From The Straits Times    |
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Photo: 123rf

Sure, they’re known for their intense skincare routine but Korean women don’t just rely on products to help them get really great skin. They’re also focused on their nutrition because they know that their health is just as important. Here are some of the things they love eating to maintain great skin and hair. 

Photo: 123rf

Before you dig in for your next Korean buffet, check out what you should be putting on your plate to look as good as a K-pop celeb.

 

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Korean Barley Tea

Korean women love barley tea because it’s high in antioxidants. Antioxidants prevent environmental free radicals from damaging your skin and causing signs of ageing like wrinkles to form. Plus, research shows that barley tea also prevents tooth decay by creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria, preventing it from blooming.

 

Kimchi

We love us some kimchi and Korean women do too. It may be pungent to some, but it’s full of probiotics and good bacteria that can help to promote the production of beneficial stomach bacteria for a healthy digestive tract. This in turn prevents acne and other skin issues from popping up because when your digestive tract is clear, it is less likely for your body to suffer from various kinds of inflammation.

 

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Makgeolli

Makgeolli is a famous Korean alcoholic drink but surprise! It’s also good for your skin and gut. Just like kimchi, makgeolli has plenty of probiotics. Some Korean skincare brands like Tony Moly even sell sheet masks made with makgeolli extracts.

 

Seaweed soup

Seaweed soup is full of omega-3s and antioxidants to help protect skin from environmental and other damage. Plus, because it’s mainly water, you’ll stay hydrated too and this helps to keep skin supple.

 

ALSO READ: YES, YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT: THIS YUMMY KOREAN FOOD HAS BEEN ‘PROVEN’ TO ZAP ZITS AND SOOTHE YOUR SKIN

 

 

Ginseng

Ginseng is an Asian herb that just about everyone loves and is full of vitamins and minerals for your skin. The minerals and antioxidants are also great for improving skin’s metabolism and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin.

 

Soybean paste

Filled with vitamin E and antioxidants, soybean paste helps to repair and protect skin cells from internal and external stressors, from intrinsic ageing to pollution and UV damage.

 

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