How Skin Relates to Gut Health

Everyone wants a young, vibrant and healthy skin. However, many people fail to recognize that skin health starts in the gut. The skin is a topical organ that often produces exterior symptoms. Instead of treating skin issues like acne, psoriasis, rosacea and eczema as isolated problems, it is important to recognize that these conditions may instead be symptomatic of inflammation lurking deep within the body.

Did you know the skin is the body’s largest organ? It covers an average surface area of 21 square feet and composes as much as 10 percent of a person’s total body weight. Like other systems within the body, the skin is interconnected with a person’s overall health. That is why when patients come to us for aesthetic skin treatments, we may also recommend addressing underlying gut health problems, as doing so can maximize a person’s cosmetic outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the gut microbiome related to skin health?

The gut microbiome refers to the balance of bacteria within the gut. A healthy gut contains healthy flora that help prevent inflammation. If the microbiome is out of balance, it can directly influence the health of the skin. An imbalanced microbiome may be caused by a number of issues, such as a bacterial or parasitic infection, an overgrowth of bacteria (dysbiosis) or inflammation caused by food sensitivities.

What is leaky gut syndrome?

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition in which the intestinal walls develop increased permeability and leak toxins into the body. Many people who have this condition also have one or more systemic health problems, as well as common skin issues like eczema and psoriasis. Like the gut walls, the skin is also highly permeable and can manifest symptoms of inflammation and toxicity at the surface of the body. Leaky gut is known to create autoimmune responses that may result in breakouts and rashes on the surface of the skin.

What steps can I take to heal my gut and improve my skin?

Better skin health often starts with gut-healing foods. There are many foods that help support a healthy microbiome, including kefir, fermented vegetables, and certain types of fats like coconut oil and cod liver oil. It is equally important to avoid inflammatory foods that are known to damage the gut and in turn cause problems with the skin. Examples include highly processed foods and foods that are high in sugar and simple carbohydrates.

We recommend visiting with a physician who understands the gut-skin connection and can help you begin the path to healing and wellness. If you live in the area and desire a clearer, glowing complexion, we can help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and find out how lifestyle changes and detoxification can transform your skin and body from the inside out.