Diet & Skin Health

What is Healthy Skin?

The primary function of the skin is to provide the body a barrier from potential outside dangers. Some of these outside dangers includes unsafe UV rays, bacteria and dirt. Therefore, healthy skin is skin that has the ability to properly function while responding to challenges that could compromise its structure and function.

Organs of Elimination

Organs of elimination are responsible for removing waste and toxins from the body. Along with the lungs, lymphatic system, bowel, colon, liver and the kidneys, skin is another organ of elimination. Malfunctions of the organs of elimination will often result in skin disturbances. Healthy skin is a symptom of properly functioning organs of elimination. One of the best ways of optimizing the organs of elimination is a balanced diet.

Antioxidants & Skin Health

Oxidation occurs when oxygen interacts with cells. Cell oxidation occurs naturally and frequently. A small percentage of these oxidized cells will become damaged in the process. These damaged oxidized cells are commonly called “free radicals.”  Free radicals aid the body in killing bacteria and new cancer cells. Adversely, free radicals can attack healthy skin cells leaving the skin with a sallow and uneven complexion. To counterbalance the negative effects of free radicals, the body uses antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, E, selenium and beta-carotene.  Some antioxidant rich foods include red beans, kidney beans, black beans, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, citrus fruits, berries, apples, green peppers and green tea.

Essential Fatty Acids & Skin Health

Good fats or essential fatty acids (EFA) are in every cell’s membrane. They are essential because they are necessary for healthy cell membranes. Healthy cell membranes interact well with other cells. EFA create passage ways for nutrients to go in and out of cells. Additionally, EFA transport waste out of cells. They also help cells retain water. The human body does not produce EFA. Therefore, EFA must be obtained through the diet. The dominant EFA are Omega 6 and Omega 3. The body requires a balance of both of these ETA. Omega 6s are well represented in the Western diet. Omega 3s are usually underrepresented in the Western diet. Therefore, a healthy balance of ETA typically requires adding Omega 3s rich foods to the diet. Some healthy sources of Omega 3s include salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, albacore tuna, walnuts and flaxseeds.

Conclusion

Following a diet that is good for overall healthy skin is essential for treating skin conditions. The Cookbook includes recipes that promotes healthy skin and prevents acne breakouts.


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Diet & Acne