Spending a lot of money on cleansers, oils, serums, and creams is common when it comes to skincare. If you are hoping for a noticeable decrease in wrinkles, you can spend twice as much, regardless of your budget. Experts advise against expecting the dramatic outcomes you’re hoping for if you don’t adopt specific lifestyle practices. The majority of items that promise more youthful appearances won’t help you as much as drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy diet rich in foods good for your skin. Specifically, a 2021 study that was published in the journal Nutrients discovered that consuming almonds can age you by many years.
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Eating Almonds Can Make You Look Younger
Almonds and Facial Aging
The research team embarked on a comprehensive study involving 56 post-menopausal women who exhibited common signs of facial aging, including wrinkles and uneven pigmentation. Over a 24-week period, the participants were divided into two groups, with one incorporating 20% of their daily calories from almonds and the other consuming a calorie-matched alternative snack.
Almonds vs. Alternative Snack
After 16 weeks, the researchers observed a noteworthy outcome in the almond intervention group. The average wrinkle severity showed a promising 15% reduction compared to the alternative snack group. This positive trend persisted, and by week 24, there was an overall 16% reduction in wrinkles among those consuming almonds. Additionally, the almond group experienced a significant 20% decrease in facial pigment intensity over the study period.
Alpha-Tocopherol and Beyond
The researchers attribute the potential for more youthful-looking skin to the presence of alpha-tocopherol, a form of vitamin E found in almonds. Alpha-tocopherol boasts antioxidant and photoprotective functions, particularly against ultraviolet type A radiation associated with the development of wrinkles and uneven pigmentation.
Nutrient Impact on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Beyond alpha-tocopherol, the nutrients in almonds impact oxidative stress and inflammation levels, crucial factors influencing skin appearance. Dermatologists, including Neera Nathan, MD, have begun emphasizing the holistic benefits of almonds for skincare. Nathan specifically recommends incorporating three handfuls of almonds into the daily diet to combat premature signs of aging.
Intake and Alternatives
Acknowledging concerns about the caloric intake associated with almonds, experts emphasize that as long as the consumed calories are accounted for in the overall diet, the nutritional benefits of almonds contribute to skin health. For those with nut allergies or preferences, Omega-3 supplements are suggested as an alternative with similar skincare benefits.
Holistic Approach to Skincare
While almonds showcase potential benefits for skincare, dermatologists like Neera Nathan stress the need for additional research. Nathan recommends a holistic approach to skincare, combining almond consumption with other practices such as daily sunscreen use, application of antioxidant serums (like Vitamin C), and the incorporation of retinoids into the skincare routine for optimal results.
