A healthy diet can strengthen the immune system, prevent a number of diseases and improve your overall mood and sense of wellbeing. As if you needed yet another important reason to maintain a balanced, nutritious diet, eating well for your overall health can vastly improve your skin, too! If you’re ready to commit to a healthier lifestyle this year, you can add these foods to your diet to achieve a radiant, youthful glow and protect the skin from future aging.

1. Antioxidant-rich fruits

Antioxidants have the power to fight free radicals and protect the skin from environmental stressors. They also prevent moisture loss and help smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and plums all have a high antioxidant concentration, and they make convenient, tote-able snacks or easy additions to your morning smoothie. The antioxidant resveratrol, found in the skin of grapes, is also highly effective. A single glass of red wine every day or two may help you achieve smooth, luminous skin.

2. Essential fatty acids

Essential fatty acids help improve cell health, strengthening the membrane and creating a safety barrier against harmful substances. The stronger the cell membrane, the more moisture a cell holds, and the more plump and youthful skin appears. Salmon is an excellent source of essential fatty acids. You can also snack on walnuts, cook with canola oil or try a sprinkling of chia seeds over yogurt or oatmeal.

3. Whole wheat

The mineral selenium, found in whole wheat products, as well as turkey, tuna and brazil nuts, strengthens skin cells and helps protect the skin against environmental stressors. Studies show that those with high levels of selenium were less likely to experience oxidative stress, keeping risk of sun damage and cancer low.

4. Green tea

Green tea is a star ingredient in many skin care formulas for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Drinking three to five cups a day can help you calm skin redness and achieve a more even tone. Green tea is also wonderful for helping regulate the stomach and preventing certain diseases.

5. Veggies with vitamin A

Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is the most effective anti-aging ingredient on the skin care market. Eating foods with high concentrations of vitamin A can help you beautify your skin from the inside out. Getting in vitamin A is simple--you can find it in most of the components of a vibrant, colorful salad or stir fry. Spinach, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, peppers and cabbage are all excellent sources.

Do you have a recipe for healthy skin? Let us know in the comments section.