A NATUROPATH’S GUIDE TO GORGEOUS SUMMER SKIN

NATUROPATH ANTHIA KOULLOUROS HAS EXPERIENCED HER FAIR SHARE OF SKIN STRUGGLES. HERE, SHE REVEALS HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SKIN PROPERLY, FROM THE INSIDE OUT.

The natural way to care for your skin.

AS AN EAGER NATUROPATHIC STUDENT in the early 1990s, the health topic closest to my heart was personal: skin. For me, persistent acne during puberty was followed by blemished, bumpy, dotty, red skin that seemed impervious to every intervention. I couldn’t figure it out. I was nutritionally healthy. I did everything by the book. Yet my skin never cooperated, leaving me self-conscious and frustrated. Meanwhile, my mother was radiant. Genetics were on her side and no matter what she did (or didn’t do), her skin behaved. Only later did I discover that everyone expresses poor health and stress uniquely. Some of us experience migraines, some of us psoriasis or other skin issues. Whatever the manifestation, it’s usually a sign of disharmony in the mind, body and spirit. Indeed, our skin can affect how we see ourselves and present ourselves to the world and also offer an insight into what is happening on a deeper level in our bodies, physically and emoitionally. After years of clinical observation, I’ve found that what truly heals the skin is a combination of high-quality nutrition, lifestyle improvements, skin-specific remedies and gentle personal enquiry to work through any underlying stresses. I came to thank the skin that inspired me to look within — a harder but altogether more rewarding route. If you’re not sure where to start, follow this holistic plan to balance mind, body and spirit.

IT STARTS WITH THE GUT

There’s a growing awareness of the gut’s role in healthy skin. Eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and skin rashes may be a reflection of increased intestinal permeability — also known as leaky gut. Gluten, bacteria, parasites and stress can damage the intestinal wall, allowing undigested foods, toxins and microorganisms to pass into the bloodstream and trigger an immune reaction. If you suffer acne, it may be a sign of toxin build-up from things like constipation, poor liver function or circulation, and lymphatic congestion. Small intestine bacterial overgrowth has also been linked to acne. Check your toxic load. Food additives, processed sugar, vegetable oils, refined salt, excessive caffeine and alcohol, cigarettes and recreational drugs not only bump-out good nutrition, they cause inflammation and mess with hormones, leading to skin dramas. Toxins from non-natural beauty products and personal care items can play a role too, so think carefully about what you choose to put on your skin. Skin colour clues. The colour and state of your skin can reflect your general health and offer clues for improvement. Rosy skin suggests a strong heart and lungs, carrying oxygen to create a slightly flushed — and traditionally ‘pretty’ — look. Meanwhile, pale skin may be a sign of anaemia and grey-looking skin could indicate diabetes, heart disease and smoking, which leads to fewer blood vessels and less oxygen running through your system. Sallow skin and dark circles under the eyes generally mean you need more sleep. On a positive note, a golden glow can be a sign of high carotenoid intake from colourful fruits and vegetables — nature’s answer to fake tan! If you find your skin red and sunburned this summer, you might need a little gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf as a soothing and cooling balm. >

PANTRY MUST-HAVES FOR GOOD SKIN

Diet is key to beautiful skin. Stock your shelves with organic or biodynamic foods that are rich in vitamins. Vitamin A promotes healthy cell turnover in the skin and slows down sebum production, reducing acne, so think organic livers, fermented cod liver oil, pastured egg yolks, ghee and butter. (Most of these foods are also rich in vitamin K2, which helps keep skin elastic and soft, smoothing lines and wrinkles.) Vitamin C helps with collagen production, decreasing dryness and preventing the formation of scar tissue. It’s also an antioxidant that pairs with vitamin E to protect skin from harmful UV rays. Stock up on guava, dark leafy greens, broccoli, brussels sprouts, kiwi, citrus fruits and strawberries. Vitamin E-rich foods are anti-inflammatory, defend the skin against free radicals and provide protection against UV rays. Add wheatgerm oil, sunflower seeds, almonds and olive oil to your shopping list. Omega 3-rich foods help reduce dryness, inflammation and prevent keratosis pilaris. Dig into wild salmon, sardines, anchovies, pasture-raised beef, lamb and eggs. Vitamin B5 also helps prevent keratosis pilaris, as well as combat sun damage, pollutants and signs of ageing. You can get more of it in egg yolks and broccoli. Zinc aids in wound healing and reduces inflammation. Find it in seafood such as oysters. Sulfur-rich foods are necessary for making new collagen and keeping skin looking youthful. Think garlic, onions, brussels sprouts, broccoli and kale. Biotin helps activate enzymes which regulate fatty acid metabolism, protecting cells against damage and water loss. Biotin also prevents scaly, red, inflamed and dry skin. Add organ meats, egg yolks, Swiss chard and romaine lettuce, almonds and walnuts to your meal planner. For more information or to contact Anthia, telephone (02) 9380 7863 or visit ovvioorganics.com.au