Wrinkles on the face appear with age. They are the result of lack of moisture and elasticity of the skin. Early onset of lines on the face may also be an indication that you’re not living a healthy life.

There is a fair amount of research that shows that those who have an unhealthy diet, do not exercise enough, and are not cautious about protecting their skin from sun damage are more prone to the onset of wrinkles. A few changes in lifestyle can help postpone the appearance of facial wrinkles. To start with a healthy diet goes a long way in helping the skin maintain its elasticity. It is important to eat enough nutrient-rich food to give your body nourishment and to reduce the fine lines on your face.

The following foods are believed to be high in nutrients that are good for the skin:

1. Fatty fish – Fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring are a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary to keep the skin from becoming dry. They are also rich in vitamin E and zinc which helps to protect the skin against damage from free radicals and inflammation.
2. Avocados – They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, and anti-oxidants.
3. Walnuts – They contain essential fatty acids and contain omega-3 and omega-6 nutrients.
4. Sunflower seeds – The seeds are a very good source of vitamin E.
5. Sweet potatoes – Sweet potatoes, carrots, oranges, and spinach have high amounts of beta carotene, which provides vitamin A to the body.
6. Bell peppers – Red or yellow bell peppers are an excellent source of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene ranks high in the source of nutrients for healthy skin.
7. Broccoli – Broccoli contains many vitamins and minerals that aid skin health. It is nutrient dense and contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc. Broccoli is packed with a special compound called sulforaphane, which has anti-cancer effects, protecting the body against skin cancer.
8. Tomatoes – They are rich in vitamin C and contain major carotenoids, including lycopene.
9. Soy – A study found that eating soy isoflavones every day for 8 to 12 weeks reduced the fine lines and improved elasticity of the skin. It helps to reduce skin dryness too.
10. Dark chocolate – Dark chocolate helps to hydrate skin thus reducing dryness.
11. Green tea – Green tea is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce damage to the skin, which is caused by exposure to the sun. Avoid adding milk and sugar to the tea.

The bottom line on diet – Foods rich in antioxidants, Vitamin A, C, and E are very good for the skin. Besides the above, foods containing omega acids, zinc, and beta carotenes also help improve skin health and keep it healthy and attractive.

Exercise – A robust workout increases blood circulation and keeps the muscles toned, thus helping you keep the skin younger and delaying the appearance of facial wrinkles. Yoga and breathing exercises are proven to help keep skin looking younger.

Reducing stress – Stress is a major cause of dull looking skin. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, is known to break down the collagen in your skin. Eventually, your skin cells won’t be able to naturally rebuild the elastin and collagen as they could do earlier. This will enhance the appearance of wrinkles earlier than they would have appeared.