You Are What Color You Eat?
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Hemera/Thinkstock(ST. ANDREWS, Scotland) — Physicians and parents have emphasized for years the importance of eating a healthy diet that included plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables. After all, you are what you eat, right?
But what if you are what color you eat? Researchers at St. Andrews University found that increased portions of colorful fruits and vegetables can have an impact on one’s appearance and, in fact, enhance their perceived attractiveness.
Fruits and veggies packed with antioxidant-rich carotenoids like carrots or apricots protect skin cells against damage from UV rays, environmental pollution and the elements. A new study, published in the journal PLoS ONE, highlights the effects these foods can have on the skin’s pigmentation. Furthermore, the study found that people who consume more carotenoids can increase red and yellow pigments in the skin, giving off a perceived healthier glow.
In the following video, Julia Zumpano, R.D. of the Cleveland Clinic tells ABC News about the impact certain foods can have on our pigmentation.
Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio