Nuts - Are They Healthy Snacks for Acne Sufferers?

For decades, the link between acne and nutrition has been ignored. Fortunately, growing research has thrown light on the indirect effects of food on acne. You've probably heard of avoiding or including certain food groups to address your skin problems. One of the common advices is to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and snack on healthy foods like nuts. Nuts are a favorite for many, be it almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, peanuts and macadamia, just to name a few. At the same time, many a people may advice you that nuts are bad for acne. That's surely confusing! So, just read on to know how nuts affect acne treatment- whether they are good or bad for acne prone skin.

In general, a low-glycemic diet with vegetables, fruits and lean protein will give you natural clear skin. Nuts are excellent sources of plant protein, a vital nutrient for production of collagen and elastin, which are the key components of your skin. They are rich in antioxidant vitamins, such as Vitamin A, E and C and minerals like zinc and folic acid. Studies show that antioxidants combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. They help regulate the insulin levels, which in turn control the acne-causing hormone called androgen. So, how can nuts be bad for acne? Though nuts have many skin healthy properties, their inclusion in your diet depends on many factors.

First, let's recall how acne occurs, i.e. excessive sebum in your skin mixes with dead skin cells and clogs your skin pores. Bacterial growth in these clogged pores results in inflammation and skin eruption. In view of this, the possible downside of eating nuts is that they are hard to digest because of their rich protein and fat content; this may trigger your immune system to discharge antibodies that result in inflammation of your sebaceous glands. Is there a way to address this problem? Yes, you can eat roasted nuts because roasting allows for decomposition of the protein. Or, you may eat nuts that have been soaked for a few hours as they aid in digestion. Nuts have been prevalent in traditional foods, but most of us fail to notice that they were seldom consumed raw - soaked nuts were the norm in those days. In case, you are allergic to certain nuts, you may have to monitor your skin over a course of time and get your doctor's opinion.

Apart from protein, nuts contain healthful vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids (EFAs). They contain both Omega-3 and omega-6 EFAs. Omega-3 EFAs are anti-inflammatory and contribute to hormonal balance. Omega-6 EFAs, however, are considered bad fats, implying that the ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 plays a vital role in determining the health benefits of nuts. You must choose nuts that are high in Omega-3 and low in Omega-6. Or, restore the EFA balance by consuming Omega-3 supplements to counter any excessive Omega-6 intake. Flaxseed and fish oil are some of the Omega-3 foods that can help you with this.

If you're serious about conquering your acne problem, the most logical step would be to understand how your body functions. Clearade reviews teach you how acne vitamins can solve the problem from the inside out. Remember that external treatments are only short term. Of course, a good cleansing routine must be a part of your skin care regime, but monitoring your diet, nutrient deficiencies and hydration is even more important.

MIJ Sadique is specializing in skin issues and has made several studies about acne and acne remedies. He has more resources about scientifically proven acne home remedies, including Clearade acne treatment.
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Skin Healthy Properties of Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil is a popular health supplement available in the form of capsules or pills. As indicated by the name, it is obtained from the liver of a codfish. And like most other fish oils, cod liver oil is widely touted for being rich in good fats that are heart healthy. But, have you given thought to the role of its ingredients in skin health, more precisely acne cure? It may sound surprising, but dermatologists and health experts recommend a daily dose of cod liver oil to clear up and prevent acne breakouts. So, let's explore the skin healthy properties of its nutrients.

Cod liver oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids in the form of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These fatty acids, which are devoid of the risks of saturated fats and trans fats, regulate the elimination of toxins from your body. They have remarkable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics, which discourage acne formation. In addition, they control the production of hormones called androgens, which are responsible for hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands - the hyperactivity which leads to oily skin.

Good fats are not the only healthful ingredients of cod liver oil; it is also a recommended source of Vitamin A, D and E. The perfect proportion of Vitamin A and E in cod liver oil makes it an excellent supplement for skin care. Perhaps, you've heard that Vitamin A corrects dry and scaly skin and Vitamin E retains your skin's moisture. Further, these antioxidant vitamins neutralize free radicals, i.e. unstable oxygen molecules, and protect the skin's elastin and collagen structures from inflammation due to oxidative damages. In a nutshell, cod liver oil improves the hydration, strength and elasticity of your skin. And, you'll be able to take a natural approach to get rid of acne by equipping your body with acne fighting nutrients. Clearade acne treatment is an excellent example to explain the role of acne vitamins in treating your pimples and comedones. It actually helps your body get the right dosages of certain vitamins that improve your skin's oil metabolizing abilities, so as to deter acne.

