The world is going through a rough period now as our daily routines have been turned upside down. Anxiety levels have risen as people are stressed about how the pandemic will unfold in the days to come. For some people, this has taken a toll on their skin, causing breakouts and oily skin.
Irregular sleeping and eating habits have increased stress levels, causing spots to appear on the skin. On a hormonal level, stress releases cortisol, giving rise to inflammation and oil production.
Another factor is poor gut health, which can reflect on the skin. So, making a few lifestyle changes and eating food to support your gut health might improve the condition of your skin.
However, as a direct result of SARS-CoV-2 infection, skin lesions have been observed. Doctors are still investigating the underlying complications that cause these rashes in COVID-19 patients. They suspect it could be a reaction to an overworked immune system, co-infections or medical complications.
For whatever reason, managing your skin and replenishing it with nutrition could protect it amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some simple tips you can implement during the lockdown to protect your skin.
Get More Vitamin D
Vitamin D aids cell development in skin, which is the largest organ in the body, and also prevents inflammation. With restricted access to the outdoors, the body may not get the required vitamin D, which could lead to skin health suffering
Consume food with vitamin D such as salmon, eggs and mushrooms, among other food options that aid the absorption of the essential vitamin. Consult your doctor in case you want to consider supplementation.
Get Enough Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids may help fight red and itchy skin by providing moisture to the skin. Omega-3 supplements also improve skin elasticity and contribute to younger looking skin, while also replenishing your hair and nails, too. Fish such as salmon and sardines should be eaten twice or three times per week to get enough of the vitamin, which is said to boost collagen production.
Eat Your Vegetables
Eating vegetables rich in fiber flushes out the toxins in the body by improving the function of the digestive system. Removing toxins could stop breakouts from reoccurring and provide sufficient nutrition to the skin.
Stay Away from Sugary Drinks and Alcohol
While staying at home for long hours, it may be tempting to drink one too many glasses of wine. That could unfortunately trigger skin inflammation. Sugar-sweetened beverages and snacks have the same impact, leading to flare ups. Also, sugary drinks increase blood sugar levels, causing a host of other health issues.
