It is often said that the skin reflects what might be happening within the body. Of course, we should consider genetics, hormones and nutrition when it comes to skin health but there is also another crucial factor at play - looking at the health of the gut and the trillions of microbes that live in our gut (aka the gut microbiota). In fact, many different skin conditions from acne through to rosacea, psoriasis, eczema and even premature ageing can be markedly influenced by the health of our gut. Not really that surprising when you understand that the second largest microbiome in the body after the gut is the skin!
Unfortunately, the word bacteria can be associated with ‘unclean’ especially with relation to the skin. However, it is important to realise that most of the bacteria that live in and on us are actually really good for us and necessary for keeping us feeling, and it seems looking, full of vitality.
Myriad skin conditions such as acne vulgaris, rosacea and eczema can often be linked with imbalances in the gut microbiome. Our gut microbiome has a crucial role in helping to manage inflammation in the entire body, including the skin.
In addition, the gut microbiome is an essential part of ensuring that our immune system responds appropriately to potential threats and doesn’t ‘overreact’ to those that are not (which is often the case with certain immune related skin conditions such as psoriasis and atopic eczema).
And of course, the foods we eat, or don’t eat, can have an impact on the health of our skin too. Having a healthy gut microbiome is a vital part of helping us to break down and absorb nutrients from our food since our gut microbes produce certain substances to assist with digestion. So, whilst on the face of it we might be eating a rich and nutritious diet we may not be reaping all the benefits if we have a gut microbiome that is, well, less than enriched. It is not therefore accurate to say you are what you eat, but more you are what you and your gut microbiome absorb.