Skin relies on several biological processes to stay healthy, but maintaining a glowy complexion starts with what we eat.
While no single food can reverse wrinkles on the face and other signs of ageing, certain nutrients support skin health and protect the organ against oxidative stress.
Antioxidants are among the most powerful anti-ageing weapons because they reduce inflammation and fight free radicals.
Gym Tan, a beauty enthusiast who has built a large following on TikTok sharing her lifestyle tips, gets her daily fix of antioxidants from a cup of green tea.
Gym Tan starts her day with the same drink every day
GETTY / GYM TAN / INSTAGRAM
“I start my mornings with a moment of calm, and a cup of green tea," said Gym. “I embrace my rich Asian heritage of drinking green tea for health.
“This simple routine is my of centring myself and practising self-care.”
The drink contains an abundance of powerful antioxidants known as EGCC (epigallocatechin gallate), which fight DNA damage from UV rays.
Researchers investigating the anti-ageing effects of green tea shared valuable insight in the European Journal of Integrative Medicine in 2020.
They concluded their research with the statement: “The study results have shown that green tea may be a functional processed plant which could be used as an anti-skin ageing agent in natural remedies, including food, health and cosmetic products.”
Drinking three to five cups of green tea per day seems optimal for reaping the most benefits from the plants.
It should be noted that exceeding this limit could result in unpleasant side effects due to the beverage’s caffeine levels, however.
To enhance the appearance of skin, Gym recommends keeping stress levels down to a minimum as anxiety can compromise the quality of skin over time.
In another video, the content creator discussed additional routines that have helped her achieve a glowy complexion in her 60s.
“Get a lot of sleep, so I get seven hours of sleep," she said. “Next, you’ve got to move and exercise, all that energy and oxygen is great for your skin.
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Gym encourages a low-stress lifestyle for glowy skin
GYM TAN / INSTAGRAM
“Thirdly, eat as healthy as you can, I try to get a good mix of everything, colourful fruits and vegetables, some carbohydrates, and I eat protein at every single meal.
“And mostly, have a very positive attitude towards life, I wake up every day, grateful, ready to learn something new and I think that positivity radiates through your skin.”
The importance of sleep is often overlooked, but dermatologists stress that it is pivotal for glowing skin.
Not only does it promote better recovery after exposure to UV light, but it also allows for tired skin to repair through increased cell proliferation and helps regulate hormones.
