The Handbook

Eat Better,
Look Better

Here's some good news: You don't need to drop a lot of cash on some fancy skincare products or a pricey haircut to look your best. It turns out, you can up your handsome factor simply by eating less processed junk and noshing on the right fruits, vegetables and other nutritious foods. After all, we could all probably do better when it comes to eating—it's been reported that about 70% of Americans don't eat enough vegetables. So here's a cheat sheet on which foods will do your body (and your skin and hair) some good.

Eggs

They're packed with protein, but eggs are also high in iron (which can help stave off hair loss) and sulfur (which keeps your hair soft and smooth). Plus, they contain collagen boosting amino acids which keeps skin smooth and fine lines at bay.

Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Mangos, Kale, Spinach

Clear eyes, clear skin ... can't lose. Orange foods and dark, leafy greens are rich in Vitamin A, which helps skin regenerate and prevents it from drying out. The greens are also high in the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin that are great for keeping the whites of your eyes clear.

Fish, Flax Seeds, Olive Oil, Walnuts

The "good fats" known as omega-3s found in these foods are credited with helping your skin look and feel better. The fatty acids reduce the body's production of inflammatory compounds, meaning less irritation and breakouts. They also have hydrating effects on your scalp, reducing itchiness, flaking and dandruff.

Bananas, Almonds, Raisins

Keep your skin tight and elastic by ensuring you're getting enough potassium, which helps to balance fluids and minerals in your body. It also reduces stress levels, which helps calm skin. There are also amino acids found in these foods which help build muscles.

Cucumbers, Zucchini, Pineapple, Melon

The key to healthy skin? Hydration. And while chugging water is great, it tends to run right though you. Water-rich foods are retained in the body longer, fueling cells throughout the day which results in supple, younger-looking skin.

Tomatoes, Watermelon, Strawberries, Broccoli

Bursting with antioxidants, these foods strengthen skin and can actually improve the efficacy of your SPF, preventing you from developing dark spots. And foods rich in the antioxidant lycopene—tomatoes, watermelon and red bell peppers—help to reduce skin irritation and redness.

FYI

According to the docs at the Centers for Disease Control, the average male needs three one-cup servings of vegetables a day to maintain a healthy lifestyle.