Skin Deep

Food allergens and skin

Clinical studies indicate that food allergies may play a role in exacerbating eczema in some people. Eggs, nuts, soy, gluten, and dairy are foods that are commonly linked to flare-ups even in those who are not allergic to them. A qualified nutritionist can help identify potential food triggers.

Gut health and skin

Prebiotics and probiotics can be incorporated daily to bring good bacteria back into the gut and create a synergistic effect. Probiotics found in cultured products are live bacteria that help boost your immune system and fight off bad bacteria. Prebiotics found in certain fruits, vegetables and legumes, support digestive health by feeding the good bacteria.

Low Glycemic Foods and skin

A high glycemic diet has been shown to increase insulin release and can worsen acne. Shifting your diet to include high fibre, low glycemic foods can improve glycemic control and acne management.

Omega-3 Fats and skin

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to decrease inflammation. There is evidence that adequate consumption of omega-3 fats and fish oil is associated with an improvement in overall acne severity, especially for individuals with moderate to severe acne. Foods high in omega-3s like salmon, flaxseed and walnuts are important to include in your diet

Zinc, antioxidants and skin

Zinc levels are important in managing both acne and eczema. Low levels of the essential fat-soluble antioxidants vitamins A and E are linked to severe cases of acne and eczema, and vitamin C plays a role in maintaining skin health. Turmeric contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory agent which acts synergistically with several antibiotics to inhibit the growth of some skin bacteria. Your diet should include adequate daily zinc and antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, beef, oats, turmeric, and coconut yogurt.

Collagen and skin

Collagen is produced in the inner layer of the skin, the dermis, by cells called dermal fibroblasts.  It is synthesised primarily from the amino acids glycine, proline and hydroxyproline.  Active individuals in particular need adequate protein intake since collagen turnover significantly increases following intense exercise.

Collagen’s main function is to provide mechanical strength and structure to skin, bone, and other tissues like tendons, muscle, cartilage, blood vessels, intervertebral discs and even the cornea in the eye.

Normal growth and development are dependent on the proper assembly of collagens.  Collagen levels naturally start to decline from the age of 18 and decrease at a rate of around 1% each year after the age of 40, up to 75% by the age of 80!  Intense sporting activity can accelerate the rate of collagen loss, but other factors such as oxidative stress, nutrient deficiencies, alcohol, smoking and hormone fluctuations can also contribute to the decline.

You can support your body’s natural collagen production with collagen supplements.