Does what you eat have an effect on your skin. Although there are no studies directly proving that certain foods will cause or prevent acne, if a survey was given to dermatologists asking this exact question, their response would be ‘Diet plays a role in skin care’ and that what you put in your mouth will have a positive or negative effect on your skin.’
Natural health care professionals would say that food plays a significant role in the area of skin care and acne. The skin is continuously under construction and it uses the vitamins and minerals found in food to repair and rebuild cells. The other components to healthy skin are sleep quality, stress, hormones.
Foods for Healthy Looking Skin
Diets that are rich in whole foods especially fruits and vegetables are good for you as well as your skin. They contain an array of vitmains, minerals and antioxidants that appear to reduce inflammation and decrease the probability of breakouts.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is found in green leafy vegetables, broccoli, carrots, apples, salmon and is especially good as it regulates the skin cycle. Vitamin A is the main ingredient of Accutane which is a prescription acne medication.
Zinc
Zinc has been shown to be important for skin health. It is found in Brazil nuts, turkey, wheat germ, almonds.
Vitamin E and C
These important skin vitamins have a very positive effect on skin health. They are both part of skin rejuvenation. Vitamin C is a vital component of collagen. Sources of vitamin C include oranges, kiwi, apples, paw paw, grapefruit, brocolloi, tomatoes. Sources of vitamin E include sweet potatoes, nuts and seeds, olive oil, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, avocadoes.
Selenium
Selenium is a potent antioxidant and can protect the skin from free radical damage. Sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, flaxseed oil, almonds, salmon, sardines.
Water
Water is important for overall health. It helps hydrate your body including your skin cells. Adequate hydration supports the flushing out of acne causing toxins.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are important for prevention of inflammation that may led to skin problems. Omegs 3 fatty acids are found in cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, flaxseed oil, nuts and seeds.
