Its that time of the year when our skin adapts to the changing season. I’ve seen so many people complain of dry, flaking skin and cracked painful skin on the hands. Itching cheeks, tight skin and a dull complexion can be common in the colder months. According to Dr Holt of Cambridge skin clinic, ‘When the temperature drops, and the humidity falls, your skin cries out for hydration. Cold weather can lead to cracks in the outer layers of your skin, inflammation and a general lack of moisture. Which can seriously impact your overall skin health. This is because the skin barrier is disrupted, and even more so when you leave the colder winter weather and step into an overheated building that circulates hot, dry air. You might find yourself suddenly itchy and feeling dry and parched’.

The colder months can also result in comfort eating, enjoying foods that disrupt hormonal balance, resulting in skin break outs. If your skin is looking dull or feels tighter than a drum, introducing foods that support skin health could be the answer. Nourishing skin from within, these are our skin food suggestions.

Avocado is a good source of fat soluble vitamin E. An antioxidant that protects skin cell membranes from free radical damage. It helps to reduce moisture loss and keeps the skin looking plump. Also try sunflower seeds for vitamin E.

Chickpeas are high in zinc so good for skin healing. It contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and protection of cells from oxidative stress.      

Butternut squash is an easy meal addition and full of plant pigment beta-carotene. A fantastic anti inflammatory and high in vitamin A, that regulates oil production in the skin. Also eat carrots and sweet potato for beta-carotene.

Pumpkin seeds contain zinc that supports overall skin health. It also protects your cells from oxidative stress. Prawns also a good zinc source.

Spinach is high in vitamin C for normal function of the skin and it supports collagen formation.

Eggs contain biotin, an important skin supporter.

Green tea contains properties that are important to skin health. It is choc full of antioxidants so aim to drink a cup or two per day.

Brazil nuts contain an important antioxidant called selenium. It protects cells from oxidative stress.

Salmon is a skin superfood containing some of the best nutrients for inflammatory conditions such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. Preformed EPA and DHA omega 3 fatty acids are converted into anti inflammatory compounds that help to reduce redness, swelling and skin discomfort.