Foods that are rich in Vitamin A are nature’s own beauty remedy for skin issues. When you consume food-based sources that contain this powerful nutrient, it acts as an antioxidant and is more powerful than supplements or creams. Vitamin A can help clear up acne, brighten your skin, fight wrinkles and create a smoother looking skin. It can also be a massive help to those of us who suffer from pigmentation problems. We’ve selected four of the best food sources of Vitamin A, so why not try adding more of them into your diet and we guarantee they’ll make a big difference to your skin!
Sweet potatoes
When this food was labelled a ‘super food’ by nutrition experts across the globe, they weren’t lying or bending the truth. In fact, eating just one sweet potato a day will give you over 100% of your Vitamin A needs. This sweet, starchy root vegetable is also high in potassium and fibre. To ensure you get the highest Vitamin A content, opt for the orange-fleshed sweet potatoes over other types such as purple sweet potatoes.
All hail the kale
Kale has become rather famous in recent years, you can even buy hoodies and baseball caps declaring your love for this leafy green. And it’s not surprising why as this super green is full of Vitamin A, C, iron, and fibre! One cup of kale contains right over 80% of your daily Vitamin A needs. Kale smoothie, anyone? Most leafy greens are especially high in Vitamin A, as are orange veggies. You can usually bet that anything with a bright green, orange, or reddish hue is a great source of Vitamin A. Pass me the kale!
Swap ‘candy’ for carrots
Many refer to carrots as nature’s candy and they really are one of the best sources of Vitamin A there is. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is the form of Vitamin A found in food-based sources. Carrots also contain Vitamin C, magnesium, fibre, and make the perfect afternoon snack! Carrot stick anyone?
Spinach is packed to the brim with all things good
Spinach is such a nutritious green! There’s almost no vitamin and mineral it doesn’t contain, with Vitamin A being one of the most abundant of them all. Spinach contains over 100% of your daily Vitamin A in just one cup. To obtain the most Vitamin A, it’s best to consume spinach raw instead of cooked, and buy organic where possible.
image:istock.com/Prostock-Studio