Ever wonder just how much food can affect your skin? A lot, actually — especially for people who decide to go vegan. Those who subscribe to the diet do not eat any animal products, which means no meat, no dairy, no eggs, or honey.

Veganism has sparked a lot of buzz in recent years, as new research has claimed significant health benefits to a plant-based diet. The veggie-centered diet also offers environmental benefits since not eating meat or dairy can reduce your carbon footprint. But now, there's another argument in favor of going vegan: not eating animal products can improve your skin.

But does give up meat, dairy, eggs, and honey-do anything for your skin? The answer isn't a simple "yes" or "no."

Get glowing skin with a plant-based diet

Plant-based diets are often associated with healthy weight and healthy bodies, but one thing that plant-based diets can offer that we don't consider is healthy skin. Why do plant-based diets help with healthy skin, and what can you do to help your skin shine with plant-based eating?

What's different?

So what's the difference between an average diet and one that cuts out animal products? Lots of things – primarily that with plant-based products, you are getting a more dense nutrient profile. With a plant-based diet, you'll get more vitamins, more minerals, and more healthy nutrients. Primarily, a healthy, plant-based diet will provide your body with more vitamin A, vitamin C, antioxidants, and vitamin E – all things that your skin needs to stay healthy.

Consider water content

Getting 2 liters of water per day is a challenge, and we rarely consider how much water we get out of our food. Grains and meat don't provide much in the way of water, but fruits and veggies do. By adding more fruit and vegetables to your diet, you'll be giving your body more water to keep your skin clear and reduce irritation. Consider this savory pesto sandwich from our Meal Planner; it's packed with veggies high in water content.

Reduced inflammation

Inflammation causes a lot of issues in the body, including acne. Meat and dairy are common causes of inflammation, so by cutting them out of your diet, you're immediately making an improvement in your life that will positively affect your skin. 

Embrace healthy-skin foods

When taking the plant-based plunge, you can take an extra step; include foods that you know are good for your skin. Here are a few foods to consider:

Turmeric: Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory; turmeric is excellent in soups and dips.

Chia/Flaxseeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids to help promote healthy cells.

Berries: Blueberries and the like are high in antioxidants to help repair damaged cells.

Pineapple: Also, papayas and kiwis are high in an enzyme called bromelain that helps to reduce inflammation.

Healthy oils: Introduce healthy fats into your diet with cold-pressed oils, such as avocado, macadamia, and coconut oils that are full of polyphenols to soothe the skin.

Green tea: Sub out coffee (and sugar and cream) with antioxidant-rich green tea and make it easier to get your daily water intake.