Skin Inflammation & Nutrition
In collaboration with Nuzest.
What are some leading causes of inflammation in the skin?
Immune dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, allergic reactions and infections can lead to redness, swelling and heat in the skin, in other words – inflammation. As a result common conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and acne flare ups can occur.
Some causes include:
Environmental factors - Seasonal changes, pollution and exposure to pathogens.
Diet and lifestyle factors - Poor diet, malnutrition, lack exercise, excess sweating and stress.
Underlying conditions – Allergies, autoimmune responses and chronic disease.
Why should this be treated internally as well as with topical skincare?
To support our skin’s health both our immune and endocrine systems (hormone control centre) rely on nutrients from a variety of wholefoods. Without these nutrients, our immune system is left defenceless and our hormones, not so happy!
Additionally, a diet high in inflammatory foods such as saturated and trans fats may cause further inflammation in the skin. Combine this with some endocrine disrupters found in plastic, lining of metal cans, detergents, flame retardants, food, cosmetics, and pesticides, you’ve got yourself an inflammatory recipe of disaster. For these reasons it is important to treat skin inflammation internally and externally, with diet, good skincare and limited exposure to toxins.
Why is it important for skin therapists/practitioners to educate their clients on the skin/gut health connection?
Clients are often told that good skin goes hand in hand with a good diet. But why? The gut microbiota communicates with the skin as one of the main regulators in the gut-skin axis. In this sense, our gut flora dictates the health of our skin.
Beneficial bacteria in our gut breaks down metabolites that are vital for the production of vitamin A, K, zinc and other nutrients essential for healthy, glowing skin. Our gut microbiome also protects against invasion of potential pathogens by strengthening skin cells. Within a disturbed gut microbiome, bacteria and metabolites can accumulate in the skin, resulting in inflammatory skin conditions. When our clients understand this, making diet and lifestyle changes becomes all the more easier.
What are some of the best foods to reduce inflammation with?
My go to anti-inflammatory foods:
Omega 3 rich foods - Salmon, sardines, avocado, olive oil and nuts and seeds.
Probiotic rich foods - Yoghurt, sauerkraut, pickles, miso, tempeh and kimchi.
Prebiotic rich foods - Dark leafy greens, wholegrains, unripe bananas, onions and garlic.
Enzymatic fruit - pineapple, mango and papaya.
