an important vitamin that maintains healthy skin, teeth, bone and soft tissue. Opt for organic and free range eggs.

7. Mangoes



I'm pretty much obsessed with mangoes and could honestly eat them everyday so I'm quite happy with this one. Mangoes are extremely high in vitamin A and are also great to curb those artificial sugar cravings.

8. Olive oil



Olive oil, a healthy and powerful omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid, has been compared to a natural elixir; it can help fight the flu, and lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. What's more, it's high in antioxidants, and unlike the other vitamin A rich veggies, it contains vitamin E.

This healthy oil is best eaten raw and can assist in maintaining moist, soft and nourished skin. In addition, consuming olive oil with the above mentioned veggies (or any other source of healthy oil) will help the body absorb beneficial carotenes.

By sticking to a natural health regime, eating plenty of these foods, and enjoying the sunshine in moderation, your skin will be glowing in no time.

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