Well, how much cod liver oil do you need? And how should you consume it? The recommended daily dosage is about one teaspoon or one capsule, which can provide 400 IUs of Vitamin D and 1,500 mg of EPA. The oil is generally available as a gel capsule or liquid. If you're very taste conscious, you may swallow a capsule instead of consuming the liquid. The liquid is actually cheaper. And flavored oils are making their way to the market to make the liquid form palatable; lemon flavor is widely recommended. Prolonged use of cod liver oil has no reported side effects, but it is advisable to keep in touch with a dermatologist to make sure that you're on track.

Perhaps, you are aware of the fact that the 'good fats' present in cod liver oil are generally lacking in the western diet. But, they are critical not only for acne treatment but also for your overall health. As they are not found in sufficient quantities in any other food source, the best advice is to take supplements.

MIJ Sadique is specializing in skin issues and has made several studies about acne and acne remedies. He has more resources about scientifically proven acne vitamins, as well as pantothenic acid acne treatment.
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Neem - An Effective Acne Treatment

The leaf of the neem tree is considered to be the cornerstone of Ayurveda, one of the oldest medical systems of the world. You might have come across soaps, creams and toothpastes that contain neem as the active ingredient. Every part of the tree - leaf, bark, root and seed - has therapeutic properties. Neem is an excellent remedy for various skin diseases and problems, including acne. Regardless of the type of acne you are suffering from, be it whiteheads, blackheads, pimples or papules, neem can play an efficacious role in acne removal and control. Let's get into the details!

What's the reason behind the hype of neem as an effective acne remedy? The antioxidant, astringent, antiseptic, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties of neem are responsible for its therapeutic properties. The antioxidant content of neem is about hundred times more effective than that of antioxidant-rich foods like broccoli or blue berries. Antioxidants are known for their ability to neutralize harmful free radicals and boost the immune system. In terms of skin health, they delay the formation of wrinkles and fight inflammation, which triggers acne breakouts. Neem leaf contains a compound called quercetin, which combats acne-induced irritation and itching, by soothing and cooling the skin. It also contains salicylic acid, which helps reduce redness and inflammation. Neem oil, an extract of neem seeds, is an excellent skin nourishing agent owing to its fatty acid and hydrate content. Neem's blood purifying property also contributes to combat acne.

How can I use neem for my acne problem? For centuries, crushed neem leaves have been used to treat acne and improve the skin texture. Alternatively, dried neem leaves can be ground into a fine powder, mixed with water and applied on the skin. The powder is also used in the preparation of supplements. You can prepare a face mask by mixing betonite clay with a few drops of neem oil. Apply the mixture on your face and wash off after ten minutes. Or, you can dab neem oil on the affected area a few times daily to cure acne. Why not try a ready-to-use neem spray that can be simply sprayed on the affected area? After the spray, you may use a neem-based lotion to moisturize your skin and retain its suppleness. A lot of ready-to-use neem products are available in the market. These include neem acne soaps, neem lotions, neem capsules, neem tea and neem powder.

When taken internally, a neem supplement works as a detoxifying agent and blood purifier; this in turn helps maintain a natural clear skin that exudes a healthy glow. Reputable acne products and supplements administer the active ingredients to your body in the right dosage to bring about positive results. For instance, Clearade acne treatment helps eliminate acne by administering acne vitamins in proper doses. Eating a few neem leaves on a regular basis helps boost your immunity.

Neem, one of the most effective home remedies for acne, is virtually free from any side effects. It provides a mild and safe treatment that not only helps your skin recover quickly but also prevents the recurrence of acne. Apart from adhering to an effective herbal remedy, such as neem, you must be cautious with other habits, such as eating healthy, drinking enough water, exercising regularly and maintaining a clean skin-care routine. During the course of your treatment, be careful not to use your nails to itch or squeeze your pimples.

If you are resolute, you're sure to experience the best results.

MIJ Sadique is specializing in skin issues and has made several studies about acne and acne remedies. He has more resources about scientifically proven acne vitamins, as well as pantothenic acid acne treatment.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MIJ_Sadique