7 Foods That Fight the Effects of Winter

What's in it: Natural antioxidants and humectants

Why you need it: In the cold winter months when circulation is key, look no further than honey. Applying this sticky sweetener to your skin actually increases blood flow and keeps skin soft, thanks to honey's antioxidants and natural humectant properties.

To reap honey's benefits, apply it straight to skin, leave on for 10-20 minutes, and rinse. For a facial treatment, take a spoonful and apply a thin layer to a clean face, leave on for 30 minutes, and rinse.

Also try: Mix with a handful of sugar and use as a moisturizing exfoliant

What's in it: Serotonin

Why you need it: Without enough sunlight, your body can get the blues. Whole grain carbohydrates, like oatmeal and other whole grain cereals, keep the levels of feel-good hormone serotonin up, and packs a bunch of fiber to boot. Unlike refined carbs, like white bread and sweets, blood sugar levels wont spike and crash.

Also try: A sweet potato or whole-grain toast

What's in it: Omega-3 fatty acids

Why you need it: Cold air outside plus blasting heat indoors can easily dry out winter skin. It's smart to moisturize skin from the outside and the inside by incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, which strengthen the skin cell membranes, boosting moisture levels in skin and giving skin a glow. Keep in mind that while packed with vitamins and antioxidants, walnuts also high in calories so stick to a 1.5 ounce portion size (about 20 walnut halves).

Also try: Flaxseed or olive oil

What's in it: Lactic acid

Why you need it: Cleopatra had the right idea — bathing in milk does wonders for the skin. Milk contains lactic acid which does double duty: It manages to exfoliate skin naturally without drying it out. Just add about two to four cups to a warm bath, have a soak, and enjoy.

Also try: Drink it! Most milk is fortified with vitamin D which we lack in winter months.

What's in it: H₂O

Why you need it: While many of us reach for the water bottle in warmer months, the importance of drinking water in colder months cant be stressed enough. With the lower temperatures and increase in winds, the air outside gets drier, and with the heat on high, indoor air does too, increasing the chance for dehydration. Aim for at least one liter per day!

Also try: Herbal tea

What's in it: Vitamins A, B12 and D —plus Omega-3 fatty acids

Why you need it: Oily fish like tuna and salmon have healthy fat, a nutrient that protects all cells, including skin cells, keeping your outer layer soft and supple. Packed with vitamins A, B12 and D, it's also an excellent source of protein (preventing the risk of low blood sugar), and new research studies suggest it may lessen the risk of stroke.

Also try: Mackerel and sardines

What's in it: Allicin

Why you need it: A natural chemical in garlic, in studies allicin has been shown to stimulate white blood cell production, fighting off infections and warding off colds and flu viruses. On top of its antibacterial properties, garlic also contains selenium, a trace mineral (which me must get from food) that aid in antioxidant creation and may prevent certain cancers. Tip: eat garlic raw as much as possible for maximum health benefits.

Also try: Onions