Tim Talks: Skin (Part Two)

?‘Choline, Choline, Choline Cho-li-i-ine …’?sang Dolly (almost).

The liver, the main organ for detoxification, plays a vital role in breaking down and eliminating toxins. Primarily, toxins are eliminated via the bowel. However, when in abundance, toxins are also eliminated via the skin and mucous membranes, and this is when problems occur. However, the essential nutrient, choline, also found in krill, supports the health and efficiency of the liver. A choline deficiency is directly linked to impaired liver function.

It is interesting that those suffering with inflammatory bowel disease frequently struggle with some form of skin disorder. Similarly, those suffering with inflammatory skin conditions also have increased levels of inflammation in the gut. The link between skin and gut health is not a new one but recent research has confirmed that specific ‘good’ bacteria are the key to?combating both digestive and skin issues.

‘Good bacteria, like a bicycle repair kit, rebuild the integrity of the gut whilst improving skin health at the same time.’

‘Leaky Gut’, where allergens and toxins leak from the intestines into the bloodstream, has been connected with the development of eczema and psoriasis. Good bacteria act similarly to a bicycle repair kit, forming a protective barrier and rebuilding the integrity of the gut whilst?improving skin health at the same time.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Limosilactobacillus?reuteri?and Lactobacillus rhamnosus?have all been identified not only as excellent shields, preventing allergens, toxins and yeasts from entering the bloodstream, but also as playing a pivotal role in skin health. Studies have repeatedly shown that a combination of all three reduce Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Propionibacterium acnes?and Staphylococcus epidermis, the unfriendly bacteria held responsible for causing, and worsening, cases of acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis.

The most recent, on-going clinical trial using strains of L. plantarum,?L. reuteri?and L.?rhamnosus?has found that the combination actively supports skin health by encouraging the production of B vitamins in the body and significantly reducing cutaneous pH. An improvement in skin hydration was noted throughout the initial 8-week evaluation period and most remarkable was the reduction in the production of skin sebum. Consequently, the number, and inflammatory status, of acneic lesions and comedones (blocked, bacteria filled pores) were both reduced and the complexion and evenness of skin was improved.

Nature’s Plumber

L-glutamine ( Viridian Nutrition ) is an amino acid known for its ability to heal the gut lining and repair leaks. It prevents pathogens/toxins from entering the intestine and reduces inflammation by forming a bacterial infiltration block, rebooting immune cell activity and soothing intestinal tissue. L-glutamine helps to support a balanced insulin response, keeping blood sugar levels in check, and it is also useful for collagen synthesis. Supplementing with L-glutamine also protects against cell stress as cortisol, the stress hormone, depletes the body’s natural glutamine levels.?

Yes, we have amassed quite the shopping list, but worry not, you do not have to spend a fortune on multiple products to look after your skin. Most of these nutrients can be found in:

1. A good, broad-spectrum multivitamin - Natures Aid provide targeted support with key multivitamin/mineral blends for men and women.

2. A targeted probiotic - Natures Aid Bio360 Pro-Derma?is specifically designed to support skin health.

3. A source of omega 3 fatty acids - Superba krill is brill!

These are all valuable components in the journey towards a healthier skin whilst simultaneously improving the microbiome of the gut. They are efficacious, form the cornerstones of good health and represent a valuable piece of the skin health jigsaw. I take them every day.

About the Author:

Tim Gaunt is a biochemist and nutritionist and an advocate for the promotion of better health and wellbeing. His expert opinion has been sought on a wide and diverse range of subjects over a period spanning four decades. Please read and share in his expertise as he freely debates health issues via his LinkedIn page.?

#timtalks #health #skinhealth #acne #dermatitis #rosacea #eczema #psoriasis