Chew On This: Feed Your Face

Need to know what to eat? Nutritionist Kristen Ciuba can help.

Can I improve my complexion by changing my diet?

WHAT YOU EAT and drink has a lot to do with how your skin looks. Keep yours glowing by choosing foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (Bonus: They'll also help your heart). Salmon and tuna fish, including broiled, canned and in sushi, are smart choices. Omega-3's are also found in walnuts and ground flax seeds, so top you cereal with a tablespoon of ground flax, or snack on a handful of walnuts.

Antioxidant vitamins A and E also promote skin health. Vitamin A-rich foods are dark orange or dark green in color — think carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and broccoli. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils and in nuts like almonds.

Drink eight to 10 glasses of water every day for a dewy complexion, and keep alcohol and caffeine to a minimum; both tend to dehydrate you and your skin. You'll also want to toss the cigarettes and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible.

Kristen Ciuba, MS, is the nutritionist at Results the Gym in Washington. She also implements corporate nutrition programs for local companies. E-mail her at nutrition@readexpress.com.

Photo by Carol Guzy/The Washington Post