Beauty Detox: Wrinkle Fighting Sweet Potatoes

We love the vibrancy of orange, and it's been named the color of 2012. But did you know that foods of the same hue can help slow down the aging process and provide you with important vitamins? These vegetables—including carrots and oranges—are high in beta carotene (it's what gives them their color), which is one of the highest forms of vitamin A. Celebrity nutritionist Kimberly Snyder's recipe for Italian style sweet potatoes is a great way to get your fill of the vitamin. "Sweet potatoes also contain carotenoids, which act as powerful anti-aging ingredients," says Kim. Carotenoids can only be absorbed through food, and also help prevent heart disease. "They are also high in vitamins B6 and C—both of which accelerate collagen production to maintain your skin’s elasticity," explains Kim. "Plus, they're full of magnesium and iron, which helps maintain a glowing, beautiful complexion."

Italian Style Sweet Potato

Ingredients:

1. 2 pounds organic sweet potatoes, cut into 2-inch chunks
2. 2 Tbsp olive oil
3. 2/3 Tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
4. 1/2 Tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
5. Cayenne pepper, to taste (optional)
6. ½ tsp Celtic sea salt

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toss the cubed potatoes with the olive oil, oregano, rosemary, cayenne pepper, and sea salt in a glass baking dish. Bake in the oven for around 1½ hours, or until the cubes are cooked through and crispy on the outside. While baking, check occasionally and gently stir as needed.

 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.