Nutrition, Health & Your Skin

May 2010

By Amy Vendegrift - CES, CLS, Aesthetician

A person can have all the latest skin rejuvenation procedures done on their skin, but if that person is unhealthy on the inside their skin will most definitely show it on the outside. Get the biggest bang for your dollar by taking it a step further. Give your skin what it needs from the inside out.

Take, for example, the fact that excess insulin is the number one ager. The fastest way to improve your skin AND your health is to limit sugar intake. Because sugar is devoid of minerals, vitamins, fiber, and has such a deteriorating effect on the endocrine system, major researchers and major health organizations (American Dietetic Association and American Diabetic Association) agree that sugar consumption in America is 1 of 3 major causes of degenerative disease. When we eat sugar our immune systems slow down to a crawl. Refined carbohydrates will leach minerals and vitamins from your bones and other organs to metabolize them into the system, leaving you mineral deficient. Too much sugar causes depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, and inflammation just to name a few. We need the right balance of minerals and vitamins to maintain healthy skin.

Let's talk acne. Most people think acne is a skin issue but it isn't. It's an internal issue. Acne is a biochemical dysfunction. The first step in treating acne is to figure out what kind of acne you have: adrenal, androgenic, menopausal, liver, pre-menstrual, thyroid, or food allergy. If you've been diagnosed with Androgenic Acne, the most common, your best defense is a daily dose of zinc, vitamins B5 and B6, and essential fatty acids. These will control hormones and liquefy sebum. They will also inhibit DH Testosterone production, the cause of oily skin and clogged pores. Acne with dry skin is a little harder to treat, but is usually a thyroid issue. The recommended treatment would be zinc, essential fatty acids, Vitamin B5, and Vitamins A & C. Harmony Laser Center offers a variety of different cleanser, toners, masks and treatments, including the new Actinage Peel, to keep these things under control, but you will have better results if you treat from the inside as well.

Essential fatty acids are required for master hormones. Master hormones control inflammation, modify growth, and help maintain healthy skin. Taking the liquid form of an essential fatty acid blend (omega 3's, 6's and 9's) is more effective than capsules.

If you suffer from menstrual cramping, dry skin, or hot flashes you are most likely deficient in essential fatty acids.

Eczema is a digestive issue, not a skin issue, and the best treatment for this is essential fatty acids along with probiotics. Probiotics aid in digestion and as we age we need to replenish them. Probiotics are a big anti-ager because they help the body to produce vitamins A, B and K, fats, hormones, and antibiotics.

Osteoporosis is not a calcium problem, it is a collagen problem. When our bones lack collagen they become brittle and weak. We cannot grow collagen without good fats (essential fatty acids). Collagen is the number one protein in our skin, bones and body. Taking essential fatty acids will make your skin soft, supple, naturally moisturized, dewy, and will plump out those fine lines!

The best time to take your supplements is in the morning right after your workout. Your body, blood and cells are more receptive and ready to soak up all the nutrition you feed it then.

A body rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and beta glucans has its own natural sun protection factor. There are natural foods and supplements you can include in your diet to give yourself internal sun protection: Phytonutrients, Essential Fatty Acids, Green Tea, the minerals Zinc and Selenium, and, of course, vitamins A, C & E. Skin that is hydrated and healthy is less prone to sunburn and hyperpigmentation. Harmony Laser Center offers three great skincare lines based on vitamins, beta glucans, herbal and botanical extracts, and biogenic moisturizers and humectants to make your skin healthy and radiant.

People who suffer from insomnia usually look older than they are because rest is necessary for skin to rejuvenate itself and function at an optimal level. If you are taking prescription meds and/or have trouble sleeping even when you are tired you may be suffering from adrenal fatigue. Cut out all caffeine and sugar, and add DHEA and whey protein to your daily diet. Whey protein contains glutathione, a bio-antioxidant. Glutathione is the number one cancer fighter. DHEA is a naturally occurring hormone found in the body. As we age, the levels of DHEA begin to decline. It is most commonly used for anti-aging, muscle building, and mood support. Individuals that suffer from heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes usually have lower levels of DHEA. All of the above mentioned diseases will age your skin because of the stress they put on your body, making you look much older than you really are. Be proactive by using a nutritious skincare regimen along with your supplementation.

If you suffer from PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), chances are you don't get enough iodine or essential fatty acids. Cut out all insulin spiking foods and you will see dramatic results in your skin as well as all the other symptoms that come with PCOS.

Harmony Laser Center offers free consultations so take advantage and book your appointment today. Our estheticians can get you on your way to clearer, more youthful looking skin in no time. Protect your investment. By being healthy on the inside your skin care treatments will give you better results that last longer on the outside.

Sources:
1. Dr. Melissa Logue, Nutritionist, Chiropractor, Naturopath, Accupuncturist. Windsong Wellness, Fort Collins, Colorado
2. Ben Fuchs, R. Ph., Rocky Mountain Labs, Boulder, Colorado

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