Clearing Things Up

While there isn’t a whole lot of scientific evidence backing this rumor up, we checked in with Dr. Ava Shamban, a dermatologist based out of Los Angeles. She says a high-sugar, high-fat diet can increase sebum production and promote inflammatory responses in the body, which means that, while chocolate may not directly lead to acne, indulging in foods such as these could very well lead to pimples.

Now that we know what not to eat, here are seven foods researchers swear by. Try munching on these snacks throughout the week for clearer, healthier skin.

Soy. The isoflavone found in soy can help stop collagen from breaking down, which leads to sagging and lines. Fill up a bag with dry-roasted soybeans, or try out a new tofu recipe.

Oysters. Researchers have suggested that some acne sufferers have lower than normal levels of zinc. A six-oyster dinner provides you with over 500 percent of your daily zinc need, costing you a mere 57 calories.

Zinc plays an important role in the growth and function of skin cells.

Oatmeal. Breakfasts high in sugary carbs prompt your body to make insulin and androgens, causing the skin to secrete more oil that gets trapped inside pores, thus producing pimples. Instead of brown sugar, add natural sweeteners to your oatmeal or freshly chopped fruit.

Sardines. Although this may not be your pizza topping of choice, this fish is rich in the type of omega-3 called DHA, an antiinflammatory. Inflammation is the root cause of acne, so packing your diet full of these omega-3s should sound pretty good right about now.

Grass-fed beef. Protein is the building block of both collagen and elastin tissue, which keeps skin taut and wrinkle-free. Beef that is grass fed contains a higher ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, all while packing in the protein.

Tomatoes. One study conducted in the UK in 2008 showed people who ate five tablespoons of tomato paste daily for 12 weeks had 33 percent more protection from sunburn compared to the control group. The antioxidant lycopene improves the skin’s natural SPF.

Dark chocolate. Yes, it’s true. You can put down your pimple cream because this sweet treat is rich in cocoa flavanols or compounds with antioxidant properties. Proven to hydrate skin and improve circulation, women who consumed three ounces of dark chocolate over a 12-week period reported less skin roughness.