Natural beauty comes from within and we now know that what we eat and specific food supplements can have a direct positive impact upon our skin health. Using the latest expensive skin cream will only get you so far – most nutrients are not effectively absorbed and utilised into the skin’s structure through topical application so we must eat well and select the right supplements if we want to protect and enhance our skin.
A study of different skin types and the protective effects of different foods on skin and sun exposure showed how a higher intake of vegetables, healthy oils, oily fish and legumes was associated with lower levels of skin damage. These foods are naturally rich in antioxidants, good quality proteins and essential fatty acids; all vital for glowing healthy skin.
Nutrients such as vitamin C, copper and zinc help maintain the collagen structure within the skin; collagen is the substance that plumps our skin up and makes it feel firm. The body’s production of collagen declines from our mid 30’s onwards which can lead to the appearance of the dreaded wrinkles. Higher intakes of vitamin C and fatty acids have been shown to reduce the appearance of lines and dryness. Vitamin C is best taken with bioflavonoids; these compounds occur together in nature and work synergistically in the body.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant vitamin that works in synergy with vitamin C to protect skin. Low levels of vitamin E and zinc have been found in acne sufferers, highlighting the importance of this nutrient for skin repair and healing. Supplementing with natural forms of vitamins, for example the d-alpha tocopherol form of vitamin E, means you are taking the nutrients as nature intended rather than synthetic chemical versions.
Astaxanthin, an antioxidant naturally present in krill oil, shows remarkable anti-ageing and antioxidant properties. Krill oil also provides highly absorbable omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, vitamins A, D and E – a really powerful combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrients to support skin health. Combine these with the benefits of lutein and zeaxanthin, phytonutrients found in high levels in spinach, kale, broccoli, yellow peppers and carrots, which have been shown to improve skin elasticity and hydration levels and you will have the best defences against wrinkles and ageing!
