Skin:
How the gut microbiome affects your skin
Did you know that your skin’s health is intimately connected to the state of your gut? Disruptions in the gut’s microbial community can trigger skin issues like acne, eczema, and rosacea. Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is essential for achieving glowing and healthy skin. At myFloraScan, our goal is to help you comprehend this vital link and enhance your skin’s wellness with our comprehensive gut microbiome test.
In a nutshell: The gut microbiome & your skin
The human intestine stretches more than 8 meters in length and is home to over 39 trillion microorganisms. Together, these microorganisms create the gut microbiome, or intestinal flora. This complex system is crucial not only for digestion but also impacts skin health. When the gut barrier is compromised, inflammatory agents and metabolic byproducts produced by these microorganisms can affect skin conditions like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne, and rosacea. Therefore, maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is essential for overall well-being.
What the gut microbiome and your skin have in common
The intestinal lining and the skin directly interact with the external environment, acting as shields for internal organs against harmful agents. Both surfaces host fungi, viruses, and bacteria, which can sometimes trigger inflammation. These two systems are rich in nerve fibers and communicate with each other through hormones, the immune system, and metabolic processes.
The influence of the gut microbiome on your skin
What has a positive effect on the skin?
The health of your gut microbiome significantly influences the condition of your skin. Here are some specific ways it impacts you:
Inflammation: When the gut microbiome is out of balance, it can trigger inflammation throughout the body, which can also worsen skin conditions.
Nutrient absorption: A well-functioning gut microbiome aids in the proper absorption of nutrients vital for skin health. Deficiencies in these essential nutrients can lead to skin issues.
Immune system: A large portion of your immune system resides in the gut. A balanced gut microbiome can enhance your immune system’s effectiveness, helping to shield your skin from infections.
Taking care of your skin is crucial, especially since heavily scented soaps or creams with artificial fragrances and antiseptics can upset its natural balance. Often, simplicity is key. Products with a neutral pH can benefit your skin’s health. In our blog article “Why natural cosmetics are healthier for your microbiome!” you can find out more about what you should also pay attention to with natural cosmetics and why it is essential to pay attention to the ingredients in your skincare.
Nutrition significantly influences both the gut microbiome and skin health. Consuming trans fats, simple sugars, alcohol, and fast food can harm the gut lining and negatively affect the skin. Additionally, omega-6 fatty acids, like those found in sunflower oil, can contribute to inflammation.
Selenium, zinc, and turmeric offer protection against oxidative damage to the skin. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, hemp seeds, and linseed oil, aid in the healing of wounds. Foods rich in prebiotics, like oatmeal, along with polyphenol-rich options, such as berries, help reduce inflammation. For those seeking ideas for skin-nourishing meals, we suggest our recipe. carrot-turmeric soup. This soup has a positive effect on the skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Because nutrition plays such an important role, with the myFloraScan gut microbiome analysis we not only provide insights into the microbial composition of your gut, but also offer personalised nutritional recommendations based on the individual needs of your gut bacteria. This allows you to take targeted measures to optimise your gut microbiome and strengthen your skin health at the same time.
Discover your microbiome with our test
Using our test, you can enhance your health and overall quality of life sustainably. The test identifies the bacteria present in your gut and their functions. Based on your results, you will receive customized suggestions to improve your microbiome through dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
Blog articles on the topic of the gut microbiome & immune system
If you would like to find out more about the gut microbiome and the immune system, we can recommend our blog where you will find lots of interesting articles on the subject.
