Although many people may be aware that their diet influences more than just a number on the scale, it may be hard to discern what information out there is legit, and which is just compelling advertising for a specific store or product. That’s why at Art of Dermatology, we bring you the honest truth from our expert board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jessica Krant.
Because nutrition, skin health, and your appearance are all highly intricate and deeply personal concerns, the best approach to achieving a better appearance is with a personal consultation with Dr. Krant, who can give you an examination and prescribe a plan to help you look younger through your diet.
The Best Anti-Aging Diet
Research has proven that the best diet to look younger is one that is anti-inflammatory, or one that reduces the body’s inflammation response. And the most anti-inflammatory diet is a plant-based diet. This is because the minerals, fiber, vitamins, and nutrients that a balanced, plant-based diet provides help keep your gut microbiome healthy, while avoiding the allergens and irritants that can accompany animal proteins.
An anti-aging diet can help you look younger by packing your daily intake of food with powerful antioxidants like Vitamins C and E. It also helps prevent glycation, which is when sugars get into the skin and cause cross-linking among collagen molecules, which damages and destroys them. Anti-inflammatory elements of an anti-aging diet include spices such as turmeric, cloves, ginger, and garlic, as well as green and black tea, and a healthy amount of fiber.
Anti-Aging Foods
Specific foods that you can incorporate into your diet to begin boosting your anti-aging benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Spinach
- Ginger
- Flaxseed
- Pepper
- Turmeric
- Lemon
- Pear
- Mint
Each of these foods provides specific benefits, and often complement one another when used in the same recipe.
Transitioning to an Anti-Aging Diet
It’s been many people’s experience who have tried shifting to a plant-based or high-fiber diet that they experience uncomfortable side effects, namely bloating, when making the change. This is a normal consequence of suddenly changing your diet, as your microbiome is used to a certain type of foods, which it needs time to adjust to the new ingredients you’re introducing to your stomach.
Dr. Krant recommends planning a gradual shift from what’s called the standard American diet (SAD) to a more anti-aging one, saying you need “at least three weeks of gradually adding more fiber,” and cooking fruits and vegetables as opposed to eating them raw for a more comfortable experience.
Acne
For people struggling with chronic acne breakouts, Dr. Krant says, “Actually reducing or cutting out dairy, especially teenagers, may control or greatly reduce stubborn acne.” This is because dairy contains hormones and inflammatory molecules that affect the skin in different ways and directly trigger acne growth. Not only dairy, but also whey protein, found in many protein bars and shakes, is a component of dairy products that contributes to acne as well, so it’s best to avoid these products when looking to reduce your acne.
Consultation with Dr. Krant of Art of Dermatology
Dr. Jessica Krant is a board-certified dermatologist through the American Board of Dermatology, as well as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at SUNY Downstate and a certified life coach. Her medical background and training in lifestyle medicine make her a perfect partner in your journey toward a healthier complexion and younger-looking skin. To learn more about your options for professional skincare treatments, contact us by filling out our online contact form.
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