Skin is the largest organ of your body that protects you against the elements. Those people who possess glowing, smooth, hydrated, and clear skin can be proud of it. On the opposite side, people with acne, eczema, and other skin issues can suffer from anxiety and depression. This is an especially common problem in women with a hormonal imbalance. Acne, PMS-related breakouts or skin dryness caused by menopause and hypothyroidism can occur due to hormonal havoc in your body.

Don’t worry! Luckily, Mother Nature has provided us with everything we need to improve our health and appearance, including the skin. Let’s talk about seven superfoods that can help you boost your health, regulate hormones, and maintain healthy and glowing skin. However, it’s important to combine these foods with a healthy diet, exercise plan and a positive attitude toward stress to enhance their effectiveness.

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is a magic spice known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It’s commonly used for osteoarthritis, depression, high cholesterol, cancer, liver disease, and many other conditions. Turmeric has also fantastic effects on the skin. Turmeric is rich in antioxidants. It also decreases inflammation linked to skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. You can use it either topically or internally to fight oxidative stress that can cause PMS and skin problems.

2. Liver

Yes, many of us hate eating liver but it can offer you numerous health benefits. The liver can strengthen your bones, promote heart health, aid cognitive performance, accelerate muscle growth, and benefit your skin. This is due to the high content of many vitamins and micronutrients like Vitamins A and D, iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Zinc is an important nutrient for both hormones and skin with its immune-modulating effects.

3. Walnuts

You probably know that walnuts are considered brain food. However, their high omega-3 content also makes them beneficial for improving skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids have demonstrated a reduction of depression, anxiety, and mood swings linked to hormonal imbalances. Walnuts also decrease inflammation and regulate insulin levels which often cause acne in women.

4. Berries

Berries of all types like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, etc can help improve your skin and balance your hormones. This is due to the fact that they are full of antioxidants – free radical-fighters that will combat skin aging. Berries are also low in sugars and contain a lot of fiber, which makes them perfect for stabilizing blood sugar and thus your hormones and PMS-type symptoms.

5. Oats

Oats are packed with fiber and silicon and therefore they can be a good addition to the skin-brightening diet. Silicon is a trace mineral that encourages the strength of body tissues, while also helping skin maintain elasticity, slowing the aging process. But keep in mind that oats often contain gluten. If you have gluten intolerance or sensitivity, eating gluten-containing oats can exacerbate your hormone imbalance and lead to other health issues. That’s why your best bet is to consult your gastroenterologist and run labs to find out if you have a gluten intolerance.

6. Broccoli

Broccoli is one of the extremely nutritious cruciferous vegetables. It’s rich in blood sugar-balancing fiber and anti-aging Vitamins C and A. This superfood also contains estrogen-balancing molecules that may be helpful in balancing hormones as well as treating hormone-related skin issues like acne.

7. Avocado

Avocados are packed with healthy fats that will help you regulate blood sugar levels. They also contain skin-calming minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and antioxidants that help your body fight oxidative stress. This fruit is extremely beneficial for women with estrogen imbalance or related conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, and fibroids.