Basics of Skin Care

Nutrition:

If the skin is to function efficiently, the skin must be cared for both internally and externally.

Internally, a nutritionally balanced diet is vital to the heath and appearance of the skin. A number of skin allergies and disorders are in part of the result of a poorly balanced diet.

Foods contain the chemical substances we need for health and growth, the nutrients: a healthy diet contains all the essential nutrients. The nutrients are carried to the skin in the blood, where they nourish the cells in the processes of growth and repair.

There are Six principal groups of nutrients.

Carbohydrates:

Carbohydrates provide energy quickly. They are either simple sugars or starches that the body can turn into simple sugars.

Food sources: Carbohydrates are found in fruits, vegetables, milk, grains and honey.

Fats:

Fats provide a concentrated source of energy, and are also used in carrying certain vitamins (see below) around the body. Fat is stored in the body around organs and muscles and under the skin. However, if too much fat is deposited under the skin, the elastic fibers there may be damaged by the expansion of the “adipose” tissue. Fat is also used in the formation of sebum, the skin’s natural lubricant.

Food Source: Although this is not always evident, fats are present in almost all foods, from plants and from animals.

Proteins:

Proteins provide material for the growth and repair of the body tissue, and are also a source of energy. Severe protein deficiency in children gives the skin a yellowish appearance, know as Jaundice.

Food Source: Proteins are found in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, grains and nuts.

Minerals:

Minerals provide materials for growth and repair and for regulation of the body processes. The major minerals are calcium, iron, phosphorus, sulphur, sodium, potassium, chlorine and magnesium. Of these, the most important to the skin is iron. A pale, dry skin may indicate Anemia, caused by a shortage of Iron.

Food Source: Fruit and vegetable:  Liver, egg yolks and green vegetables.

Water:

Water forms about two-third of the body’s weight, and is an important component both inside and outside the body cells. At least one liter of water should be drunk every day to avoid dehydration of the body and the skin.

Food Source: Water is also constituent of many foods, including fruits and vegetables.

Fiber:

Fiber is not broken down into nutrients, but is very important for effective digestion.

Food source: Fiber is found in fruits, vegetables and cereals.  

Vitamins:

Vitamins are also very essential for the human body. For detailed information about the requirements of vitamins for your skin please visit the following post. 

Essential Vitamins for Healthy Skin