The age-old adage "you are what you eat" is especially true when it comes to your skin. The largest organ, your skin responds quickly to the quality of nourishment that you give your body. Your skin reflects your general internal health, and can be a bellwether for a handful of very serious diseases and some less serious problems like hormonal imbalance. Foods that cause inflammation like processed convenience foods, especially those that contain large amounts of sugar, are particularly bad for your skin. Drinking alcohol in excess can encourage adult acne, dry skin, or even topical yeast infections that cause dandruff. Luckily, the opposite is also true and you can heal unhealthy skin with healthy food.
A popular way to heal damaged skin is with topical lotions, creams, salves, or even prescription medicines that may have unwanted side effects. It's also true that you can heal your skin from the inside out by eating whole foods that contain key nutrients. Eating healthy foods that also have a positive impact on your skin has no down side. When you reduce inflammation in your body, your risk of chronic disease decreases and you are more likely to avoid obesity-related diseases.Using food as medicine has no negative side effects like pharmaceutical remedies might so it is the perfect place to start when you are seeking to make some basic changes. There are certain vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are directly linked to skin health. Vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, as well as selenium, zinc, copper, antioxidants and flavonoids improve the elasticity and appearance of your skin. Some people choose to take supplements, but the most effective way to increase your intake of these vitamins and minerals is through a diet of whole, natural foods.
