I know how pregnancy cravings can make it difficult to resist junk food. Trust me; I have been there! But during pregnancy, your diet becomes all the more important because not only does it significantly impact you, but it can also impact the development of your little one. Additionally, it can affect your skin health as well......READ THE FULL STORY>>.....READ THE FULL STORY>>
When you are pregnant, your body’s number one priority is supplying nutrients to the growing baby. And therefore, if your nutritional supplies are not stocked up or replenished regularly, your own health may see an impact, especially your skin. Eating skin-friendly foods during pregnancy can not only enhance your glow but also supply vital energy and nutrients to both you and your unborn child during this crucial time.
But before we look at how food can impact your skincare during pregnancy, let’s understand what junk food is and how it can affect your health.
How Terrible is Junk Food for Me and My Little One?
To understand how bad junk food is for you, let’s look at what is categorised as junk food. These foods are fried and/or processed food high in calories, salt and/or sugar with no or minimal nutritional value. Not only are they devoid of necessary nutrients which aid your health and well-being during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but they also don’t provide the nutrition needed to support the growth and development of your baby’s body.
In fact, they are often rich in carbohydrates and fat, which is why regular consumption of junk food can result in excessive gestational weight gain, making you susceptible to developing gestational diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. A diet high in sugar and processed foods can also lead to inflammation, acne breakouts, and premature skin ageing.
Excessive consumption of junk food has also been linked to the increased likelihood of complications such as stillbirth, miscarriage, sleep apnea, preterm labour, and congenital disabilities in the baby. Additionally, a high sugar intake during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of allergies and allergic asthma in children. Furthermore, regular consumption of fatty foods and added sugars can result in impaired peripheral insulin and mitochondrial dysfunction, which may be passed down through multiple generations.
Studies indicate that a mother’s diet, particularly one rich in high-fat foods, can influence the food preferences of her baby, potentially leading to a preference for unhealthy, fatty meals. But it’s not all doom. Researchers have also identified late pregnancy as a critical period to address and reverse this potential addiction in children to junk food.
Can Food Really Impact My Skin Health During Pregnancy?
In the most simple terms, yes! During your pregnancy, your hormones can play havoc with your skin, leading to a host of skin health problems, including acne, stretch marks, melasma, and more. Some women also experience dry skin with intense itching and rashes. While skincare safe for pregnancy can be one way to care for your skin health, it is essential to consider your food intake as it can significantly impact your skin health.
A lot has also been said about the gut-skin axis. To explain it simply, the skin can often be an incredible barometer for what’s going on inside your gut. The gut microbiome is a crucial regulator of the immune system, as it aims to maintain homeostasis by communicating with tissues and organs in a bidirectional manner. Therefore getting your digestive health in order is essential to experience clear and glowing skin.
So What Foods Are Good for Me?
Hydration: Staying adequately hydrated is essential for healthy skin. Drinking sufficient water helps maintain skin moisture, prevent dryness, and promote overall skin health. It is especially important during pregnancy when the body’s fluid needs are higher. Fluids in the form of buttermilk, fruit juices, vegetable juices, and coconut water can help keep your skin supple and nourished.
Vegetables, Fruits, and Nuts: A good mix of vegetables and fruits can help you with some much-needed nutrients but also help repair skin damage. Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits and leafy greens like kale and spinach are excellent sources of vitamin C, known as a top anti-ageing superfood. Vitamin C is also essential for collagen synthesis, providing structure and elasticity to the skin.
Spinach is especially beneficial for skin health as it has properties that combat different skin cancers. Carrots, rich in vitamin A, can reduce the risk of skin cancer cell formation and even help prevent minor acne breakouts during pregnancy. Additionally, incorporating almonds or avocados into your diet, which are high in vitamin E, can contribute to combating sun-damaged skin. Fresh seasonal fruits and salads also help maintain regular bowels, which is the next step to radiant skin. Constipation, clogged intestines, and flatulence cause dullness on the face.
Whole Grains: During pregnancy, nourishing your body with vital nutrients is essential, and incorporating whole grains into your diet offers multiple benefits. Whole grains such as whole wheat bread, oatmeal, quinoa, barley, and millet are rich in B vitamins, iron, fibre, and selenium. These nutrients promote skin elasticity and shield your skin from environmental damage. Moreover, whole grains provide essential fibre, folic acid, iron, and other vitamins and minerals that contribute to the healthy development of your baby. Additionally, consuming whole grains helps you feel satiated for extended periods, supporting your overall well-being during pregnancy.
Healthy Fats: Is your belly feeling dry, itchy, and red during pregnancy? Vegetable oils rich in omega-6 fatty acids can be the salve you need as it is a natural moisturiser that can be hugely beneficial for people with dry, flaky and itchy skin.
A diet that includes low-glycemic index foods, such as whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables, may also help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the severity of hormonal acne. Maintaining good skin health through a nutrient-rich diet can potentially support the skin’s elasticity and minimise the appearance of stretch marks.
Following a healthy diet is the best thing you can do for yourself, your baby, and your skin. But I get that it can be overwhelming. Consult a healthcare professional or a qualified nutritionist for personalised advice about your diet when you are pregnant. These tailored recommendations can go a long way in keeping you in the pink of health….READ FULL CONTENT FROM THE SOURCE
