For a long time, pizza has had a bad reputation as something to avoid at all costs. Many traditional pizzas are loaded down with toppings that are high in fat, calories, and, artificial ingredients. Pizza can actually be an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that are good for the skin. The key is choosing the right ingredients.
Basil is added to most pizza sauces, and fresh basil can be used as a flavorful topping. This herb contains flavonoids, which protect skin cells by guarding against radiation and preventing oxidation of the cells. Oxidation happens with sun exposure and aging, damaging the skin and causing it to wrinkle and sag.
Pineapple is one of the few fruit toppings that go well with pizza. It is also good for the skin because it is a natural anti-inflammatory. It is high in vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins play a major role in the health and rejuvenation of skin cells. They are known to help keep the skin clear and glowing.
Tomatoes, found in the pizza sauce, are an excellent source of lycopene. This powerful antioxidant protects the skin cells from damage caused by the sun, as well as delay the signs of aging. Try adding extra sauce to the pizza, or topping it with halved cherry tomatoes. Canned tomatoes actually have higher amounts of lycopene than raw tomatoes because of the canning process.
Broccoli is not a pizza topping people usually think of, but it can be tasty and skin-friendly. The deep green color indicates it is high in vitamins A, C, and K. These vitamins help in the restoration of damaged skin cells. Just a small amount of broccoli packs a powerful boost of nutrients.
Spinach, a leafy green vegetable, is high in antioxidants. It can help to protect the cells from damage caused by the sun and free radicals. Spinach has a mildly spicy flavor that makes a great addition to cheese and tomato.
Pizza represents all the food groups, and can be an excellent choice if the right toppings are used. Many skin-benefiting ingredients can be packed into one meal, keeping skin healthy and youthful.
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