5 Superfood Beauty Boosters
By Colleen McNally Arnett
You’ve undoubtedly long heard the praises of superfoods. These nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals and celebrated for many health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and improved cognitive health. But superfoods aren’t stopping there.
From reducing inflammation to supporting collagen production, unsurprisingly, what you eat has an impact on your skin, hair and overall glow. And while registered dietitian Alissa Palladino, MS, LD, CPT, cautions that no single food or nutrient is a magic bullet; the more variety, the better! Build on a strong foundation of a healthy diet by adding these lesser-known superfoods for a bonus beauty boost.
1. Gamtae
It’s no secret that leafy greens grown on land are good for you, but seaweed may offer additional nutrients. “These could include iodine, which is involved in thyroid function, and B12, which is super important for anyone following a vegan diet,” Palladino explains. “Seaweed can also be a source of omega-3 fatty acids that we know reduce inflammation, which in turn supports healthy skin and, frankly, overall health.”
The Dish: Try wild-harvested Korean sea moss, gamtae, in the Korean Beef Tartare Yukhoe, at the new Asian-fusion concept Mirae in Brookhaven. miraeatl.com
2. Pitaya
Also known as dragon fruit, this superfruit is easy to spot thanks to its bright pink, spiky skin and white interior flecked with black seeds. It’s rich in antioxidants, fiber, magnesium and vitamin C—nutrients that support collagen production, help defend skin cells from free-radical damage and promote skin firmness. Its naturally high water content also helps boosts hydration from the inside out.
The Dish: Pitaya is the star of the Pre-Game Superfood Bowl at E+Rose Wellness Cafe in Old Fourth Ward. Founded by a registered dietitian, E+Rose’s menu emphasizes the medicinal value of food. eandrose.com
3. Anchovies
Tinned fish is trending as the colorful cans make for a cute travel souvenir as much as an affordable snack. Like salmon, anchovies are a fatty fish packed with anti-inflammatory omega-3s, which help maintain the skin’s lipid barrier and may reduce redness and dryness linked to
chronic inflammation.
The Dish: Try the fresh anchovies at Poncey-Highland’s Fishmonger. The Cantabrian Anchovy Tartine with Banner Butter, espelette and ciabatta packs a punch that locals rave about. fishmongergroup.com
4. Low-Fat Greek Yogurt
“I love recommending plain low-fat Greek yogurt, which is high in protein, calcium and probiotics,” notes Palladino. These probiotics help support a healthy gut microbiome, which is increasingly linked to reduced skin inflammation and clearer complexions. For extra umph, add blueberries, blackberries or raspberries—all excellent sources of fiber and antioxidants.
The Dish: Bread & Butterfly in Inman Park is known for refined dishes and quality ingredients. For breakfast, dig into the house yogurt with seasonal fruit and granola.
bread-and-butterfly.com
5. Walnuts
Like chia and flaxseeds, walnuts contain the plant form of omega-3s, making them a smart choice for vegetarian diets. Walnuts are also rich in vitamin E and polyphenols—antioxidants that help protect skin cells from oxidative stress that contributes to premature aging—while their healthy fats support moisture retention and overall skin texture.
The Dish: For a treat that is as tasty as it is nutritious, start your day with a Carrot Walnut Muffin at The Daily Chew in Buckhead. dailychewatl.com
