What nutrients prevent wrinkles?

You may have heard the old wives tale that consuming vitamin C can help fight a cold, but what about wrinkles?

A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition of over 4,000 women between the ages of 40 and 70 showed that routine higher takes of vitamin C-rich foods was significantly associated with a decrease in the prevalence of wrinkled and dry skin due to aging. The study also found that higher intakes of linoleic acid reduced the chances of developing not only the same age-related dryness but also thinning of the skin.

While citrus fruits, juices and tomatoes are the leading sources of vitamin C in the American diet, green leafy vegetables, soybean oil, flaxseeds, and walnuts are ringers for linoleic acid.

Tip: Beautify your breakfast by topping your whole grain cereal with ground flaxseeds and chase your morning meal with a glass of OJ. Add spinach to your lunchtime green salad and sprinkle a spoonful of chopped walnuts to give it crunch. For a linoleic-rich salad dressing, combine balsamic vinegar and soybean oil to top it off.

Some studies suggest that specific nutrients may help prevent wrinkles. For instance, in one 2007 study, scientists found that women who consumed lots of foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, had the fewest wrinkles and best overall skin appearance. The finding does not prove, though, that vitamin C fights wrinkles. It could be that women who consume high amounts of vitamin C tend to have other skin-protecting habits, such as wearing sunscreen and avoiding tobacco.

Much more remains to be learned about the relationship between diet and wrinkles. As a rule, eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet is a smart strategy for healthy skin. See a dermatologist to discuss steps you can take to keep your skin youthful-looking.