Plant-Centered Eating and Our Skin
Plant-based eating has been shown to improve a wide range of common skin conditions. If you are suffering with a skin ailment, as I was, I encourage you to do your own research and then consider moving toward a plant-centered diet. For me, the change has been nothing short of miraculous.
Eczema and Keratosis Pilaris - Since going fully plant-based, my eczema nearly gone, and I am free from hives, thickened skin, and keratosis pilaris. My skin not only looks so much better, but it is now soft and smooth to touch, and I am no longer plagued with chronic itching.
Acne - Published in 2017 in the international journal of molecular sciences, researchers concluded that “plant-based foods ...especially those rich in fiber and polyphenols, could provide a natural, low-risk intervention for acne vulgaris.” Improvement in acne was thought to be due primarily to the microbiome healing that occurs when eating a plant-based diet.
Rosacea - Similar improvement in rosacea can be seen when adopting a diet rich in plant fiber. Again, healing the gut microbiome is considered to be the underlying reason for skin improvement. "Diet may also impact rosacea via a gut-skin connection. While epidemiologic research supports this connection...patients may be advised on measures to promote a healthy gut microbiome, including the importance of a fiber-rich (prebiotic) diet." 2017, Journal of Dermatology, Practical and Conceptual.
Wrinkles - In addition to helping to heal common skin ailments, a plant-based diet can also help us to keep our youthful appearance. A 2020 review of 79 studies on the effects of whole-food plant-based (WFPB) eating on skin concluded, "A WFPB diet maximizes the antioxidant potential within our cells by providing essential vitamins... It also helps to eliminate harmful carcinogens and gerontotoxins within our bloodstream, which prevents cellular damage... Evidence obtained within this literature review supports a WFPB diet for preventing skin aging."
If you are struggling with a skin condition or you simply want to retain your youthful appearance, try eating more plants. You may be pleased with what you see.
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