Gut Instincts

There's a link between what we eat and our skin.

- Karen Alfonso

You've been hearing the phrase 'you are what you eat' from everyone - your mom, your grandmom, and your favourite beauty or wellness influencers. And, yes, eating right does impact health, and maintaining good gut health does lead to a better mind and body.

Good gut health also shows in your skin. "Your skin is highly responsive to food you eat," says Mumbai-based nutritionist and lifestyle educator Karishma Chawla. "Food is literally the most powerful thing you can use for optimal health and, more importantly, your skin. Skin care depends a lot on the quality of hormones produced by the body, which is, in turn, is dictated by the quality of protein and fats. And, yes, this engine is also driven by good quality carbohydrates."

She adds, "Check if your body and mind need a detox. The usual symptoms of the body asking for help are fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, indigestion and acne (which is considered inflammation in the body). When toxins build up in the body, the cellular environment is poisoned. Energy declines, resulting in degenerative diseases. Detoxifying requires nutritional work. The right nutrients in the right quantities ensure the right balance, otherwise the body cannot keep itself cleansed of toxins, and cannot run optimally. You will then notice the above mentioned symptoms, as well as dull skin and acne."