We all know that the way we eat affects how we feel.  In fact, poor health is the strongest predictor of unhappiness, according to a 2006 Pew Research Center survey. However, we can also improve our already dashing good looks by eating right. And we’re not just talking about slimming down, either. A brighter smile, shinier hair, younger looks, and smoother skin can all be achieved by changing diet habits. So put down the chocolate bar and pick up a celery stick to start seeing the benefits of a healthy grocery list right in your mirror. Next time you’re in the grocery store pick up some of these items:

• For shiny hair: Certain foods, like salmon or chicken make your hair shinier and stronger. The omega-3s in salmon are what add some extra shine to your locks, while the protein in chicken helps to make your hair stronger.
• For smoother skin: If you want to smooth out rough or stressed skin, opt for foods that are rich in vitamin C, like oranges, tomatoes, strawberries, and broccoli.
• For younger looks: Aging before your time? Stock up on water-packed fruits and veggies, like watermelon and celery, which can keep your skin hydrated, smooth out wrinkles, and make you appear younger.
• For a whiter, healthier smile: As Dr. Timothy Chase, a 15-year veteran of cosmetic dentistry in New York City says, “White teeth and healthy gums can take 10 years off your appearance.” But, according to Dr. Chase, it’s not only professional dental products that do the whitening. “It seems certain fruits, vegetables and other foods can aid in your quest for whiter teeth. Apples, cauliflower, celery and carrots work to whiten because they function as an abrasive scrub for teeth. These foods are nature’s toothbrush.” Dr. Chase also recommends eating strawberries for the malic acid, which can whiten teeth, and avoiding staining foods, like red wine, tobacco, coffee, tea, and blueberries.

Keep in mind to get the right amount of all of your beauty superfoods for an optimal grocery list. The USDA recommends you eat 3-5 servings of veggies, 2-4 servings of fruits, 6-11 servings of grains, 2-3 servings of meat and beans, and 2-3 servings of milk products or the appropriate milk replacement. One serving of fruit could include one orange (for smoother skin), while one serving of vegetables could include 1/2 cup of teeth-scrubbing carrots. Eating right and preparing a healthy grocery list is important to not only maintain a healthy weight, but also to make you look and feel better, in general. Wow! You look younger already.