Healthy Chicks

{Who new artichokes could actually promote skin health? image source}

On Saint Patrick’s Day morning, instead of waking up to green eggs & ham, I woke up to a full-fledged breakout. Ever since I made the decision to go off of oral contraceptives for my health and my body, I’ve been feeling wonderful – I’ve lost weight, gained energy, and simply feel “lighter” and more healthy in general. However, when making my personal, well-thought-out decision, I was also aware of one possible side effect; that is my skin flaring up due to a change in hormones. Unfortunately, I think the inevitable is happening.

“Really, I’m dealing with acne in my mid-20s! Why?! WHY?!!” I moaned and groaned to my boyfriend, my sister, and quite frankly anyone who would listen. Having struggled with severe acne as a teenager, I thought those days were far behind me, but when I looked in the mirror the other day, those difficult years came flashing back at me.

Fortunately, I know much more about my health now (what works for me, what doesn’t work for me) and am also learning more and more everyday about natural solutions and home remedies. This has promoted me to go almost completely organic with my skin care routine, change the way I shop for beauty products, and make better choices when it comes to my diet. However, even with my extra care to detail, I was still plagued with a skin flare-up and I’m almost 100% positive hormones are to blame.

So what now? Crawl in a hole and pout? While that was kind of my thought process the other day, I decided to be a big girl and face the situation like an adult. I forced myself to go to work being my perky self, even though I have to admit my confidence level was not very high.

Fortunately, working at a spa does have its perks, one being full access to a plethora of knowledgeable estheticians  who were actually willing to listen to me. I’m happy to say I am scheduling a facial this Thursday to deal with the route of the problem and hopefully reduce some of the blemishes and redness.

But I just had to ask, “What oh what do I do in the meantime. Are there any natural solutions?”

Luckily, my esthetician friend was happy to recommend some natural aids for me. And guess what? They’re all foods I actually know and love! Talk about hitting two birds with one stone.

Here’s the Top  5 Skin-Clearing Foods She Reccommended:

1. Pumpkin – High in antioxidants, pumpkin has been used as a natural beauty source for years. Luckily, I already own a pumpkin enzyme peel called “Youth Accelerator” by Sircuit which works like a charm every time. It’s 100% natural, and made with unbuffered pumpkin to promote luscious, healthy looking skin. Want to add pumpkin into your diet? Add to your morning smoothie, oatmeal or even mix into yogurt for a delicious sweet treat.

2. Yams/Sweet Potatoes – Better stock up on my sweet potatoes! With high levels of Vitamin A and C, yams are known to speed up acne healing, according to this article “Super Foods for Acne” on Livestrong. My favorite ways to get this golden food into my diet is boiling in water, and then mashing up with a dash of cinnamon, and some cumin or cajun seasoning for a zesty flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits. I also love slicing these babies into thin strips to make sweet potato “fries.” Season with salt, pepper, dried parsley, garlic and some red pepper flakes.

3. Soy – I was surprised by this one! While I’m not a huge fan of commercial soy milk due to its additives, I do enjoy snacking on edamame, the soybean in its purest form. A little salt & pepper and you’re golden. Dunk in low-sodium tamari for a delicious finish.

4. Artichokes – Great for skin health and anti-aging, while being a delectable additive to homemade pizza, pasta, and salads!

5. Probiotics – This one is a must. I’m totally going to buy myself some probiotic-packed natural yogurt this evening at Whole Foods. While acne can be caused by “bad” bacteria, probiotics help add some of the “good” bacteria back in, reducing inflammation and helping to clear up skin issues. Many people take probiotic supplements, but you can also find them packed into your favorite yogurts; just read the label to make sure!

Other than these five tips, I’m also paying extra attention to hydration, taking my daily Fish Oil supplement I got from Xtend-Life, sipping herbal tea throughout the day, making sure to get my Zzz’s, and trying to simply relax & give myself a little bit of a break.

What are your favorite natural skin remedies, particularly for hormonal breakouts? Any suggestions will be HIGHLY appreciated!

XoXo,