I recently read an article about the best foods to eat after you get a tattoo. It’s not something I’d ever put too much thought into before getting any of my tattoos.

From the first couple of tattoo experiences I had, I quickly decided that it was best to arm myself with a bottle of Lucozade during the tattoo process (even though I absolutely hate it). Before any new tattoos, I’d try and eat a big meal, something carby and substantial. If I didn’t have time for this, I’d at least go and buy a bar of chocolate to ensure I had enough sugar in me to get through the tattoo (although I think this was more of a comfort thing!). 

Making sure I didn’t get tattooed on an empty stomach seemed like the logical thing for me to do, but I hadn’t ever considered what I should be eating after being tattooed. I never knew the importance of eating the right kind of foods post-tattoo until now.

The process of being tattooed is quite often a painstaking experience that can leave you feeling rather weak and unwell afterwards. From personal experience after a couple of my larger tattoos, I’ve felt a bit nauseous and shivery post-tattoo. It’s not surprising given the fact that the body is producing adrenaline at a much higher rate than usual and is enduring hours of pain. Looking after yourself during the healing stages of a tattoo is crucial, and it’s just as important as directly caring for the tattoo itself with the best tattoo cream.

So, let’s have a look at some of the best foods you can eat before and after the tattoo process to keep your body healthy and give you the necessary vitamins and antioxidants that you need to boost your immune system!

Oranges:  Packed with vitamin C, oranges are one of the best foods you can eat after your tattoo, as they contain the essential vitamins that aid in producing new proteins for the skin and scar tissue.

Salmon: Salmon isn’t something that’s favoured by everyone (I absolutely love seafood, but I’ve never liked salmon so won’t be eating this myself). For tattoo lovers who enjoy eating salmon, it’s the perfect source of Omega-3, which helps reduce inflammation and swelling, and in turn helps with the recovery process of your tattoo.

Garlic: Known for its medicinal properties, Garlic has been a go-to food for thousands of years for those wanting to boost their immune system and help fight infection. It also helps to prevent colds and boosts your energy. Perfect!

Pomegranate: One of my favourite fruits, pomegranate is a superfood that contains vitamin A and C, and many other antioxidants that help to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation.

Cocoa: This one made me super happy!! Yes, chocolate is good for you – but apparently, it’s dark chocolate that’s a powerful source of antioxidants.  Using cocoa-butter on the skin massively helps your tattoo throughout the healing process. It's one of the best tattoo creams you can use for the upkeep of your tattoo and for your skin in general – (so for me, logic dictates that eating tonnes of chocolate is most definitely in my best interest!)

Blueberries: Blueberries are the superfood of the fruit and veg world – with more antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable.  The antioxidants help to heal damaged cells, which is really important during the healing stages of a tattoo. 

Broccoli:  Similarly to oranges, broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C and contains antioxidants that are good for your heart.

Last but not least, drink plenty of water! Your body becomes dehydrated during the tattoo process, so it’s extremely important to rehydrate.

Next time I get tattooed, I'll definitely be stocking my fridge with these healthy products and making sure my body gets all the right nutrients it needs to heal the skin and keep me as energised as possible!  If you have any tips for the tattoo healing process, or if there's any foods that you swear by for keeping your body healthy after a heavy tattoo session, then I'd love to hear about it!  Drop us a comment below. 

Love Toni...

Blog & Image credits: 

https://inkluded.co.uk/2017/01/25/8-foods-help-new-healing-tattoo/

https://www.tattoodo.com/a/2016/10/6-foods-to-help-heal-your-tattoo/

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