Eat to reduce skin aging and cell damage… it is better than any ointment or cream

Our skin, the body’s largest organ, acts as a protective shield against external threats. In Australia, where the sun’s UV radiation is potent, our skin faces a constant battle against harmful elements. Yet, it’s not just the sun we need to be wary of; various stress factors, including irradiation, environmental conditions, illness, inflammation, smoking, and alcohol consumption, contribute to skin damage. The common denominator in these factors is the production of free radicals, rogue molecules that wreak havoc on our skin.

Free radicals induce oxidative stress, a condition where the delicate balance between free radicals and antioxidants is disrupted in favour of the former. This imbalance sets off a chain reaction, causing the destruction of collagen and elastin fibres – the building blocks of skin elasticity and firmness. Furthermore, free radicals can damage our DNA, a fundamental component of our cells. This damage not only accelerates the aging process but also raises the risk of skin cancer.

Fortunately, our dietary choices can play a pivotal role in mitigating the damage inflicted on our skin. Antioxidants – the unsung heroes derived from the foods we eat. These include essential vitamins such as A, C, D, and E, along with carotenoids, flavonoids, and selenium. Antioxidants function as a defence mechanism, neutralising free radicals and acting as a protective shield for our skin. What’s intriguing is that research suggests that obtaining antioxidants through our diet is more effective than relying solely on topical applications, such as creams or oils.

To harness the power of antioxidants, it’s crucial to incorporate a variety of nutrient-rich foods into our daily meals. Fruits and vegetables, with their vibrant colours, are particularly rich sources. Consider vitamin C, found in abundance in broccoli, kiwi fruit, citrus fruits, and red capsicum. Nuts and seeds, like sunflower seeds and peanuts, offer a generous dose of vitamin E. Meanwhile, beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant, can be obtained from carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale. The colour spectrum in fruits and vegetables isn’t just for aesthetics; each often signifies a different set of antioxidants.

Let’s explore a practical example of how to structure a day of antioxidant-rich eating:

• Breakfast: Kickstart your day with a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with blueberries and granola, providing a boost of anthocyanins and other essential nutrients.
• Morning Tea: Indulge in a cup of black tea paired with two squares of dark chocolate, delivering a combination of flavonoids and antioxidants.
• Lunch: Opt for a nutrient-packed salad comprising leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, sunflower seeds, and boiled eggs. This not only provides a diverse range of antioxidants but also contributes to overall skin health.
• Dinner: For your evening meal, roast a medley of vegetables like broccoli, red capsicum, and sweet potatoes alongside chicken, creating a colourful plate filled with skin-loving nutrients.

What about supplements for skin health?

Eating antioxidants through a balanced and varied diet offers several advantages over relying solely on antioxidant supplements. While supplements may seem like a convenient option, the benefits of obtaining antioxidants from natural food sources are numerous and contribute to overall health and well-being.

Synergistic Effects:

Foods are complex, containing a variety of nutrients, fibre, and compounds that work synergistically. Antioxidant-rich foods often include a combination of vitamins, minerals, and other phytonutrients that complement each other. This synergistic effect is challenging to replicate with individual supplements.

Bioavailability:

The bioavailability of nutrients in food is often higher than that of supplements. Our bodies are designed to absorb and utilise nutrients from food more efficiently. The intricate matrix of nutrients in whole foods enhances absorption, ensuring that antioxidants are properly assimilated.

Nutrient Diversity:

Antioxidant-rich foods provide a diverse array of nutrients, not just antioxidants. These foods contain fibre, vitamins, minerals, and other essential compounds that contribute to overall health.

Dietary fibre Content:

Many antioxidant-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are also high in dietary fibre. Fibre plays a crucial role in digestion, maintaining gut health, and regulating blood sugar levels. Supplements typically lack the fibre content found in whole foods, missing out on these additional health benefits.

Reduced Risk of Overconsumption:

While it’s challenging to overconsume antioxidants from natural food sources, it’s easier to do so with supplements. Excessive intake of certain isolated antioxidants through supplements may have unintended side effects. Whole foods offer a balanced and safer approach to obtaining antioxidants.

Rather than investing in pricey facial creams and oils, or supplements, the emphasis shifts to investing in a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. Aim for 5-6 servings of different colored vegetables each day, complemented by 2 servings of fruit and an inclusion of flavonoid-rich foods like dark chocolate, and black or green tea.

By adopting this approach, you are not just nourishing your skin externally; you are fortifying it from within. The radiant glow and improved skin health will be a testament to the effectiveness of this holistic and delicious skincare regimen. So, in the pursuit of healthier skin, let your plate be your palette, and savor the benefits of nature’s pharmacy. Your skin will thank you for the nourishment and care, revealing a healthy and vibrant glow that goes beyond the surface. If you struggle to get enough fruits and vegetables on your plate, book in with An Accredited Practising Dietitian, such as myself, who can provide a meal plan that suits your lifestyle and promotes healthy happy skin!