Great news! As I was researching natural ways to have healthier skin, I discovered the same list of strategies for beautiful skin also improves memory (aka fibro fog), combats low energy/fatigue, and reduces other fibromyalgia and chronic pain symptoms.
Here are my top 3 ways to achieve healthier skin that can help you manage chronic pain:
Drink Wisely...Hydration is Essential
Our bodies love water and all cells (including skin cells) need fluids passing through them to function properly. These fluids carry nutrients to cells and flush out any toxic materials in the body. Science confirms being hydrated alleviates muscle aches, improves digestion, boosts energy levels, relieves fatigue, and improves cognitive performance.
How much water is enough? The general recommendation for daily water intake is half of your body weight in ounces with consideration to climate and activity levels (hot weather or more activity = drink more).
Keeping a water bottle with you will help you remember to drink water throughout the day and to ensure you are getting enough, consider tracking what you drink.
Another way to get more water each day is to eat high water content foods like grapes, watermelon, or a variety of berries. These nutrient-dense fruits will contribute to your skin’s natural glow.
And speaking of food, that's our next strategy to beautiful skin...
Eat Skin-Friendly Foods
A healthy, balanced diet is key, but adding the following five foods to your plate will go a long way toward helping you nourish your body and skin.
Almonds Almonds are a rich source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamin E for healthy skin cell production.
Avocado A good source of healthy fats that reduce inflammation, antioxidants that help protect cells from damage, and magnesium to maintain nerve and muscle function.
Green Tea Drinking green tea helps flush toxins from the body and is rich in antioxidants, making it a great anti-inflammatory option.
Kale One of the most nutrient-dense food choices you can make, kale is rich in vitamins A, B6, C, K and contains iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, fiber, and protein too!
Salmon The oily fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep skin looking youthful and decrease inflammation in the body.
Mindfully Move
Not crazy about exercise? It's as simple as going outside for a walk, gentle stretching, yoga, or dancing to your favorite music. When we increase blood circulation, vital nutrients and oxygen are delivered to our organs, including the largest organ, our skin.
Stress can take a toll on our skin and embracing meditation and relaxation exercises also can promote a radiant complexion. As added benefits to the exercise approach you choose, motion can boost your mental well-being and diminish the effects of inflammation.
Life is all about being in balance, and your skin is no exception. By following these 3 strategies, you’ll be on your way to a healthier, balanced, and brighter you.
Need a handy list of fibro-friendly foods? That’s right, our same list of Fibromyalgia Foods 101 (you can grab that free list here!) will leave your skin saying heck yeah!
Disclaimer
Fibromyalgia is not a "one size fits all" diagnosis. What works for some doesn't work for others. The information provided is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Should you have any health-related questions, please consult your physician or other health care provider promptly.
Teresa & Hannah are fellow fibromyalgia warriors. Teresa is a certified dietary manager and wellness coach. Hannah is an occupational therapist. Together, we're a mother-daughter duo on a mission to empower others to fight against fibro.