How Your Gut Health Affects Your Skin
Every cell in our bodies is interconnected, and as we become older, this becomes increasingly more apparent. Poor sleep causes dull skin, stress causes a weakened immune system, and the cycle continues. While you may believe that pampering your skin with cleansers and serums is enough to keep it clean, this isn't always the case. Our physical and emotional well-being heavily influences our skin. When your stomach is out of whack, for example, many other body processes suffer. Experts explain how gut health and skin health are related and what you can do to optimize your gut flora for better, healthier skin.
How does the gut-skin axis work?
According to nutritionists, the functioning of your gut microbiome is inextricably related to the health of your skin and is one of the key regulators of the gut-skin axis. The gut therefore plays an important role in skin cell turnover, repair of UV damage, hydration and wound healing.
How can an unhealthy gut ecosystem negatively impact our skin?
A sick stomach can affect a lot of systems but the skin is the most noticeable. Eczema, acne, dandruff and rosacea are worsened because of increased inflammation.
Why? Because poor gut health affects the generation of proinflammatory cytokines and cells that inhibit the immune system. The gut microbiota is also vital for nutrition absorption. Malabsorption may damage energy, vitality, immunological function, hair, skin and nails. Stress, processed meals, excessive sugar consumption, alcohol, and antibiotic abuse are all known to deplete beneficial gut flora and contribute to gut dysbiosis."
Can problems affecting the gut affect the skin as well?
If you have a gastrointestinal illness like celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you're already dealing with unpleasant symptoms. Unfortunately, some skin problems may also be caused by these disorders. These disorders are inflammatory. Several studies have linked inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to inflammatory skin illnesses.
What role do prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics play in the stomach and the skin?
Diet and lifestyle choices significantly influence the stomach, and stress management is critical. Stress kills our healthy gut microorganisms. Gluten, dairy, soy, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol are known to induce gut inflammation so you should limit these and eat more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables. Regular exercise and not smoking help. Stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises are beneficial.
Expert recommended products for a healthy gut.
Dr Speron recommends taking a Dr Speron’s vitamin C supplement – a minimum of 10g of collagen powder per day and a targeted probiotic.