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Hey good looking, what you got cooking?

In 2009, a Datamonitor survey found that over half of American consumers are interested in foods and beverages that help improve appearance. No wonder then we’re now spoilt for choice when it comes to so-called nutricosmetics, from collagen-infused marshmallows and cleavage-boosting tea to Botox-spiked breakfast jam.

Unfortunately, The British Skin Foundation has so far discovered no evidence that eating collagen would benefit your skin in any way, and the Japanese seem no more buxom than they were before Coca Cola launched Love Body tea in 2001. The Botox jam boldly claims to reduce wrinkles and signs of fatigue by an amazing 75 per cent after just one month’s use. Is this the miraculous beauty solution we’ve all been looking for? Somehow we’re not convinced.

So, while we won’t be rushing to buy magic jam at £4.80 for 120g, is there any hope for those of us eager to combine beauty and the feast? The answer is yes, but don’t expect miracles in a jar. Our list of superfoods, which not only make you look great but taste great, too, are all natural and 100% collagen free.

Carrots, plums and mangoes

Results from recent research by the University of Nottingham show beyond doubt that these carotenoid-heavy fruit make you more attractive. The participants were asked to compare faces with a deep suntan to ones with the yellowy-golden glow you get from eating carotenoids. The carrot-crunchers scored higher for both health and beauty.

Nuts

A fantastic source of vitamin E and omega-3 essential fatty acids (excellent for keeping your skin supple and radiant), nuts also contain an amino-acid called arginine. According to Nick Perricone, the father of all superfood gurus, this can not only help reduce cholesterol and boost your immunity but also tone your body by increasing lean muscle and burning fat.  

Blueberries

This firm favourite of nutrition experts, packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances, is high in potassium and vitamin C, too. While potassium is brilliant for getting rid of puffiness around the eyes, vitamin C boosts collagen production to improve skin elasticity.

Asparagus

High in fiber, asparagus can help you slim down by filling you up. On top of this, it contains plenty of rutin, a bioflavonoid that’s been linked to preventing broken capillaries. Thanks to the antioxidant glutathione, it’s also a great detoxifier.

Avocados

The lutein in avocados protects the lenses of your eyes, keeping them moist and maxing out their sparkle. Add to this the anti-aging properties of vitamins E and C and the detoxifying effects of potassium, and you’d be out of your mind not to tuck into your guacamole.

You can never have too much of a good thing, so if you know of any other foods that do the business when it comes to beauty, please do let us know.

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