Winter is upon us, and if you're like me, my skin will suffer a bit. It'll get dry and cold, my skin will lack moisture and glow, I'll look dehydrated, fine lines will be more apparent, my makeup won't go on as smooth and the list goes on. I know, it sounds a bit dramatic, but this holds true for me and many of my friends and family. One more reason the skin will lack a healthy glow is what's going on internally. Our skin is the finger print of what is going on inside our body. Skin conditions from psoriasis, acne, aging, inflammation and the list goes on are all manifestations of your body's nutritional needs.
Recent research has shown that the skin reacts particularly well to certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which nourish the skin and body in many levels.
The following nutrients are among the very best to consume for healthy, young-looking skin:
Silica:Silica is a trace mineral that strengthens the body's connective tissues - muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments, nails, cartilage, and bone - and is vital for healthy skin. Silica deficiency can result in reduced skin elasticity and can hamper the body's ability to heal wounds. Food sources of silica include leeks, green beans, garbanzo beans, strawberries, cucumber, mango, celery, asparagus and rhubarb.
Zinc: The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell.
Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.
The typical American diet is overabundant in omega-6 fatty acids found in baked goods and grains, and lacking in omega-3s, found in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and safflower oil. Simply balancing the intake of omega-3s with omega-6s can result in smoother, younger-looking skin. EFAs are also available in supplement form - such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil - and are effective at treating a wide range of disorders, from depression and cancer to arthritis and heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 oils flax seeds and, for non-vegetarians, wild-harvested fish oils.
Zinc: The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell.
Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.
The typical American diet is overabundant in omega-6 fatty acids found in baked goods and grains, and lacking in omega-3s, found in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and safflower oil. Simply balancing the intake of omega-3s with omega-6s can result in smoother, younger-looking skin. EFAs are also available in supplement form - such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil - and are effective at treating a wide range of disorders, from depression and cancer to arthritis and heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 oils flax seeds and, for non-vegetarians, wild-harvested fish oils.
We as a family are big fans of Omega Fatty Acids. LOVE THEM. Keep in mind, not all supplements are made the same or created equal. Most importantly the opinions stated here are for informational purposes and do not constitute medical treatment or advice. Consult with your doctor for specific health care issues. Our family consults with Nutritionist Samantha Grant. She has great advice on the best vitamins to take for your specific needs through various testing.
Do a little research on specific vitamins or minerals your heard about or a condition you been thinking of. Begin by being your own health advocate than either schedule a phone consultation with Samantha or ask your friends and family for referral. I love word of mouth tips!
Much health to you all!
Karina
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