You always hear about the mind and body connection. But, what about the skin and gut connection?If an individual constantly eats a diet lacking in nutrients, they will suffer the consequences of inflammation.Skin is a person’s largest organ. It is made up of many, tiny living microorganisms that fight off harmful bacteria and keep the body’s bacteria balanced.This is the same for the gut.In order forthe gut to function at its capacity, it needs to have a proper balance of bacteria.What one eats can affect the balance of good bacteria and cause skin conditions like rashes and breakouts. 

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Everything put into the body reflects on the skin.When analyzinga client’s skin, I bet you can tell if they are not sleeping, if they drank too much alcohol, or if they are taking a new medication.You can probably also tell if it looks like they have been eating too much sugar and processed foods and not drinking enough water.Now let’s take a look at four popular diet trends and their impact on the skin to better your analysis.

PALEO DIET

The Oxford Dictionary defines the paleo diet as a diet based on the types of foods presumed to have been eaten by early humans.Meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, nuts, and seeds – foods that in the past could be obtained by hunting and gathering.A paleo diet limits foods that became common once farming came into the picture – processed sugar, dairy, starches, (legumes and grains) and refined oils.Doctors agree that added hormones in processed foods disrupts normal body functions and can trigger various skin conditions like acne and eczema.People on this diet also report a dramatic increase in the growth of their hair and nails, attributing it to the protein and zinc found in the meat they are consuming.

KETO DIET

The Ketogenic diet (keto diet) shares many similarities to the Atkins diet.A typical breakfast on both diets may consist of a bacon and egg sandwich between two fried “chaffles” (fried cheese that looks like a waffle). A mouthwatering choice to some and a not a chance in this lifetime to others.Doctors say a diet high in fat increases the production of sebum on skin and as a result can lead to acne and other inflammatory conditions like psoriasis.Doctors also say that, in certain rare conditions, the keto diet has been known to trigger a skin condition in some people called “prurigo pigmentosa,” an itchy rash that looks like small pimples on the back, chest, or stomach. However, it has also been reported by some people on both diets that their skin appears to be softer and more glowing because of the higher oil content in the diet. Doctors attribute the glow to metabolism changes and more oil production.

VEGAN & PLANT-BASED DIETS

People who consume mostly plant-based foods do not really need to focus on calorie counting because they fill their plates with nutrient-dense foods that are naturally low in calories.As a result, they have lower cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure stats.But, did you know eating whole grains, vegetables and fruits can transform skin?When you fill your plate with the colors from the rainbow, your body is getting nutrients like lycopene (protects skin from photodamage), vitamin C (stimulates collagen), and potassium (hydration).These antioxidants keep free radicals in check. 

THE H2O Connection

With any of these diets, the number one thing to remember is to add water.Water is life.Not drinking enough water puts added pressure on the heart to deliver oxygen and nutrients to organs.It also shows up on your face as an uneven, dull complexion with very noticeable fine lines.It can be temporary, and it is a relatively easy thing to fix with a few lifestyle adjustments.

It is important to know how food may impact the skin, especially if the primary goal has more to do with the body mass, rather than the completion.What works to reduce the body, may wreak havoc on the skin. Clients came to the professional for the answers so remember to stay informed on the latest diet trends. 

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Annette Hanson is the founder of Atelier Esthétique Institute of Esthetics in Manhattan, a New York state licensing, NACCAS-accredited skin care school, post-graduate facility, and the first United States aesthetics college to be recognized by London’s International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC).Her professional experience spans more than 30 years as a Paris-trained aesthetician, waxing specialist, body therapist, salon manager, and spa consultant.A creator of two product lines, she is also a published author and sought-after lecturer at leading professional conferences worldwide.She was instrumental in the development of the 600-hour curriculum for the New York state aesthetics license, as well as the written and practical exam. She served as an educator on the Appearance Enhancement Advisory Committee to New York’s Secretary of State. She was inducted into the Aesthetics International Association (A.I.A.) industry legends in August 2009 by DERMASCOPE Magazine.She is on the leadership committee of the ASCP Skin Care School Council (Associated Skin Care Professionals).