THE BEAUTY OF HEALTH: HOW SUPPLEMENTS CAN HELP YOUR SKIN AND WELL-BEING

It’s pretty obvious that working out regularly and drinking plenty of water is good for you… check. But which supplements to take to help bring out the glow in your skin and improve your energy can be a little more daunting. Every person needs to figure out the best combination for their body, but I want to give you a bit of insight about what I have found that works for me. Not only have the following supplements / vitamins improved my skin, but they have also helped with my migraines. So, this is my very personal protocol… don’t think of it as a prescription, but glean what you wish… Tumeric: Tumeric is a root that has been used for 4,000 years to treat a variety of conditions. Studies show that turmeric may help fight infections and some cancers, reduce inflammation, and treat digestive problems (University of Maryland Medical Center). The University of Maryland’s Medical Center also states that turmeric’s powerful antioxidant properties fight cancer-causing free radicals, reducing or preventing some of the damage they can cause. I have personally found that it helps me recover more quickly from workouts and my skin seems less puffy (especially after a few cocktails). I believe its long-term benefits are the most important investment and will continue to be a devotee. I take one New Chapter Tumeric Force Supplement daily. Fish Oil / Vitamin D: I was able to find these two supplements combined into a tasty mango liquid form (Barlean’s Omega Swirl Fish Oil with Vitamin D). Like Tumeric, Fish Oil has a number of anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. It is helpful in treating dry skin and Psoriasis. The Omega3 Fatty Acids are major player here; they boost the growth of enzymes in the body to produce more collagen and elastin protein. They also kill off the ‘bad’ enzymes that lower the collagen levels in the body. Ideal levels of of collagen and elastin are necessary to avoid wrinkling of the skin. Most Americans are deficient in Vitamin D, which helps with energy levels. I can personally see the difference in my energy on the days that I forget to take the supplement. Having sufficient energy ensures that you can take care of yourself on a daily basis and make good choices. I have one tablespoon of the Barlean’s liquid each night. B-Complex Vitamin: B-complex vitamins refers to all of the known essential water-soluble vitamins except for vitamin C. These include thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), biotin, folic acid and the cobalamins (vitamin B12) (more info: e-vitamins). B-complex vitamins promote healthy hair, skin and nails as they work together to counteract damage caused by free radicals. Deficiencies of any of these B vitamins can lead to dry, grey skin, dermatitis, wrinkles, acne, rashes, hair loss and weak, splitting nails. Vitamin B12 helps to regulate your skin’s pigment production and location, preventing hyperpigmentation – the darkening of skin in certain parts of your body. Vitamin B5 can help to minimize acne by helping the body to breakdown oils in the form of triglycerides and cholesterol, whereas Vitamin B2 has been the most helpful of this group with my migraines (More info: University of Maryland Medical Center) I take Pure B Complex Liquid in the morning.