Turn to page 79 of September's The Simple Things for your free sample of Pukka supreme matcha green tea. Put the kettle on, brew up and read on to discover why its ingredients are so beneficial.
YOUR SKIN
Pollution proofing
Our skin is an expression of our health and our environment, so when we’re tired or unwell, it can look grey or dull. And when we’re exposed to lots of toxins and free radicals, and don’t have enough antioxidants to mop them up, one of the results can be faster skin ageing. There are unique substances found in plant foods that are said to have antioxidant activity, which work to protect our cells and tissues – including our skin – against the damaging effects of free radicals and pollution.
So one of the primary ways to support our body’s antioxidant defence system is to consume plenty of plant foods – especially vegetables and fruit, which are brimming with all-important polyphenols and other antioxidants.
Golden glow
Turmeric is particularly effective for fighting against free radicals, thanks to its content of curcuminoids – pigments that give this super spice its bright yellow-orange colour.
Curcumin, the most widely studied, may even directly reduce skin ageing, including preventing moisture loss and protecting against wrinkles. You can get your daily dose of turmeric by including it in homemade curries and other Asian-inspired dishes, but buy a top-quality organic turmeric powder or fresh root to reap the full benefits.
Green gold
Green tea contains catechins, which have demonstrated pretty impressive abilities to fight free radicals. A specific catechin called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is thought to have the most potent protective activity. To get the most out of your green tea, go for matcha. Matcha tea is a high-quality powdered green tea used in Japanese tea ceremonies. It’s made from only the fresh leaf tips of the tea plant, with darker green, sweeter-tasting leaves packed with antioxidants.
GLOSSARY
Free radicals
A molecule that is highly chemically reactive towards other substances. Rust is an example of free radical damage that happens in the environment. In the body, when there are excessive free radicals around, this can cause damage to cells and proteins that make up the body’s tissues – including our skin.
Antioxidants
Substances that react with free radicals, stopping the chain of damage that can occur.
Polyphenols
Micronutrients found in our diet that have an antioxidant effect.
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