by Asha Richards
Women’s Health Expert
We are often asked about how to manage skin problems, naturally. Whether you struggle with acne, rosacea, or those frustrating premenstrual breakouts, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explore the link between gut health, hormones, and healthier, happier skin.
The Gut-Skin Axis
See, your gut and skin are intricately connected. Your gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota, which play a crucial role in maintaining overall health, including that of skin. When the balance of these microorganisms is disrupted, it can trigger inflammation which can result in various skin complaints, such as breakouts, acne and rosacea.[1-2]
Hormones and Skin Health
Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate various bodily functions, including those related to the skin. Fluctuations in hormone levels can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to premenstrual breakouts and other hormonal skin issues. [3]
We understand the frustration that comes with premenstrual breakouts. During the menstrual cycle, hormone levels, such as oestrogen and progesterone, fluctuate. These hormonal shifts can increase sebum production, clog pores, and result in pesky pimples. [3]
Maintaining hormonal balance is crucial in managing premenstrual breakouts. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can contribute to stable hormone levels and promote healthier skin.
Nurturing Your Gut for Healthy Skin
Disease prevention is what first got me into Naturopathy. My dad passed away from cancer when I was quite young. As a teen a beautiful First Nations woman taught me many things about diet, lifestyle and how they can help prevent disease. This stirred up a deep passion in me and I began my tertiary studies with the hope to educate and empower people on how they can prevent lifestyle diseases as
Now that we understand the gut-skin connection and the role hormones play in our skin’s health, it’s time to take action and nurture our gut for healthier skin from within.
- Eat Gut-Friendly Foods
A diet that supports your gut health can do wonders for your skin. Opt for fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as they promote a healthy gut environment. Probiotic-rich foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha introduce beneficial bacteria to your gut, aiding in digestion and overall skin health. [1-2]
- Stay Hydrated
Hydration is vital for both your gut and skin. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins, promotes regular bowel movements, and keeps your skin well-hydrated. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day (around 2-3 litres) and reduce your consumption of sugary beverages. [1]
- Manage Stress
Chronic stress can disrupt the balance of your gut microbiota and hormone balance, leading to skin problems. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, engaging in hobbies you enjoy, and obtaining a personalised supplement regime from one of our naturopaths. Your gut and skin will thank you.[4]
Understanding the connection between gut health, hormones, and skin problems empowers us to make informed choices for our overall well-being. By adopting a holistic approach that nurtures our gut and balances our hormones, we can pave the way to healthier, happier skin. Remember, you don’t have to face skin problems alone—our team of experts is here to support you every step of the way. So, take that leap and book your appointment today. Your skin deserves it.
[1] Mahmud, M.R., et al. Impact of gut microbiome on skin health: gut-skin axis observed through the lenses of therapeutics and skin diseases. Gut Microbes, 2022. PMID: 35866234.
[2] Dreno, B., et al. The Skin Microbiome: A New Actor in Inflammatory Acne. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020. PMID: 32910436.
[3] Bansal, P., et al. A Prospective Study Examining Trigger Factors and Hormonal Abnormalities in Adult Female Acne. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2020. PMID: 32832440.
[4] Jusuf, N.K., et al. Correlation Between Stress Scale and Serum Substance P Level in Acne Vulgaris. International Journal of General Medicine, 2021. PMID: 33688239.