Many individuals are reluctant to embrace the signs of aging without resistance. Fortunately, we now have a range of ingestible products that can assist in slowing down the aging process. Specifically designed for skin health, nutricosmetics have emerged as a powerful ally in the quest for timeless beauty.
If the concept of nutricosmetics is unfamiliar to you, you’re not alone. Nutricosmetics encompass a growing assortment of consumable products, both edible and drinkable, that are packed with particular nutrients aimed at promoting vibrant and healthy skin, effectively nurturing it from within.
Although the term nutricosmetics may be new to many of us, their presence in health stores is anticipated to increase in the coming years.
This trend has already gained significant traction in Europe and Japan, and is now starting to take root in North America. A report from Grail Research published in February 2010 projected that sales could reach an impressive US$2.5 billion by 2012.
Antioxidants: our first line of defense
Numerous skin health products include antioxidants, which play a vital role in mitigating damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules that our bodies naturally produce as byproducts of metabolic processes.
Common antioxidants beneficial to the skin include vitamins A, C, and E, along with essential minerals like selenium and zinc.
Nonetheless, assuming that taking antioxidant supplements while consuming an unhealthy diet will stave off aging is a misconception. Alan C. Logan, ND, emphasizes that the efficacy of antioxidants relies heavily on our dietary choices. The author of The Clear Skin Diet and Your Skin, Younger states, “This effective antioxidant defense system is entirely dependent on diet.”
“Nutritional components ignite and fuel the activities of antioxidant enzymes, while the second line of defense, comprised of non-enzymatic antioxidant protection [vitamins and minerals], is sourced directly from our food and beverages.”
Anti-inflammatories: our secondary line of defense
Nutrition expert and television personality Julie Daniluk, RHN, identifies inflammation as an often-overlooked cause of not just chronic pain but skin disorders like acne and psoriasis. “Inflammation has a profound connection to our dietary intake,” Daniluk, author of Meals That Heal Inflammation, remarks. “Over 70% of our immune system is located along our digestive tract.”
She highlights two powerful omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acids (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA), known for their ability to significantly mitigate inflammation, commonly found in cold-water fish such as salmon, anchovies, mackerel, and sardines.
“While the body can create hormones that combat inflammation, it requires these essential fatty acids as building blocks from our diet,” Logan adds. “As many North Americans do not frequently consume ocean fish, supplementation may be advisable. For optimal skin protection against aging, a daily intake of 1,000 mg of EPA is recommended.”
Emerging skin-enhancing ingredients
Recent advancements in skin research have revealed various new additives that can significantly benefit skin health. Here are some noteworthy examples.
Ceramides
These natural substances aid in maintaining skin hydration by restoring the skin’s barrier and can predominantly be found in rice bran and wheat germ oils.
Cocoa
Rich in flavonoids, cocoa contains more of these beneficial compounds per serving than black and green teas, as well as red wine. Research indicates that cocoa can enhance skin hydration, thickness, and elasticity, potentially offering protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays over time.
Marine fish collagen
Studies suggest that ingesting fish collagen can elevate skin moisture levels, smoothen skin texture by reducing micro-relief furrows, and even stall the formation of deeper wrinkles.
Lycopene
This antioxidant, found naturally in various red fruits like tomatoes, melons, papayas, and pink grapefruits, is known for shielding skin cells from UV radiation damage.
As the buzz around nutricosmetics grows in the realms of nutrition and cosmetics, remember that healthy living translates into healthy skin.
Consider nutricosmetics as a dual-purpose approach, providing necessary nutrients for overall health while simultaneously acting as protectors for your skin.
This strategy offers a promising solution in the ongoing battle against the signs of aging.
