Healthy, glowing skin is a goal many of us strive for and is an indication of inner health. Our friends at DR.VEGAN® explain the link between the gut and skin, known as the gut-skin axis, how looking after the gut is the first place to start for healthy, glowing skin, and the best foods and supplements to help naturally fuel healthy, glowing skin from within.
The skin is the largest organ in the body and helps provide physical, chemical as well as anti-microbial defence for the body. The connection between the gut and brain (the gut-brain axis) is well-known, but the gut also impacts other organs and systems, especially the skin. The skin reflects what is happening within the body and can indicate poor gut health and an imbalance in the gut microbiome.
Stress, digestive problems and inflammation are some factors which can impact the gut by breaking down the protective anti-microbial barrier, impairing its function and making the skin vulnerable to inflammation. Irritated, inflamed or congested skin can indicate an imbalance in the gut. There are correlations between inflammatory skin conditions, including rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, acne and dermatitis, and imbalances in the gut microbiome.
Addressing, nourishing, feeding and healing the gut microbiome is important for healthier, glowing skin. A healthy, balanced and diverse diet will help provide the gut with a more diverse supply of nutrients.
Limit processed foods and opt for natural, whole foods, and include foods rich in fibre such as wholegrain cereals, nuts and seeds, legumes and beans. Reach for foods containing probiotics and prebiotics such as oats, bananas, apples, kiwis, onions, leeks, asparagus, and artichokes. Include fermented foods such as kimchi, kombucha, yoghurts, sauerkraut, tofu and tempeh. Stay hydrated - drinking plenty of water can help balance the gut and support healthier skin.
Supplements can also help support glowing skin and skin health. DR.VEGAN® Skin Saviour® is a science-led formula formulated by expert nutritionists to fuel the body’s natural collagen production and combat blemishes and acne for a clearer, glowing skin complexion and healthier ageing. Including clinically studied probiotics and prebiotics, with high strength Vitamin C and Hyaluronic, Zinc, Vitamin A and E, Selenium and a blend of powerful antioxidants - Grapeseed, Bilberry and Green Tea, to nourish the skin from within.
The best foods for healthy, glowing skin are also rich in omega 3, omega 3 can help with inflammatory skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis and eczema by helping reduce inflammation. Omega 3 also helps to protect the skin against age-related damage. But, as much as the body needs omega 3, particularly EPA and DHA, it cannot produce it, so we need to gain it in our diet or via a supplement like DR.VEGAN®’s high-strength Vegan Omega 3, which is sustainably and ethically sourced from algae, with 1,000mg Omega oil it provides the optimal dosage of 300mg DHA and 150mg EPA per serving.
Create your free Diet Profile on drvegan.com and discover what your diet may be missing to support your skin and gut health.
