Your gut health may not be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to skin care. However, your digestive system — particularly your gut microbiome — affects your overall health, including your skin. Discover the science behind the gut-skin axis and the best foods for skin and gut health.
The Gut-Skin Axis
It’s often said that the skin reflects what’s happening within the body, and this connection plays a role in this. Your gut is a complex colony that contains trillions of strains of microbes and bacteria, called the microbiome. Striking a balance between good and bad bacteria is essential, otherwise, you may experience inflammation and digestion problems. When it happens, signs may manifest on the skin, such as psoriasis, acne, dandruff and atopic dermatitis.
The close relationship between the gut and skin has been widely explored, as studies found that skin disorders often accompany gastrointestinal problems. This is why achieving a glowing complexion is more than just an elaborate skin care routine — it also involves having a healthy gut.
The Power of a Diverse Gut Flora
The tiny microorganisms in your intestines have a mighty role in your skin and overall health by keeping your immune system in check. Being imbalanced can cause inflammation due to several factors, mainly your dietary choices. However, lifestyle habits can also trigger it. One such habit is smoking tobacco, which can increase the risk of gallbladder illnesses, respiratory issues and heart conditions. Because tobacco toxins can age your organs prematurely, it makes sense that it’ll also affect your body’s largest organ.
The diversity of your gut flora supports good bacteria growth, stops bad microorganisms from spreading, improves digestion and boosts immune response. These benefits can help your body absorb essential vitamins and minerals vital for skin regeneration and repair.
This is also why having a healthy gut is essential, particularly during allergy season, when skin irritation and inflammation are prevalent, and during winter, when skin needs more protection. When your skin needs additional hydration, you can use a rich moisturizer like the Vegan Night Cream to keep it plump and healthy during harsh weather conditions. Pair it with a proper diet to achieve better skin results.
Best Foods for Skin and Gut Health
Improving gut health for the skin starts with proper nutrition. Consider adding the following foods to your diet.
- Yogurt: It’s one of the most common probiotic-rich foods. Yogurt helps ease lactose intolerance, tame tummy problems and improve digestion. Blend yogurt and your favorite fruit into a smoothie for a healthy drink.
- Miso soup: This Japanese soup contains fermented soybean paste that can help aid digestion and improve gut microbiota. You can also enjoy it when you have flaky or rough skin to get its hydration benefits. Serve it as your breakfast or use miso paste in dressings.
- Tempeh: This Indonesian treat contains a natural antibiotic that eliminates certain bacteria. It’s also high in protein, making it an excellent meat substitute. Add it to salads or stir-fries.
Do Prebiotics Help Your Skin?
Prebiotics feed the good bacteria living in your gut. Here are some prebiotic foods to incorporate into your diet:
- Leeks: These are rich in nutrients that help break down fat and promote better digestion. Add them to improve the flavor of soups and stews.
- Bananas: Unripe bananas contain resistant starch, which has prebiotic benefits. Enjoy them as is or add them to overnight oats.
Nourish Your Gut and Skin
A healthy gut is the foundation for glowing skin. Nourishing your body with a diet rich in gut-friendly nutrients and adopting healthy lifestyle habits enhances your skin’s appearance. Now that you understand the gut-skin connection, it’s time to prioritize achieving beautiful skin from within.
(photo: mike jones)
