Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Essential skin oil
Surprise Surprise fat is good for you, well the right fat that is. The right kind of fat is totally essential for optimal health, as well as good skin tone and texture. Yes that’s right fat is good for you – so keep an eye out on the amount of polyunsaturated fats or oils as theses help give you your omega 6 and 3 intake.
The key to your omega intake is to try and get both in at a balanced amount. Studies have shown that diets rich in the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid are associated with less skin dryness and thinning.
Omega 3
Important omega-3's include α-linolenic acid (ALA) {found flax and pumpkin, as well as walnuts}, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) {found in fish oils}, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA are essential for healthy skin and hair, and helps regulate oil production in your skin. Having plenty of this essential fatty acid in your body keeps your skin hydrated and prevents it from drying and flaking.
Omega-3 fatty acids can also help protect your skin from damage, by means of acting as an antioxidant that protects your body against these substances. Omega 3 not only protect against sun damage, they actually help repair it. When you're exposed to the sun's harmful UV rays, EPA can help prevent the release of enzymes that destroy collagen, warding off sagging skin and wrinkles [source: Health Magazine].
Omega 3 have great anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3s can also help relieve skin conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema.
While you're using omega-3 fatty acids to keep your own hair and skin looking radiant.
Omega 6
omega-6 helps to promote hair growth, support skin health, improve nerve and vascular function, and acts as a natural antioxidant
Although we need these essential lipids, omega-6 fatty acids are far too plentiful in modern diets. Omega-6 fatty acids can be found in leafy vegetables, seeds, nuts, grains and vegetable oils (corn, safflower, soybean, cottonseed, sesame, sunflower).
How to improve your skin with the omega’s
Step 1
Determine the recommended amount of omega-3 fatty acids you should consume daily. According to MayoClinic.com, average adults with no history of heart disease should consider consuming between 0.8 to 1.1 grams daily. For youth under the age of 18, there is no established amount, so you should consult a physician for a suitable dosage depending on the age and weight of the child.
Step 2
Consume fish and plant sources of omega’s.
Fish – omega 3
- Herring
- mackerel
- salmon
Amount 2 servings a week
Plant –omega 6
- Flax seed oil or seeds
- Soya bean
- pumpkin seed oil or seeds
- walnut seed oil or seeds
Adding a tablespoon of seeds or nuts to your diet daily
Precautions
If you are taking certain heart medications or suffering from a bleeding disorder (such as hemophilia or von Willebrand's), you should not be taking DHA/EPA supplements except under the advice of a physician. Supplements containing EPA are not recommended for infants or small children without healthcare provider surveillance because they can upset the balance between DHA and EPA during early development. This suggests that pregnant women should also be cautious about taking fish oil supplements and clear their use with their OB/GYN or nurse midwife. Fish oil may be associated with side effects such as abdominal discomfort and loose stools. In addition, they may lengthen bleeding time slightly. Those taking blood-thinning medications should discuss the use of fish oil capsules with their medical professional. Consumption of DHA/EPA may also increase antioxidant requirements in the body. Taking extra vitamin E along with omega-3 may be helpful. Consult your healthcare provider before adding any new herbs or supplements to your existing medication regime.(http://www.dermaharmony.com/skinnutrition/omega3.aspx)
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