Glowing Skin Starts in the Kitchen

This week in my Facebook community, The Clear Skin Collective, we’ve been talking about healthy eating and a very popular myth I come across ALL the time is that diet has no impact on skin.

Seriously there’s nothing that irks me more than hearing this! The fact that so many dermatologists continue to dismiss the role of diet when it comes to healthy skin is completely BONKERS!

Back in the 1960’s and 70’s two popular (but highly flawed) research studies indicated no link between diet and acne. These studies were not only poorly designed, but also had very small sample sizes. Unfortunately, these studies continue to influence the medical world today even though there has been a lot of research since then that shows there truly is a diet-skin connection.

Throughout my struggles with acne, I saw multiple dermatologists and not a single one ever questioned my diet. I was prescribed various medicated creams and antibiotics, but using an outside-in approach to treat an internal issue will never solve the problem. Using good skincare products is important, but they will never replace the power of a healthy diet.

Dietary skin triggers can be different for different people, but the biggest beauty-busting culprits I see in my practice are DAIRY, SUGAR and GLUTEN! Personally, I found that cutting out dairy products made the biggest difference in my skin.

Cutting out favourite foods can be challenging, so let’s focus on all the delicious beauty-boosting foods you CAN eat! There are SO many, but here are 5 of my personal favourites that are both delicious and amazing for the health of your skin.

  • Berries
  • Avocado
  • Leafy Greens
  • Wild Salmon
  • Nuts & Seeds

One simple way that I love to incorporate more beauty-boosting foods into my diet is through smoothies! If you haven’t learned about it yet, check out my “Blend, Sip & Glow” guide for 5 delicious smoothie recipes to get you started.

Beyond smoothies, here are a few more beauty-boosting snack ideas to nibble on throughout the day.

1.  Apple with pumpkin seeds
2. Green smoothie
3. Avocado on whole grain toast
4. Chia pudding with berries
5. Home made trail mix (brazil nuts, almonds, cacao nibs, coconut flakes)
6. Matcha latte (with almond milk)
7. Roasted sweet potato wedges sprinkled with cinnamon
8. Banana with almond butter
9. Raw veggies with hummus
10. Strawberries dipped in dark chocolate (>70% cacao content)

What other beauty-boosting foods have you tried? I’d love to hear your story!
Cheers to your radiance!