6 Ways to Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a major contributor to the aging process. It’s a stressor that negatively impacts the health of our bodies and skin. It accelerates aging and leaves us vulnerable to chronic illnesses and diseases that can shorten our life span. While inflammation plays a critical role in the body’s healing process, often times the inflammatory substances don’t back off when they’re done working. This leads to enlarged pores, sagging, puffy skin and an increased appearance in fine lines and wrinkles. The good news is, advanced skincare products and a healthy lifestyle can help offset its effects.
Follow these tips to reduce the inflammation that negatively impacts our skin.
1. Avoid Unhealthy Fats and Simple Carbs
Stay away from trans fats, hydrogenated oils and polyunsaturated vegetable oils, aka “unhealthy fats,” at all costs. Refined sugars and simple carbs cause blood sugar levels to spike and crash, which also triggers inflammation in the body and skin.
2. Combat Stress
Stress leads to the increased production of cortisol, a hormone that causes inflammation and leads to belly fat. Reduce stress by exercising, meditating and relaxing—find what works for you and practice it daily.
3. Reduce Exposure
Minimize exposure to environmental stressors that produce inflammatory responses, such as UV rays, pollution, free radicals and secondhand smoke. These are some of the biggest culprits of premature and accelerated aging.
4. Eat Anti-inflammatory Foods
Load up on whole grains, lean protein and foods packed with antioxidants, such as fresh produce. When choosing fruits and vegetables, seek out the most colorful spectrum possible. Wild-caught fish and foods that contain monounsaturated “healthy’ fats are also excellent options. Some ideal choices include avocado, eggs, tomatoes, squash, pumpkin, berries, citrus, green tea, walnuts, pecans, almonds and dark leafy greens like kale, spinach and Brussels sprouts. Spices like cinnamon, turmeric and ginger are also touted for their anti-inflammatory effects.
5. Exercise
Regular workouts and general physical activity reduces inflammation and combats stress. Aim to get 45 minutes of exercise five times a week. Strive to incorporate cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training for maximum benefits.
6. Use Products That Fight Inflammation
Antioxidant-rich products like our Complex C Serum and Nourishing E Oil are necessary weapons for your fight against inflammation. They boast anti-inflammatory properties to help heal the skin and fend of free radical damage that causes premature aging.
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The buzz these days is all about an anti-inflammatory diet—and for good reason. Following an anti-inflammatory diet is an excellent way to improve your overall health and combat the signs of aging. Many doctors tout this type of diet because it can reduce blood triglycerides, decrease the risk of high blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular disease. Anti-inflammatory diets have been shown to improve physical recovery time and reduce the risk of many chronic illnesses and diseases. Eating anti-inflammatory foods is also an excellent complement to a good skincare program and regimen of anti-aging facial exercises.