HOW GUT HEALTH AFFECTS THE HEALTH OF YOUR SKIN

Carrie Dennett offered important tip in Washington Post last evening on the need to maintain healthy guts.

Scientists looking for roots of chronic disease as well connection between nutrition and health, might find the answer in your gut, and what they are fed. One reason that the state of your intestinal ecosystem has a profound effect on your health is that one layer of cells is all that separates your immune system from the contents of your gut, and inflammation is our immune system’s main weapon against foreign invaders.

As she and other scientists point out, a healthy, balanced gut microbiota promotes a strong immune system and lower levels of chronic inflammation. An unhealthy microbiota has been linked to obesity, allergies, asthma and autoimmune disorders. 

Because everything we eat comes into contact with our microbiota, a diet high in refined, heavily processed foods will send our microbiota out of balance. The relationship between food and the microbiota is a two-way street: The food we eat affects the composition of our microbiota, and the composition of our microbiota affects how we digest and absorb our food.

It is therefore advisable to choose  a plant-based diet with lots of fiber and regular consumption of fermented foods that nourish and stimulate beneficial bacteria, which over time can shift the balance of your microbiota in a healthier direction. Although many plant foods contain fermentable, prebiotic fiber, some of the richest sources are : artichokes, asparagus, bananas, plantains, barley, rye, wheat, alliums (garlic, leeks, onion), brassicas (broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts), jicama, lentils, chickpeas, red beans and soy products.

From the point of health of skin, Herbally Radiant has also been promoting organic diet and skin care products made out of natural organic ingredients. All Herbally Radiant products are, therefore, made with USDA certified organic ingredients.  These are most skin-friendly and help maintain the elasticity of skin, prevent premature aging signs and rejuvenate skin cells. We  also advise antioxidant rich foods that fight disease and premature aging by reducing inflammation, latter is the leading cause of wrinkle formation. Some of the best sources of antioxidants are : Blueberries, Pomegranates, Acai berries, Goji berries, Spinach, Raspberries, Nuts, Seeds, Purple grapes, green tea, etc.

Free radicals form in our bodies and cause major damage to our cell structures. The different nutrient-rich foods we eat neutralize them.  In order to fight off the different kinds of free radicals, you need to consume the widest variety of antioxidants.

Of course, adequate drinking of water to keep skin well hydrated and keeping skin well moisturized and nourished with healthy nutrients are the usual essential steps for a supple and revitalized skin.