The bestselling cookbook authors share their top foods for hydrated skin and muscle repair

Whether you’re a bone broth devotee or have flirted with spiralizing, Jasmine and Melissa Hemsley’s influence on what we eat can’t be denied. But the sisters – who last month opened their cafe in Selfridges London and are currently hosting their debut TV show, Eating Well With Hemsley + Hemsley – also know a thing or 19 about what foods to eat to give you a beauty advantage. “We look at things holistically, rather than eating one particular thing – otherwise you’re treating food like supplements,” explains Jasmine. “A varied diet of wholefoods is the answer to your health needs.” Here’s what they advise to add to your shopping list for beauty from the inside out.

Mung beans

“They’re a bit old fashioned, but are a highly absorbable protein, which is necessary for tissue repair and the construction of new tissue – especially with your hair, skin and eyes. We like adding flavour by making them into dahl or hummus.”

Ginger

“Ginger is full of antioxidants which help fight free-radical damage. Your skin is your biggest organ so it’s imperative to counterbalance the exposure to free radicals that comes with living in the city and to keep it properly hydrated. Keep ginger in the freezer, then grate into hot water and simmer before drinking warm.”

Mackerel

“This is packed with omega 3 fatty acids, which are great for skin. Smoked mackerel has a strong flavour so if you don’t like the taste buy filleted mackerel – many supermarkets sell bags of it frozen – and grill it simply.”

Watercress

“Super high in antioxidants, watercress is recommended before and after workouts because it’s good for muscle repair.”

Romaine lettuce

“This is especially good for people who are lazy about hydration as it has a really high water content. It’s also full of folate (the natural form of folic acid), which is important for tissue growth, cell development, and healthy brain development.”

Melissa and Jasmine Hemsley reveal their ultimate grocery list