Eat to beat common skin problems

Everyone has a favorite face-cream or treatment , but beautiful skin starts with nourishment from within. That nourishment can only come from a good diet.

A proper diet can prove as a game -changer. Once u make changes to your diet, don’t expect an overnight miracle. It takes six weeks for a new skin to emerge up to the surface , so the visible benefits from dietary changes will take just as long . For persistent skin conditions , talk your GP or consider seeing your dermatologist.

As if for now, here are some of the answers to commonly asked skin- related questions.

How can diet affect acne ?

Acne is caused by inflammation and infection of sebaceous glands of skin. Sebaceous glands of the skin are stimulated by hormones . To avoid acne-

• Cut back on saturated and hydrogenated and saturated fats in margarines and processed foods .
• Cut down on junk food as well as foods high in sugar, such as cakes and biscuits.
• Eat more raw vegetables , wholegrains , fresh fruits and fish.
• Try to include selenium rich foods , such as Brazil nuts , cashew nuts , fresh tuna , sunflower seeds , walnuts and wholemeal bread.

How can diet affect psoriasis ?

Psoriasis appears as red skin patches with silvery scales, most commonly on the elbows and knees. These patches are caused by rapid growth and proliferation of cells in the outer skin layers. Patches can be itchy and sore and in severe cases , skin may crack and bleed. Some people find outbreaks occur when they feel rundown. To avoid psoriasis-

• Avoid smoking and alcohol
• Essential fatty acids from fish-oil or cold pressed nut and seed oils are important to include in the diet.
• The diet should ideally be low in saturated fat and anti-inflammatory herbs such as turmeric , red pepper , ginger , cumin , fennel , rosemary and garlic.

How can diet affect eczema ?

Eczema is a skin condition that usually begins as patchy redness , often on the hands but can appear anywhere on the skin. Although there are many triggers , one of the most common is food sensitivity. To avoid Eczema-

• Avoid the intake of milk, eggs , cheese , nuts and food additives .
• Increase the amount of Omega-3 fats , zinc and vitamin E in diet to reduce the symptoms.