Inside Out Beauty: Top Beauty and Health Foods

Looking and feeling good start from the inside.  What we put into our bodies reflects in our outward appearance and overall health.  Here are some top health and beauty foods according to celebrity dermatologist Dr. Nicholas Perricone, the author of numerous best-selling books, including "The Perricone Prescription" and "The Wrinkle Cure."BlueberriesThis perpetual topper of "superfood" lists gets the thumbs-up from Perricone for being one of the greatest sources of antioxidants, as well as a potent anti-inflammatory.ApplesWho needs exotic tropical fruits? This old standby is bursting with anti-inflammatory, cancer-fighting phytonutrients, as well as the antioxidant quercetin, says Perricone. Apples also pack a big dose of fiber, which can help you slim down by filling you up. Wild salmonThis fish is rich in long-chain omega-3 essential fatty acids, which Perricone calls the most beneficial kind. Omega-3s bolster heart health, may fight depression, and help keep skin young, supple, and radiant. Wild salmon also contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.NutsNuts such as hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds are good sources of heart-healthy short-chain (plant-based) omega-3 essential fatty acids. Nuts are also high in an amino acid called arginine, which Perricone says can not only help reduce cholesterol and boost the immune system but also increase lean muscle and burn fat, giving you a sleeker physique.Dark Leafy GreensGreens such as kale and spinach contain antioxidants called carotenoids that can reduce the risks of heart disease, neutralize carcinogens, protect your eyes, enhance immune response, and help your skin by blocking sunlight-induced inflammation, which can lead to wrinkles and skin cancer.AsparagusThis fiber-rich favorite provides copious amounts of rutin, a bioflavonoid that Perricone says may help prevent broken capillaries. It's also a great source of the antioxidant glutathione.Olive oilThis go-to oil for heart health is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Its essential fatty acids also nourish the skin, says Perricone, who recommends using it in your cooking and even as a topical oil.Green teaThis beverage is rich in polyphenol antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and free radicals, slowing down the signs of aging, as well as protecting against heart disease and cancer.Red wineCould a glass of Cab be the new fountain of youth? Red wine contains a powerful heart-healthy, anti-cancer, anti-aging antioxidant called resveratrol, says Perricone. "It also appears that resveratrol helps protect the skin against the sun's UV radiation." According to Perricone, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes have the highest concentration of antioxidants. Just be sure to keep it to one glass, and have your wine with a meal to mitigate the inflammatory effects of alcohol, advises Perricone.Dark chocolateDark chocolate is good for you! It's a great source of antioxidants and a potential mood elevator (and we all know that feeling good is a great way to get glowing skin). Perricone recommends buying chocolate with 80 percent cocoa solids or more to get a hearty dose of antioxidants and avoid excess sugar. Try chocolate in savory recipes, such as chili, or just dip fresh fruit in melted extra-dark chocolate for a one-two antioxidant punch.(article via today.msnbc.msn.com)