Several people are plagued with dry skin. However, following a proper diet for dry skin can take care of this problem.
When the weather becomes dry and cold in winter, it becomes essential to keep the skin moisturized. While lotions and moisturisers go a long way to take care of dry skin, but for that supple, hydrated skin, it is required to take care of the skin from the inside out. Dietary choices can help fight dry, scaly and itchy skin.
Dry skin happens when the skin does not retain enough moisture. This can be mostly the result of using harsh soaps, frequent bathing, some medical conditions or aging. For people who live in cold climates, this can be due to the dry, cold winter air. This is because cold winter air would mean low humidity both indoors and outdoors. Dry skin is not a serious health issue, but it can lead to serious complications, including chronic eczema or other skin problems and infections. Diet for dry skin can help fight dry skin issues.
As it is believed, you are what you eat. Eating foods that keep the skin smooth and supple is easy. Here is the best dry skin diet to help hydrate your dry skin.
Bright coloured vegetables
Yellow and orange vegetables comprise beta-carotene that is excellent as diet for dry skin. These are loaded with antioxidants that help fight off dry skin and protect the same from environmental damage and the harsh rays of the sun. These also comprise vitamins A and C that help to produce collagen and repair the body tissues. Some orange and yellow vegetables include potatoes, carrots, red peppers, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, papaya and apricots.
Green vegetables Dark leafy green vegetables contain omega-4 fatty acids, vitamins A, B and E, and iron that offer protection to the skin and help enhance the immune system. Folates and photochemicals in the vegetables help to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
Also Read:Home remedies for facial hair
Nuts and seeds These contain vitamins A, B and E, omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, monosaturated fats and plenty of antioxidants. They hydrate the skin, enhance elasticity, and offer protection against free radicals and pollutants.
Fruits Fruits are an excellent way to hydrate and protect the skin. Most fruits comprise plenty of vitamin A and C, enhance production of collagen, replenish nutrients in the skin and help to keep the skin firm and supple. Some skin boosting fruits are watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges, mangoes, strawberries, pineapple, blueberries, raspberries, and grapefruits Vitamin C present in fruits is essential for the functioning of the enzyme that leads to collagen formation, and the collagen acts as the sponge for moisture. Vitamin C together with zinc and copper helps to keep collagen denser. This leads to the formation of hydrated, plump skin. Zinc contains anti-inflammatory properties that are important to maintain smooth skin.
Fibre Include plenty of fibre in your diet for dry skin; fibre is essential to help flush the toxic chemicals, including smog, smoke, stress and other environmental factors out of your body. However, keep in mind that excess of fibre in the body can prevent the body from taking in essential nutrients and vitamins that are important for healthy skin.
Also Read: Home remedies for wrinkles under eyes
Water The most vital thing you can do to keep your skin hydrated is drink plenty of water. When treating dry skin, it helps to focus on hydration. You can start by increasing the water intake. Drink at least 2 litres of water every day to replace the water that the body loses through various ways. It is best to avoid caffeine as it can constrict the blood vessels.
Coconut oil This is a great dry skin diet fat that can be taken internally as well as used topically on the skin. Coconut oil is anti-inflammatory that offers a wide range of benefits. It helps to curb sugar cravings and leaves you feeling full, which helps in enhancing weight loss.
Even if you include a healthy diet, you can still face skin problems if there are moisture robbing foods in your diet. Some liquids, chemicals and foods can deplete the water content in the body and lead to skin dehydration. It is best to stay away from caffeine, alcohol, soft drinks and foods that contain processed sugar, fried foods and animal fats.
These are some of the foods that you can make a part of your everyday diet for dry skin if you want a soft and plump skin. Consult your doctor if you notice that making dietary changes has brought you no relief from your dry skin.
