
- Hydrate! When cells are dehydrated, they lose their plumpness and structure. Make sure you are drinking at least 1.5 quarts of water a day (no caffeinated beverage!). Caffeine dehydrates the body and especially the skin.
- Eat foods rich in essential fatty acids (good fats) such as fish, nuts and seeds. The Omega 3 Fatty Acids are essential for healthy skin cells. For more severe conditions, consider supplementing with fish, flaxseed or evening primrose oil.
- Look into poor calcium metabolism - calcium is a drying mineral, and if it's not
processed properly, it can get dumped into the "wrong places", including the skin. You can find out by having a hair analysis done. Calcium has to be balanced with Magnesium and Vitamin D. These minerals are important to the elasicity and hydration of your skin.
- Look into your thyroid health, as low thyroid hormone level can cause many
symptoms, including dry skin. This test must be performed at a lab in conjunction with your doctor. If your thyroid is normal but in the lower half of the normal range, foods that support the thyroid may be of benefit to you. Foods that contain iodine such as seafood or sea vegetables, and iodized salt all provide small amounts of this trace mineral to support healthy thyroid function.
- Did I mention hydration? The single most important thing you can do for your skin is to drink adequate amounts of water, especially during the hot summer months when sun exposure and heat dry us out. Fresh water is made better if it is alkalyzed, but water without sugars, artificial sweeteners, or caffeine is the foundation of healthy skin and a healthy body.