5 Weird and Wonderful Things for Healthy Skin

PART ONE
1. Probiotics (topical and internal)
 
Our internal ecosystem supports our health in a vast amount of ways. We can now add healthy skin to the list. New research is starting to reveal just how beneficial probiotics can be to the health of our skin. When taken internally via fermented foods and probiotic supplements the probiotic organisms can help to heal an inflamed and leaky gut lining resulting in less inflammation in our skin. This is showing potential as treatment for conditions such as acne, rosacea and eczema.
Another exciting area of research is topical probiotics. The skin surface is also home to many beneficial bacteria that protect it and help to reduce inflammation. This external ecosystem can be disrupted by many factors in our harsh environment. Using probiotics topically can help balance the skin flora, reduce inflammation, fight acne bacteria directly and even potentially stimulate collagen production. This is a really exciting new area of research and I imagine that it will be the next big trend in skin care.
 
 
2. Sardines
This underrated and under-eaten super food deserves more attention especially when it comes to clear and healthy skin.  Sardines are packed with vitamins  and minerals notably the B vitamins, vitamin D a high amount of calcium, phosphorus and selenium. They are also a very high source of that wonderful omega 3 fat that we hear so much about.  All of these nutrients are vital to skin health and reducing inflammation that makes them a perfect skin food.
Some people find the flavor difficult. I usually just add them to a spicy fish cake recipe or mix them in with tuna salad. You can find some recipe ideas here.
 
 
3. Turmeric
That’s right, curry. Turmeric contains curcumin which is both antinflammatory and an antioxidant.   It can be used both internally as a food or supplement and topically as a paste, added to moisturizer or a face mask .
 
 
Stay tuned for part two where I discuss 2 more skin healing substances and provide a healing face mask recipe.