Beyond Skin Deep: How the Skin Microbiome, Gut, and Mind Work Together for Overall Well Being

By now, many of us know that there is an important relationship between the gut and the mind. But many of us are not aware that there is a relationship among the gut, mind and skin—including the skin microbiome. During a recent episode of the Living a Nutritious Life podcast, Whitney Bowe shared some of her world renowned tips and tricks on maintaining healthy skin, which included keeping in mind (catch that one?) the gut.  By balancing cortisol levels (one way to do this is by maintaining optimal stress levels), you will help alleviate inflammation of the gut, helping to keep those good gut microbes humming along doing their good work. Using products that support the microbes on your skin helps maintain clear and glowing skin. This in turn, may help reduce stress too (among other benefits.) See how it all works together?   Breaking it down further for you here: Balancing Cortisol Levels Cortisol, the body’s most famous stress hormone, impacts nearly every organ system as it mediates the stress response, regulates metabolism, controls inflammation, and supports immune function. Cortisol levels may be elevated due to certain medications, trauma, pregnancy, depression, dehydration and malnutrition. When cortisol levels rise, the body undergoes various physiological changes. One of those changes may be an increase in oil production, leading to acne and breakouts. This is why we often blame acne on being “stressed out.” Stress less, is a  pillar of a Nutritious Life because managing stress is essential to living a healthy life. If you’re noticing your skin is not giving the glowy silky smooth look you’re aiming for, you may want to consider your stress levels and how you’re actively managing them. You don’t have to become a pro at meditating to reduce stress. You can start slow by doing breathwork five minutes a day or try other ways to mediate stress such as practicing yoga, foam rolling, working massages into your regular routine, or simply going for a walk in nature. Lowering Inflammation in the Gut  Inflammation is the body’s reaction to stress, like an alarm bell alerting all of your cells to a problem that needs to be fixed right away. Inflammation in the gut refers to many conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastritis, and enteritis. Your gut has its own nervous system, called the Enteric Nervous System (ENS), commonly referred to as the second brain. The ENS not only regulates digestion but also sends signals to the brain, meaning your gut and brain are in constant communication. If your gut is inflamed, those signals can be disturbed. Stress, as mentioned above, leads to increased cortisol levels, which in turn leads to inflammation in the gut which can also cause a lack of nutrient absorption, preventing your skin from getting the proper nutrients it needs.  Applying Products that Support the Microbes on Your Skin There are trillions of bacteria and other microbes that make up the skin microbiome. This is one of the reasons we think of the skin as our first line of defense—it’s critical in fighting infections, healing wounds, and controlling inflammation. Just as the texture of your skin varies across different parts of your body, so does your skin’s microbiome vary. The microbes on the face are particularly susceptible to changes. When disrupted, it can lead to overgrowth of bacteria that cause acne, eczema, and other skin issues. In order to maintain a healthy skin microbiome, you’ll want to avoid over-sanitizing, especially with antimicrobial products. Yes, that’s why you sometimes hear people say to “wash your hands but don’t use sanitizer.” Also, keep your skin moisturized that will also protect your skin (and overall health!) (Image: Unsplash)

The Best Natural Remedies for Acne, According to a Dermatologist

By April Dupee Clear skin seems like it’d be easy enough to achieve—but much like limitless energy, good sleep, and work-life balance—it can feel like an impossible feat for some people. And contrary to popular belief, acne does *not* stay where you left it in high school. Adult acne is 100 percent a thing, and if you have it, you want it G. O. N. E., like yesterday. Problem is, traditional acne treatments often come with high price tags or unpleasant side effects like dryness, redness, or irritation, which is why many people want to add natural remedies to their acne-fighting routines. RELATED: 5 Foods That Prevent Acne Naturally Where to start? Well, the next time you’re tempted to poke at a blemish, try reaching for one of these natural remedies—courtesy of Michele Green, MD, New York City-based dermatologist—for an easy and affordable acne treatment instead. (Note: It’s always a good idea to see a derm to find the best acne treatment for your skin type, but these are solid options for lots of people. And start slowly: Natural doesn’t always mean gentle—nature is powerful, people!) Tea Tree Oil Have a pimple that just won’t budge? This essential oil extracted from the leaves of an Australian tree may be the spot treatment you need. With powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, Dr. Green says tea tree oil can be highly effective at reducing acne. Dilute a few drops and dab onto blemishes for an easy at-home treatment. (Photo: Shutterstock) Green Tea You already love matcha lattes for their antioxidant content and earthy flavor—and we’ve got another reason to sip up…Turns out, green tea’s antioxidants can help reduce oil production and inflammation when applied directly to skin. Simply steep some green tea, let it cool (no burns, pls!), and apply to your face after cleansing. RELATED: 7 Teas That Reduce Bloating the Natural Way (Photo: Shutterstock) Apple Cider Vinegar You’re definitely going to want this one in your natural acne-fighting arsenal. Apple cider vinegar “contains many organic acids that have been proven to kill P. acnes, the bacteria responsible for breakouts,” says Dr. Green. It also removes the excess oil that causes breakouts. Just be sure to dilute it with water—as in, add three times as much H2O—since the acidity can cause irritation, redness, or burns when applied directly to the skin. Apply with a cotton ball, let it dry, and then rinse with water. (Photo: Shutterstock) Honey Good news: The same sweetener you add to your cuppa can double as an effective acne treatment since honey contains powerful antioxidants that can help reduce oil production. A few tablespoons of honey + a teaspoon of cinnamon = your next self-care Sunday mask. How sweet! (Photo: Shutterstock) (Featured Photo: Shutterstock)

5 Surprising Natural Solutions to Common Skin-Care Issues

Which botanicals belong in your beauty routine?

The Easiest Way to Prevent Wrinkles Naturally

Trying to prevent wrinkles? Bad news: even if you’re slathering on sunscreen three times a day and are being super careful about getting enough sleep, if you’re eating the wrong foods, you’re not doing your skin any favors. But there’s good news, too: Eating the right foods can prevent wrinkles and even reverse (yes, reverse!) signs of aging. In fact, your diet is the. most. important. factor when it comes to aging gracefully. In this video, I’m sharing three nutrients you should include in your diet every single day, and which foods you can find them in. Hey, restocking your fridge is way easier than scheduling millions of appointments with your dermatologist, right? Start fighting fine lines (and embrace the ones you can’t!), now. How to Prevent Wrinkles Naturally, With Food