I know you’ve heard it before, the old saying, “You are what you eat”. Studies are popping up everywhere confirming that the statement is actually true. What you consume can, in fact, affect your outward appearance. Follow the tips below to make sure you look fabulous at your upcoming event.

Examine Your Dietary Habits

Many changes that the body incurs can be traced back to your diet. Doctors often recommend that patients keep a food diary when they notice certain changes in the body. Taking a close look at your diet can give key indicators of why your body is reacting a certain way.

You’ll want to pay attention to these factors that can directly affect the body and skin include: refined grains, sugar intake, Omega-6 fatty acids.

Refined grains have high amounts of carbohydrates. High carb intake is directly related to increased insulin levels and increased insulin levels mean higher sugar levels in the blood. Increased amounts of sugar in the blood can create thriving environments for candida to grow. By eliminating the sugar, we can reduce things like acne and inflammation within the body.

Additionally, you’ll want to monitor your fat intake. A small amount of fat is very necessary for the body to function properly. Fat cannot be created within the body so it's necessary that you provide it with such. Certain vitamins (Vitamin A, D and E) can only be absorbed into the body when fats are present. However, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the right fats. Steer clear of foods with lots of Omega-6 fats--like fried foods, baked desserts, and other high fructose snacks. Instead, opt for foods with Omega-3 fats--like salmon and avocado.

Lastly, you'll want to make sure you're getting foods that are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals that are harmful to the skin. If you want clear, blemish-free skin go for antioxidants like vitamin C, which helps facilitate collagen production. Foods that are high in antioxidants include: oranges, blueberries, grapes (purple, red and blue), dark leafy greens, nuts, sweet potatoes. Antioxidants have also been shown to lower risks of certain cancers.

Don’t Skip The Multivitamin

Life can get hectic, but don’t forget to take your daily multivitamin. If you thought multivitamins were just for growing children, you’re wrong, As you get older, your body starts making less hormones. Having fewer hormones in the body can cause certain bodily processes to slow down or even dissipate completely. In turn, your body starts needing more nutrients to compensate for these losses. A multivitamin can give your body just that.

Key nutrients that a maturing woman may need include:

• Calcium
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin B12
• Iron
• Folic Acid
• Omega Fatty Acids

Taking a daily multivitamin ensures that you’re getting the necessary nutrients that your body needs to thrive. Select an appropriate multivitamin based off your age and any deficiencies that you might have. Some multivitamins may have supplements or additives like collagen for hair and nail growth, energy boosters for those that need increased focusing ability, and probiotics for those with digestion issues. A thriving body working in optimal condition can mean all of the difference.

Stay Hydrated Throughout The Day

When it comes to maintaining the body, water is one of the last things that are given thought. In actuality, it’s one of the most important necessities of the body. Water is what helps all of the bodily processes, from cells to organs, take place. In fact, without it, the body would begin to shut down.

Water helps carry nutrients throughout the body, helps regulate body temperature, helps remove toxins from the body, and more. So, try to keep a bottle of water on you throughout the day. You should be drinking about half your weight in ounces. Women that continually maintain hydration produce less acne, look more youthful, and have more energy. Water intake also has a direct impact on how supple your skin looks. As you can see, staying hydrated is vital if you want to cultivate beauty from within the body.

You Are What You Consume

It’s not at all hard to build beauty from the inside. These changes can directly affect your appearance and ensure your health long term. All it takes is a little attention to detail and possibly a few changes to your dietary habits. What changes will you be making from the list?