On Thanksgiving, we gather with loved ones and share an amazing meal. The table wears its autumnal colors, and a bountiful feast awaits us. In many homes, before the eating commences, people traditionally give thanks for their blessings in the past year and express their hope for the days that lie ahead.

Such gratitude also extends to your physical body even if you weren’t aware of it. Every tasty morsel plays a role in your overall well-being, and thankfully many a dish overflows with healthy skin-loving components. If fighting free radicals is the key to skincare success, then your holiday table has you covered. This Thanksgiving take a moment to show your skin some love by picking foods that will serve you well and support your inner and outer being.

Turkey – For many people, the holiday turkey is the centerpiece of the day, but did you know that it offers wonderful skin benefits? The protein in turkey supports your body’s ability to create collagen, the key component when it comes to firm skin. To make the most of its benefits, grab the dark meat because it contains more vitamins than breast meat.

Pecans and Walnuts – Some of our favorite holiday meals include nuts, especially stuffing. Beyond their ability to provide you with protein that your skin needs in order to produce new cells, these nuts are also rich in Vitamins A and E as well as antioxidants and minerals, such as zinc, which has been successfully used to reduce acne breakouts because it increases Vitamin A production.

Cranberries – In a world filled with pollutants and irritants, it’s refreshing to know that foods like cranberries can fight off the free radicals that damage our skin. These tart red berries are loaded with Vitamin C, which not only helps support your immune system but also increases your skin’s collagen production. Evidence shows that they can reduce acne blemishes, too, thanks in part to the resveratrol (also present in red wine).

Green Beans – Your skin needs specific vitamins and minerals to fight off free radicals and UV damage while also producing collagen. Luckily, green beans contain both Vitamin C and manganese, so they do all three! Manganese comes primarily from food sources and is a trace mineral that is stored only in minimal quantities in the body, so choose fresh organic beans instead of canned to ensure your skin receives the best nutrients possible.

Sweet Potatoes – You already know that sweet potatoes are healthier than russets, but when it comes to nutrient density, they cross the finish line miles ahead of the rest. Not only do they contain Vitamin A, which encourages skin to produce new cells, they’re also rich in beta-carotene (as are carrots) and Vitamin C. That means fresher looking, healthy skin is just bites away.

Pumpkin – If your skin looks a little lackluster, chances are you have a shortage of Vitamin A, which is necessary for your skin to slough off dead cells and produce new ones. Never fear…pumpkin is here! This is a skincare powerhouse. Just like sweet potatoes, pumpkin contains beta-carotene and Vitamin A. But if you aren’t a fan of pumpkin pie, you can also use pumpkin in a DIY treatment mask to soften skin and soothe irritation thanks to its alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).

As you prepare for your holiday, remember that your dinner table contains everything you need to celebrate what you’re thankful for and to show yourself a little gratitude simultaneously. And every bite prepared with love holds the power to make your journey on this earth one filled with possibilities.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Cococare!