One of our favourite Functional Doctors (those that look at the whole body as a system and the root causes of health issues and disease) is Dr Mark Hyman. Recently he posted about how he approaches any skin issue and it lines up perfectly with our philosophy. Here's what he said.
1. Ditch refined sugar and processed foods
Sugar sticks to amino acids that are present in collagen and elastin, creating Advanced Glycation End Products or "AGEs." What does this do? You guessed it. It ages you and your skin.
Our solution: Replace your sugary snacks with our Collagen Protein Cookies
2. Address food sensitivities
Food sensitivities can trigger skin conditions. One of the biggest culprits is dairy, which contributes to acne. One of the best ways to address food sensitivities is to do an elimination diet where you eliminate the most common sensitivities including gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, and sugar for 21 days and then reintroduce them one at a time to see if they cause any reaction.
Our solution: Our Collagen Protein Cookies are gluten and dairy free, and our Collagen Protein Coffee uses Buttermilk which can reduce sensitivities to dairy significantly. Our Collagen Protein Hot Chocolate is dairy free.
3. Work on your gut
Your skin is often reflection of your gut health. If you suspect leaky gut, working with a practitioner to address your gut health is key. I always suggest a weed, seed, and feed protocol. Weed out the bad bugs, seed with probiotics, and feed with prebiotics and beneficial gut foods like a variety of plant foods, healthy fats, and clean protein. Anyone can start a gut healing diet today.
Our solution: Our Collagen Protein Cookies have loads of fibre (prebiotics) and are great for the gut. They also contain healthy fats and clean protein.
4. Optimize nutrients
You need many nutrients to maintain healthy skin. Zinc deficiencies, vitamin d deficiencies, and more can contribute to eczema, acne, and psoriasis. Work with your practitioner to identify nutrient deficiencies and consider incorporating a high-potency multivitamin/mineral.
Our solution: Our Marine Collagen Powder is loaded with Zinc and other important nutrients.
5. Exercise and sweat
When you sweat, you excrete toxins from your body. Saunas and steam rooms are also a great way to remove toxins from your body. Try to work up a sweat a a few times a week.
Our solution: Check out Beauty Food founder Libby Babet's free 12 weeks of workouts with Tiffany Hall on Youtube! Or you can get Libby's On Demand workouts.
6. Get better sleep
Poor sleep increases aging and diminishes skin barrier function. Lack of sleep also creates stress, which is a huge culprit of skin challenges.
Our solution: Our Collagen Protein Hot Chocolate is a warm hug in a mug, designed to give you your best night's sleep.
7. Manage stress
Studies show stress can exacerbate skin issues. I have several patients who report their psoriasis and eczema flaring up during stressful situations. Stress is inevitable, but finding ways to actively manage stress daily, such as 20 minute daily meditation practice, can make us more resilient in the face of hard times.
Our solution: Our Collagen Protein Coffee is formulated with Siberian Ginseng to help you manage anxiety and stress. Jitter free coffee, yes please!
8. Choose better skincare products
Stop using creams, and cosmetic that contain paraben, petrochemicals, lead or other toxins. Drugs and chemicals are easily absorbed through your skin. If you wouldn't eat it, don't put it on your skin.
Mark's solution: Follow Environmental Working Group's page
