Great skin starts from within

Long gone are the days of being advised to drink water and use a St.Ives scrub to treat acne. In the last few years there has been discord over the relationship between gut health and skin conditions.

If you’re one of those people who have tried all the skincare remedies like tea tree, witch hazel or retinoids and you’re still battling against stubborn skin issues like acne. Your gut health may be worth checking.

Researchers on the Gut-Skin Axis  article looked into the relationship between gut health and skin conditions. They found that altercations in the gut microbiome have been linked to skin issues, whilst diet and lifestyle can cause imbalances which could affect the skin barrier.

A solution:

Many solutions are focused on healing your gut from within because let's be real, you are what you eat. Various recipes for a powerhouse smoothie have been going viral across social media platforms which have ingredients that could transform your skin.

Some of the key players in this green juice are:

Cucumbers: They contain antioxidants which support gut health by reducing inflammation. Cucumber skin is a good source of fibre, which can help to regulate digestion. They are high in water and provide good hydration which helps the gut to function optimally. 

Pineapples: They are rich in the enzyme bromelain which helps to break down proteins in the digestive system, improving absorption and reducing inflammation. They are also high in vitamin C which is good for a healthy immune system.

Spinach: It is high in antioxidants which helps to fight against bacteria and viruses. The sugar it contains helps the good bacteria in the stomach to create a protective layer and limits the bad bacteria in the gut. It can directly target the skin as it has vitamin A which helps with hydration retention. 

Kiwi: They contain the digestive enzyme actinidin which helps to break down protein rich foods. This can help with bloating and gas issues. They have high levels of vitamin C and E which reduce inflammation and aid a healthy gut lining. 

Fitness content creator @martashealthyhustle said: “I started incorporating this green juice into my daily routine and it’s been the healthiest and most convenient way to fuel my body.”

She said it has helped with sluggishness and low energy too, so not only do these ingredients help with gut and skin health, it can also improve general mental wellness.

Edited by: Sasha Spencer