Beauty Detox: Summer Skin Saver

If you thought algae and seaweed were only good for sushi, think again. Different algae and marine botanicals aren't just used in skin care products (or your California roll!). They’re known for their incredible anti-aging and skin-perfecting powers, and they do wonders for your insides, too! In particular: Spirulina. A member of the blue-green algae family, spirulina is extremely high in iron, vitamin B12, and magnesium—all of which work to give you more energy and prevent fatigue, build strong bones, regulate your hormones, and strengthen your immune system. The algae (which you buy in powdered form) is also an excellent detoxifier, and when your insides glow, your skin does too. Celebrity nutritionist Kimberly Snyder's recipe for spirulina-spinach salad packs a powerful punch by combining spirulina with spinach and avocado—the perfect side to add to your summer menu. "Spirulina is also high in protein and beta-carotenes," explains Kim. So you're not only filling your body with healthy vitamins and nutrients, the protein value ensures you won't be left feeling hungry afterwards!

Spirulina-Spinach Salad

INGREDIENTS

• Large bowl baby spinach leaves
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 2 handfuls adzuki (small nutty flavored beans that originated in China and are available in health food stores) or lentil sprouts
• 1/2 tsp spirulina powder, to start
• Splash of olive oil
• High quality sea salt, to taste

DIRECTIONS

Be sure to wash and dry the spinach very thoroughly—soggy spinach will not work for this salad! Add the spinach to a large bowl and toss in the tomato, avocado and sprouts. In a separate, smaller bowl, mix together 1/2 teaspoon of spirulina powder, a splash of olive oil and a bit of salt, adding more spirulina if you prefer. Drizzle the dressing over the spinach, avocado and sprouts, and dive in!

 Kimberly Snyder is a Los Angeles-based celebrity nutritionist and author of The Beauty Detox Solution. She began her work after journeying through 50 countries and six continents, learning about health and beauty from many different cultures. With a philosophy rooted in the belief that outer beauty is a reflection of inner health, Kim now works with clients such as Hilary Duff, Olivia Wilde, and Drew Barrymore. Get lots of health and beauty tips by following her on Twitter at @kimsbeautydetox.