A Holistic Approach To Healthy, Glowing Skin

1. Inflammation is behind many skin problems from acne to psoriasis. Whole fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, apples, and leafy greens that are high in antioxidants and polyphenols help reduce inflammation and promote clear skin. 

• Tip: Make green smoothies and salads staples in your diet. Both are easy ways to pack in a lot of leafy greens and fruits/vegetables!

2. Omega-3’s are also great for reducing inflammation as they inhibit the enzyme that produces pro-inflammatory prostaglandin hormones. 

• Tip: Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, sardines, and salmon.

3. Acne often occurs when pores get blocked by a mixture of oil and dead skin, which prevents toxins from escaping. Dandelion is a natural diuretic and detoxifier and therefore, can be helpful in facilitating the elimination of these toxic substances.

• Tip: Sip on some dandelion root tea. 

4. Both the skin and gut microbiome play a major role in regulating the immune system. When there are imbalances in the microbiome, the immune response becomes altered, which promotes the development of a variety of skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, dandruff, and even skin cancer.  

• Tip: Eat prebiotic and probiotic foods. Some examples of prebiotic foods include asparagus, leeks, Jerusalem artichokes, apples, carrots, and oats. Some examples of probiotic foods include sauerkraut, kimchi, coconut yogurt, and kombucha. Also, try to limit refined carbohydrates, which are the preferred food source for many bad bacteria that cause imbalances in the gut microbiome. 

5. Studies have shown that there is a strong connection between our emotions, our gut, and our skin. When we experience psychological stressors, gut leakiness is heightened, which results in systemic inflammation. Increased inflammation is a major underlying cause of many skin issues.

• Tip: Set aside time each day to meditate. Just a few minutes of meditation a day has been shown to greatly reduce stress and put the body and mind into a relaxed state.