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You may have heard of the Mind and Gut connection, and how our digestive health is intrinsically linked with our mental health but you may not realise how important our skin is for our wellbeing.
When looking at gut health, the condition 'leaky gut' springs to mind as is a common ailment a lot of us suffer and don't even realise.
Leaky gut syndrome is a condition that is characterised by the lining of the intestinal wall becoming more permeable than it should be. That means not acting as the formidable barrier that it should. This causes toxins, undigested food particles, and other harmful substances to leak into the bloodstream, which can lead to a wide range of health problems. While leaky gut is typically associated with digestive issues, recent research has shown that it can also impact the health of the skin.
The skin is the largest organ in the body and plays a vital role in protecting us from environmental toxins, regulating body temperature, and supporting immune function. However, when the gut is leaky, it can compromise the health of the skin and lead to a variety of skin issues.
One of the primary ways in which leaky gut can impact skin health is through inflammation. When toxins and other harmful substances leak into the bloodstream, the body's immune system responds by releasing inflammatory cytokines. These cytokines can trigger a cascade of events that can lead to inflammation in the skin, causing issues such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. In addition to inflammation, leaky gut can also impact the balance of bacteria in the gut, which can have a direct impact on the health of the skin.
The gut contains trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiome. When this microbiome is disrupted, it can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, which can cause inflammation and other issues throughout the body, including the skin. The gut also plays a crucial role in detoxification. When the gut is leaky, toxins that would normally be eliminated through the digestive system can instead end up circulating throughout the body. This can lead to a buildup of toxins in the skin, causing issues such as acne, rashes, and other skin irritations.
So, what can be done to address leaky gut and support skin health?
Promoting Healthy Skin Through Good Gut Health and Clean Skincare
If you're struggling with skin issues, it's important to take steps to promote good gut health as well as . Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Eat more like our ancestors: A diet based on nourishing whole foods is key to promoting good gut health. Focus on eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and seed oils, which can contribute to inflammation in the gut. A good rule of thumb is if your great grandmother wouldn't recognise what you are eating as food, then give it a miss!
- Take Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to promote good gut health. They can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for promoting healthy skin. We know, you know. But it cannot be stressed enough. 2L of filtered water a day will make such a huge difference and will help to flush out toxins and keep the skin hydrated and supple.
- Consume prebiotics: Prebiotics are foods that help to nourish the good bacteria in the gut, promoting gut health and, in turn, healthier skin.
- Reduce stress: Chronic stress can trigger inflammation in the body, which can impact gut and skin health. Incorporating stress-reducing practices, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, can be helpful in reducing stress and promoting healthy skin.
- Use gentle, non-toxic skincare products: Many skincare products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both gut health and skin health. Using gentle, non-toxic skincare products like our sister brand Fierce Nature with tallow based and organic products can help to promote healthy skin
- Avoid fragrances: Fragrances can be irritating to the skin and can disrupt the natural balance of the skin's microbiome, try essential oils. Avoiding skincare products that contain fragrances can help to promote healthy skin.
- Practice good hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your face, can help to reduce the spread of harmful bacteria that can impact both gut and skin health.
Other supplements that may be beneficial for leaky gut and skin health include glutamine, which can help to repair the lining of the gut, and collagen, which can support skin elasticity and hydration. Certain herbs, such as licorice root and slippery elm, can also help to soothe inflammation in the gut and support overall gut health.
In addition to these interventions, it's important to address lifestyle factors that can impact gut and skin health. Chronic stress, for example, can worsen leaky gut and trigger inflammation in the body, leading to a variety of health issues, including skin issues. Incorporating stress-reducing practices, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing, can be helpful in reducing stress and supporting gut and skin health.
Leaky gut can have a significant impact on skin health and our skin can also absorb toxins which impact our gut. By addressing the underlying causes of leaky gut and supporting gut health through diet, supplements, natural and toxic free skincare and lifestyle interventions, it is possible to improve skin health and reduce the risk of skin issues. If you are experiencing skin issues or suspect that you may have leaky gut, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
If you're looking to move to non toxic and bio-available skincare, why not try our sister brand Fierce Nature, with a range of hair and beauty products made with our Organic and Grass Fed Tallow.
