Khaberni - A recent scientific study revealed that the secret to healthy and youthful skin lies in proper nutrition from within, especially through the consumption of natural Vitamin C found in fruits.
Researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand have identified a direct and strong relationship between the level of this vitamin in the blood and improved essential skin functions.
The study, which was conducted on volunteers in New Zealand and Germany and published in a journal specializing in skin research, showed that consuming just two kiwifruits per day for eight weeks, which provides about 250 micrograms of Vitamin C, led to significant results. This increased the thickness of the skin notably due to the stimulation of collagen production, as well as accelerated the process of skin cell renewal and improved its elasticity and ability to protect against ultraviolet rays.
Professor Margaret Vissers, the team leader, commented that the results were astonishing, as they found that the skin absorbs Vitamin C from the bloodstream very efficiently, and even prioritizes delivering it to the outer layers. She added that this explains why dietary intake of the vitamin is more effective in improving skin health than merely applying it topically through products, which have difficulty penetrating the skin barrier due to the vitamin's high water solubility.
Vissers emphasized that the key is to maintain an optimal level of Vitamin C in the blood, which can be easily achieved through a daily diet. Since the body cannot store this vitamin, she recommended consuming at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, ensuring to include a source rich in Vitamin C such as citrus, berries, or sweet peppers.
The benefits of kiwifruit, which was used as a model in the study, are not limited to the skin only. Research also indicates its role in improving digestion and enhancing mood within a few days, improving sleep quality if consumed before bedtime, as well as its benefits for heart and eye health and weight management. This confirms that this small green fruit is indeed a treasure trove of multiple health benefits.
