I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease over a year ago, and ever since then, I’ve been extra careful about what foods go into my body. In addition to removing certain foods from my day-to-day diet, I’ve done a lot of research into what foods to increase. If you haven’t read it, Eat Pretty is a great resource for seasonal foods and their multitudes of benefits. But to get you started, here are some of the best powerhouse foods that not only beautify, but also help heal your gut.
Dandelion Greens
From root to flower, dandelions are highly nutritious plants, loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber. Dandelion greens can be eaten cooked or raw and serve as an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate and small amounts of other B vitamins. Dandelions are a rich source of beta-carotene and polyphenolic compounds, both of which are known to have strong antioxidant capabilities that can prevent aging and certain diseases. Inulin, a fiber found in dandelion root, may also support healthy bones through improved digestion and the promotion of healthy gut bacteria.
Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain, which is a mix of enzymes that studies show can reduce inflammation and nasal swelling, and also aid in the healing of wounds and burns. It’s also been linked to helping improve digestion and has historically been used to treat digestive disorders. If you’re a fair-skinned gal like myself, pineapple juice might be your new bff. Those same bromelain enzymes help in acne treatment and healing of skin problems. Bromelain makes the skin firm and flexible and provides elasticity and beauty to the skin by synthesis of collagen.
Ginger
Ginger contains natural oils known as gingerols that reduce inflammation and pain. Anti-inflammatory benefits of gingerols can help soothe irritated skin and improve the overall appearance of the skin’s texture. Ginger also has qualities that calm your stomach and help alleviate bloating and gas. Ginger is also a research-backed remedy for nausea, including motion sickness, chemotherapy and morning sickness.
Asparagus
In addition to fiber, asparagus is also rich in water—and this helps prevent constipation and improves the health of the digestive tract. Asparagus is a prebiotic as well. Prebiotics are plant fibers that nourish the good bacteria in the gut and also create a balance between the good and bad. In terms of bloating, asparagus works wonders. Sure, it might make your pee smell for a while, but it does flush out all the excess water and relieve bloating.
Another advantage of including asparagus in your diet is its ability to diminish skin blemishes like acne scars, pimples and other marks on the skin, and for making our skin flawless again. The antioxidants in asparagus protect our skin cells from the oxidative damage caused by the free radicals, and thus reduces the risk of signs of premature aging like fine lines, wrinkles and skin blemishes. It is also a good source of water (around 90 percent), which keeps our skin well-moisturized and healthy.
Watermelon
Watermelon contains lots of water and a small amount of fiber—both of which are important for healthy digestion. Eating water-rich and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, including watermelon, can be very helpful for promoting a healthy gut. Two vitamins in watermelon—A and C—are important for skin and hair health. Vitamin C helps your body make collagen, a protein that keeps your skin supple and your hair strong. Vitamin A is also important for healthy skin since it helps create and repair skin cells. Without enough vitamin A, your skin can look dry and flaky. And no one wants flaky summer skin.
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