Skin is the largest organ and [1] protects from viruses, bacteria, and UV rays, [2] produces vitamin D, [3] helps regulate temperature and, [4] helps body react to environmental changes.
Development:
[1] enlargement of sebaceous glands -->
[2] increased sebum production -->
[3] blocked follicles -->
[4] increased p. acnes bacteria in pores -->
[5] inflammation -->
[6] poor skin barrier integrity -->
[7] pore colonized by staphylococcus aureus (bacteria) -->
[8] pimple.
Gut-Skin Connection:
> clear relationship between gut problems such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, (SIBO), and acne.
> up to 40% of those with acne have inadequate stomach acid and so are unable to effectively disinfect food. This increases the microbial load which stresses the immune system.
> up to 65% with acne have a higher reactivity to endotoxins (eg E. coli microbial waste) in the blood.
Locations of Acne
1. Chin and Jaw: may indicate hormonal imbalances
Candida overgrowth and food “enemies” such as sugar, flour, wine and dairy can aggravate the problem. In women, disturbances here may arise around the time of one’s menstrual cycle but it may also indicate a more severe problem such as PCOS.
2. Cheeks: may indicate metabolic abnormalities or lung problems
Hypothyroidism results in a slow metabolism and can influence facial skin tissue. The upper parts of the cheeks are linked to lung health (toxicity or obstructions). Experiencing acne on your face is also associated with environmental contaminants from inhaling poor air quality and also from objects you allow on your face.
3. Nose: may indicate poor blood circulation / diet
Breakouts along the nose and cheeks can indicate [1] problem with your heart, [2] blood pressure issue, [3] diet (lacking in salmon, avocados, flaxseed and olive oil).
4. Skin between the Eyebrows/Temples: may indicate liver or gallbladder toxicity / inadequate blood circulation / bacterial infection
Problems with the liver or gallbladder are often from the overconsumption of alcohol, processed foods, high trans fats. An unhealthy diet can contribute to indigestion and stress to the digestive tract, causing toxins to accumulate.
5. Forehead: may indicate dehydration, digestion problems (small intestine) and/or stress.
Individuals with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) will often develop acne in the center of the forehead while the sides tend to be more related to dehydration and the far corners are due to stress and poor cardiovascular function.
Naturopathic Advice may include:
> increase antioxidant foods such as:
[1] resveratrol (grapes),
[2] ellagic acid (raspberries),
[3] lycopene (red fleshed fruits like tomatoes), [
4] curcumin (turmeric).
> balance stomach acid by increasing:
[1] fermented vegetables – sauerkraut, kimchi and homemade pickles,
[2] ginger,
[3] peppermint, cinnamon, rosemary and fennel herbal teas,
[4] fluids outside a 30 minute window of eating,
[5] 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar / lemon juice in ¼ cup water before food.
> avoid dairy (blocks zinc absorption) and increase zinc rich foods including spinach, flax and pumpkin seeds, cashews and cacao powder.
> reduce trans and saturated fat, red meat, sugar, refined foods, simple carbs, alcohol, spicy foods.
> increase omega-3 foods (walnuts, flaxseed, chia seeds, fish)
> include green tea and berries
(Adapted from: www.naturopathy-uk.com/news/blog/2017/06/08/acne/; www.drjockers.com/10-things-acne-means-health/)
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