Everyone knows someone who has been sick with COVID this summer. The new vaccine has been approved and should be easily available soon. Besides washing your hands, wearing a mask and eating healthy. Plan to be good to you and your neighbor and get the vaccine or booster.
Q As I get older, I am getting more concerned about looking younger and having well-nourished skin. Have you got any advice? — QT, Bethel
A In the quest for flawless skin, people often turn to an array of skincare products promising miraculous result. Adrianne Mitchell and Michael Denning, fourth-year medical students at the Brody School of Medicine, want you to imagine the key to clearer, smoother skin is not found in a fancy serum or expensive treatment, but rather in the aisles of your local grocery store.
They say the truth is, no matter if our skin color is black, brown, olive or white, what we eat plays a pivotal role in the health and appearance of our skin, offering a natural and sustainable approach to skincare. Adrianne hopes to be a dermatologist and Michael is studying to be a pediatric physician. Here is what they want you to know.
Diet is undeniably one of the cornerstones of maintaining healthy skin. Our skin reflects our internal health, and the nutrients we consume directly impact its condition.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, act as our skin’s first line of defense against free radicals, preventing oxidative damage and premature aging.
Vitamin C, in particular, is essential for collagen production and skin repair, promoting a youthful and radiant complexion. Meanwhile, vitamin E helps to shield the skin from oxidative stress, preserving its elasticity and suppleness over time.
Moreover, omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in plant sources like flaxseeds and walnuts, possess anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate acne and other inflammatory skin conditions. By reducing inflammation within the body, omega-3s help to calm irritated skin and promote a clear, blemish-free complexion.
Additionally, these healthy fats contribute to the skin’s natural barrier function, preventing moisture loss and maintaining optimal hydration levels for a plump and dewy appearance.
In addition to individual nutrients, our dietary patterns also significantly influence skin health. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining skin hydration and elasticity, preventing dryness and promoting a supple complexion. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps to flush out toxins from the body and supports optimal cellular function, resulting in a more radiant and youthful appearance. Furthermore, high-glycemic foods, such as refined sugars and white bread, can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores, exacerbating acne and other skin issues. By choosing nutrient-dense, fiber-rich foods that provide a steady release of energy, we can maintain stable blood sugar levels and support clear, healthy skin from the inside out.
Conversely, certain foods can exacerbate skin issues and compromise its health and appearance. High sugar intake can lead to the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which damage collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, contributing to premature aging and the formation of wrinkles.
To harness the power of nutrition for radiant skin, practical dietary tips can be implemented into our daily routines. Embracing a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins ensures a diverse intake of essential nutrients necessary for optimal skin health. Additionally, prioritizing hydration by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day and limiting consumption of sugary and processed foods can further support skin vibrancy and vitality.
These healthy diet strategies also offer the ability to maintain a healthy weight, lower the risk of several cancers, and assist in managing your blood sugars, cholesterol and blood pressure.
In conclusion, the path to radiant skin lies in the choices we make at the dinner table. By prioritizing nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fish, we protect our skin against aging and inflammation. Hydration and a well-versed diet further support clear, youthful skin. Conversely, avoiding sugary, processed, and dairy-laden foods helps maintain skin’s balance and vitality.
By nourishing our bodies from within, we unlock our skin’s natural radiance, revealing a complexion that exudes health and vibrancy. By nourishing our bodies with nutrient-rich foods and adopting healthy dietary habits, we can unlock our skin’s natural beauty potential from within, revealing a glowing complexion that radiates health and vitality.
Local News
Comments / 0