Times of India Online

 A daily glass of orange juice can help improve your skin, hair and nails, say a panel of health and beauty experts.

They attribute the benefits to the vitamin C, potassium and folic acid it contains. Vitamin C is essential in the production of collagen, along with super nutrient Lutein.

Its yellow pigment is linked to reducing sun-induced skin damage and is believed to improve elasticity of the skin.

A 200ml glass of orange typically contains 60mg vitamin C and equates to 100 per cent of an adult's recommended daily amount.

"The adage of 'you are what you eat' is not a new one but science has lagged behind in determining the effect nutrition has on our skin, hair and nails," the Mirror quoted nutritionist Amanda Ursell as saying.

"Beauty experts are starting to see the benefits of a glass of this nutrient packed product, realising it isn't just what you put on your body but what you put into it too," she added.

The research was undertaken with 200 beauty industry workers who are members of CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women).

Two thirds of beauty professionals (65 per cent) said they recommend clients to drink a glass a day as part of their current beauty routine.

Susan Mahy, board director at Cosmetic Executive Women UK, said: "The essential nutrients you need for healthy skin, hair and nails are most beneficial when ingested as part of your diet.

"Our panel of executive women in the cosmetic, fragrance and hairdressing industries concluded that they have a direct effect on the skin," Mahy added.