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Have you ever wondered why Koreans have glassy, poreless, translucent skin? Beyond genetic factors, advanced skincare formulations, and an 11-step skincare routine, the real secret is food.
Our skin serves as a map and reflection of our body. Have you ever eaten something that made you break out or look puffy? That's exact proof of the direct connection between our gut and skin. So, what's the secret to the Korean diet? It incorporates a lot of fish and seafood, dishes with broth, kimchi, and side dishes that not only promote good health and well-being but also manifest in the skin, which is the most visible part of the body.
1. Kimchi
This vegetable dish contains antioxidants and selenium found in garlic. Its key component is glutathione. Kimchi, especially when fermented for a long time, has the most significant anti-aging prevention effect. Alongside its natural probiotic effect, it boasts a high activity of lactic acid and zymogens.
2. Bone Broth
Bone broth is an excellent source of collagen, maintaining youthful, hydrated, plump, and glowing skin. It contains amino acids such as glycine and proline, which are essential for skin health. Glycine reduces wrinkles, while proline aids in wound healing.
Expensive collagen supplements often fail to deliver results. Because bone broth is derived from whole foods, the collagen from the bone is highly bioavailable, ensuring absorption and better outcomes.
3. Green Tea
Koreans embrace green tea not merely for its taste but also for its health benefits. This beverage boasts a range of therapeutic properties, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory effects, and even cancer prevention.
In a study conducted in 2005 by the National Institute of Health and involving 80 women, those who received treatment with topical and oral green tea exhibited enhanced skin elasticity. The epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) present in green tea demonstrated the ability to potentially slow down or even prevent the development of acne.
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4. Seaweed
A primary staple in Korean health foods is seaweed, which is considered a superfood. It's rich in minerals, vitamins, micronutrients, omega-3, and iodine. Seaweed possesses ten times the potency of most plants and is often referred to as the "hyaluronic acid of the sea." It reduces inflammation, soothes and hydrates the skin, and helps prevent breakouts.
5. Makegeolli
While indulging in a refreshing Aperol Spritz might lead to breakouts, this fermented rice wine, Makgeolli, can actually grant you super skin. It boasts more skincare benefits than over-the-counter supplements. The fermentation process, much like in kimchi, is a well-kept secret. Packed with Vitamin B, it imparts bright, glowing, healthy skin.
Remember: "Eat your food like your medicine, so when you grow old, you don't eat your medicine like food." You are what you eat, and your skin is too. It's your body's largest and most visible organ, so take exceptional care of it and stay well!
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