Fitness for Healthy Skin

We all know that exercise is great for losing weight and toning muscles, but did you know that exercise can also be good for your skin? Staying fit with exercise helps to improve your circulation and thus the delivery of nutrients to your skin. These nutrients can help to flush away toxins and promote the production of collagen. Collagen is the connective tissue that keeps wrinkle and fine lines from appearing. So, you aren’t just getting in shape when your running on that treadmill; you are also improving the health and appearance of your skin.

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In an article on medicine.net, David Berman, MD, medical director and dermatologic/cosmetic surgeon at the Berman Skin Institute, Palo Alto, Calif., says exercise can also help acne.

“There’s a lot of indirect evidence that shows that when you exercise your level of stress diminishes. So your adrenal glands are producing less of these male-type hormones that are part of any acne flare-up,” said Dr. Berman.

Another consideration with exercise is that when you perspire, it helps clear out your pores. And clear pores means healthier skin. Just remember to always shower shortly after exercise. Leaving sweat, oil and dirt from your workout on your skin will only lead to more breakouts and skin problems.

Of course, diet also has an effect on the skin. You should drink 8 glasses of water a day and eat a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Here are four food items that are also essential for healthy skin.

Flaxseed - The essential fatty acids in flaxseed help reduce inflammation and dryness, resulting in smoother, softer skin.

Green tea – The antioxidants in green tea help eliminate free radicals, which cause skin damage.

Salmon – Salmon, herring, mackerel and other fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and improve skin at the cellular level.

Strawberries – High in antioxidants and silica, strawberries are low-calorie, delicious and good for your skin.

Check out more foods for healthy skin along with more benefits of green tea.

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