The gut microbiota is responsible for regulating essential factors that affect skin health
Our bodies are all connected and this starts to become even clearer with age. Poor sleep causes dull skin, anxiety results in a lower immune system, and it’s all cyclical. While you may think you are doing enough for your skin by filling it with cleansers and serums, it may often not be enough.
“Our physical and mental health has a major impact on our skin. For example, when your gut is out of balance, many other bodily functions follow suit. Our gut health affects the health of our skin and improves the microbiome. intestinal is a way to better and healthier skin, “explains dermatologist Dr. Daniel Cassiano, member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.
Relationship between intestinal microbiota and skin
According to the doctor, the functioning of the intestinal microbiome it is intrinsically linked to skin health and is one of the main regulators of the gut-skin axis. “The gut plays a key role in regulating skin cell turnover, repairing UV exposure, hydrating the skin, controlling the rate of wound healing and influencing the skin microbiome,” says the dr. Daniele Cassiano. In this sense, it is also safe to say that “our skin is the external mirror of our gut. In simpler terms, the gut and the skin are in ‘constant communication’,” he says.
Consequences of poor bowel health
An unhealthy gut can negatively affect a variety of functions, but the most visible is the skin. “It can cause inflammation and exacerbate conditions such as eczema and rosacea. Skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and, in some cases, skin cancer can also develop or worsen. In addition, acne and dandruff can arise due to an intestinal biome.” , explains the doctor.
This is because poor gut health affects the production of cytokines and pro-inflammatory cells that suppress the immune system. “These cytokines are like messengers of inflammation, which increase the permeability of our skin’s barrier cells, creating chronic systemic inflammation that can be expressed as acne, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis,” says Dr. Daniele Cassiano.
Influence of nutrient levels
The gut microbiome also plays an essential role in nutrient absorption. “If nutrient absorption is impaired in the gut, the repair and renewal of our skin cells will suffer as we are not provided with enough amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals for collagen production, detoxification and protection. Malabsorption can not only lead to skin problems, it can also affect energy, vitality, immune function, hair and nails, “explains the dermatologist.
Causes of bacterial imbalance
Acne, eczema and psoriasis in particular can be linked to an imbalance in intestinal bacteria, intestinal inflammation or intestinal permeability. “When bacteria in the gut microbiome get out of balance, it causes inflammation, which leads to damage to the lining of the gut, also known as leaky gut,” explains the doctor.
According to the expert, among the causes of the problem are: “A bacterial imbalance in the gut, or ‘intestinal dysbiosis’, is very common today. Stress, processed foods, high consumption of sugar, alcohol and excessive use of antibiotics are common. factors that reduce our good intestinal bacteria and contribute to intestinal dysbiosis “.
Conditions that interfere with skin health
People suffering from bowel-related diseases such as celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may also be affected by problems caused by the gut. “These conditions are inflammatory in nature and when inflammatory cytokines increase in the gut, we also see that this has a negative effect on inflammatory skin conditions. Additionally, these conditions affect nutrient absorption, which can result in thin skin.” . dry and dull, “says the doctor.
Several studies link inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). inflammatory skin diseases. “This is mainly due to the fact that IBD is an autoimmune condition that triggers inflammatory processes in the body. Often, individuals with IBD also experience inflammation in other organ systems, including the skin,” says Dr. Daniele Cassiano. Studies have also found that people with IBS are more likely to have atopic dermatitis or rosacea. Meanwhile, people with celiac disease often suffer from eczema, psoriasis, acne, dry skin, hives, and alopecia.
Foods that affect the intestinal microbiota
Diet choice has a huge impact on the gut, so eating healthy foods is key. “[…] What you don’t eat is just as important to a healthy gut as what you eat. Some foods and drinks are known to cause inflammation in the gut, including simple carbohydrates, high glycemic indexes, sweets, ultra-processed foods, soy, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol, so you should limit your intake.
Benefits of a balanced diet
There are selected amino acids that have been shown to improve the health of the intestinal lining and therefore the gut microbiome. These amino acids, including arginine, glycine, cysteine ​​glutamate and glutamine, are found in protein supplements and in a balanced diet.
“As an added benefit, these amino acids also improve skin protection and collagen production, so they do a double duty for skin health,” explains the doctor, who suggests including more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, vegetables and fermented foods in the diet.
Impact on lifestyle
Stress is also one of the factors affecting skin health, so it is essential to practice activities that help control this sensation. “Stress kills our good gut bacteria. Incorporate stress management practices like yoga, meditation and breathing into your daily routine,” she recommends.
As explained by Dr. Daniele Cassiano, in addition to practicing physical activity, making other changes to the routine can help skin health. “When it comes to general lifestyle changes, think about regular exercise, quit smoking, reduce stress exposure, and avoid unnecessary antibiotics. Consult a dermatologist and nutritionist if necessary to modify your diet and treat. the “skin” changes, concludes the doctor.
By Guilherme Zanette
+The best content in your email for free. Choose your favorite Earth Newsletter. Click here!
Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
