HUMP DAY HEALTH HACK with @amysfitnessandnutrition
Every cell in our body renews every 2 years. So that means what we put in will go into building the person we become in 2 years’ time – quite literally. One very public display of our health is our skin. A standard modern diet can seriously contribute to crappy skin. Inflammation caused by unhealthy food can lead to acne, eczema, rashes, and more. With this in mind (and after a few people might be experiencing post-Easter breakouts) here are my top tips to feeling better about the skin you’re in.
1. GET A SWEAT ON
– when you exercise increased blood flow transfers heat from the core of the body to the skin. It helps to move and release toxins from your body. If you’re lazy and not quite on the exercise wagon just yet – sauna & steam rooms are a great option.
2. DUMP SUGAR
– sugar literally sticks to the amino acids (collagen & elastin) in our skin inhibiting their ability to do their job. It literally ages our skin and other organs. Start checking your sugar intake and talk to someone if you need help.
3. DUMP PROCESSED FOOD
– As previously mentioned processed food can trigger inflammation in the body. It has also been linked to autoimmune diseases, allergic reactions, psoriasis and more. Gluten and processed dairy are two to look out for as triggers.
4. FIX YOUR GUT
– your gut influences your skin far more than you may realise. A sluggish digestive system means that our detox processes aren’t working as they should. These toxins have to be released somewhere…If you have troubles with your gut, talk to your doctor or nutritionist about what could be causing your issues.
5. EAT FAT
– yeah that’s right. Dry, itchy, scaly, or flaky skin can signify a deficiency in fatty acids. Wild-caught fish (mackerel, salmon, sardines), flaxseeds & chia seeds are good sources of Omega-3 Fats which we tend to be deficient in.
6. GET OUT IN THE SUN
– for some Vitamin D - Did you know that a number of skin conditions can be helped with LED light treatment and some doctors even prescribe sunbeds to treat acne? I can make a huge difference. I prefer the natural approach and getting outdoors but some people might need more than this.
7. SLEEP
– rubbish sleep increases signs of aging. And in turn, a bad night’s sleep means we are more likely to reach for sugar the next day as a pick-me-up.
8. BANISH STRESS
– It’s all linked. Bad food affects our gut, which is connected to our brain and it shows on our skin… bugger. Emotional stress can also be a trigger for skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. Try and find a way to chill out to reduce stress and anxiety.