Nothing perplexes us more than the health of our skin. Everyone and their mother has an opinion on what makes a bad skin day better, and a good skin day all the more radiant. From hormones to stress and everything in between, the slightest tweak in our lifestyle and diet is said to have raging implications on our complexions.
And while it’s easy enough to work in a great skin care routine that involves several steps and a few pricey products, it’s truly what we’re putting into our bodies that have the most impact. Don’t think for a second that those deep fried pickles won’t leave a lasting mark.
Of course, giving up the bad and swapping in side salads and the like sound all nice and fun, but we’re also serious about our food. With that, we had one of Toronto’s leading dermatologists, Dr. Lisa Kellett, Dermatologist at DLK on Avenue weigh in the matter. While we’re all for giving up a few drinks, maybe some dairy and the occasional carb, we also love the idea of moderation.
What makes our skin tick the most? It’s time to start making the smart choices when and where you can. We encourage you to still indulge and not take everything too seriously when it comes to your skin because of course, zits happen.
Check out our game-changing Q&A that will help steer you and your skin in the right direction this new year.
What food or food group would you suggest causes the most damage to our complexion: Alcohol, gluten, dairy, sugar – and why?
Dr. Lisa Kellett: There is no evidence-based medicine that properly compares these items however, we know that alcohol is metabolized by the liver as a toxin and thus is to be used in moderate amounts. Gluten ingestion can also be an issue for individuals with celiac disease.
What foods or ingredients cause inflammation and irritation when it comes to our skin?
Dr. Lisa Kellett: In patients with rosacea vulgaris, hot foods or spicy foods, tomatoes, strawberries and alcohol (especially red wine) can act as histamine release triggers and cause redness and inflammation.
What foods or ingredients would you suggest we start consuming for clearer and healthier skin today?
Dr. Lisa Kellett: Increase ingestion of dark green leafy vegetables as well as all colourful vegetables such as carrots and beets. In addition, berries such as blueberries and raspberries have antioxidants.”
If you could tell us to eliminate just one thing today, what would it be and why?
Dr. Lisa Kellett: Alcohol as it contains empty calories with no nutritional content.
What’s your best advice for clear skin, not just for today – but for our lifetime?
Dr. Lisa Kellett: Protect and prevent! Avoid the sun, eat and sleep well and avoid alcohol and smoking.
Are you surprised about what food affects our skin? Let us know in the comment section.
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