The foundation for beautiful skin relies on attention to nutrition and the consumption of essential fatty acids.
When it comes to vibrant, youthful skin, nutrition is critical and substances called essential fatty acids are the crucial ingredient. That’s right. Avoiding prolonged sun exposure, utilizing sunscreens and regular use of moisturizers are important, but the foundation for beautiful skin relies on attention to nutrition and the consumption of essential fatty acids.
According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University,
- Omega six and Omega three fatty acids play a critical role in normal skin function and appearance.
- Omega six fatty acids have a particular role in structural integrity and function of the skin
- Consuming oils rich in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid favorably alters the composition of the epidermis (outer most layer of skin cells)
- Dietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids blocks sun induced skin aging and inflammatory response
- Both topical application and oral supplementation are effective means of delivering essential fatty acids to the outer (epidermis) and inner (dermis) layers of skin.
Oils rich in omega six fatty acid include sunflower, safflower, evening primrose and borage oils. Omega three rich oils include flaxseed and menhaden fish oils.
Foods rich in essential fatty acids include sunflower seeds and oil, pine nuts, corn oil, soybean oil, pecans and pecan oil, Brazil nuts and sesame oil as well as salmon, trout, sardines, krill & herring. Fish are particularly rich in EPA and DHA fatty acids, both which contribute significantly to skin and heart health.
Not too incidentally, it may come as a surprise to many that coconut oil is not abundant in essential fatty acids despite commercial claims for its benefits.
That said, when it comes to skin, Be Healthy! Be Happy! has you covered.
This is Dr. Jim for Be Healthy! Be Happy! Power your path to happiness!
Reference:
The Linus Pauling Micronutrient Institute at Oregon State University, 2019. Online [available at]: https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/micAccessed May 28, 2019.