Understanding the gut and skin axis

By Bio Island Nutrition Team

Our gut and digestive tract contains trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms to help keep us healthy. Our gut is responsible for breaking down the foods we eat and absorbing nutrients which support different functions of the body including skin health, immune system, and waste elimination.  

Your gut consists of both good and bad bacteria and is constantly trying to reach equilibrium where there is a healthy balance of both. It is important to make sure that you have enough good bacteria as they keep bad bacteria at bay and prevent them from having space to grow. Too much bad bacteria can lead to illnesses such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease.

The relationship between our gut and skin is often referred to as the ‘skin-gut’ axis due to the correlation between gastrointestinal health and skin homeostasis. Our immune system regulates systemic and local inflammation and is the pathway between our gut and skin.

Skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis or eczema and rosacea could all be indications that your gut and skin microbiome may be unbalanced.

As the largest organ in the body, your skin health is dependent on both internal and external factors. If you gut is showing signs of irritation or inflammation you are most likely not absorbing the nutrients in your foods to support skin health, such as vitamins A, C, E, and minerals such as selenium and zinc.

Improving gut health starts by looking at factors that may be causing gut irritation or inflammation such as:

• Poor dietary intake that lacks in fruits, vegetables and wholegrains and is high in processed high sugar and high fat foods
• Medication such as antibiotics
• Stress and lack of sleep
• Allergies
• Environment

Probiotics are good bacteria and are found in certain foods such as yoghurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut and kimchi. Probiotics add bacteria into your intestinal tract to help keep everything balanced as well as strengthen your immune system. If you are prescribed antibiotics, it may be worth having a chat with your healthcare provider to determine in additional probiotic supplement support is required.

Prebiotic foods such as bananas, garlic, onions, and asparagus feed and help to boost the growth of the good bacteria in your gut and are an important inclusion to your diet.

Reducing stress will have a positive impact on improving your gut and skin health. If there are major stressors in your life look at ways you may be able to reduce the impact it is having on you as well as finding time in your day to relax, take a walk or do something that you may enjoy.

This information does not take into account your personal situation and is general in nature. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for your needs and seek professional medical advice.

Always consult your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or if any concerns arise.