Coming into the wintertime, the majority of us notice the change in our skin's texture - and usually for the worst. The cold temperatures plus our exposure to more indoor heating causes our skin to become dry, dehydrated and reactive. So, what can we do to help our skin?
Vitamin D
Coming into Autumn and Winter, unfortunately, we see the difference in our sunlight exposure and the sun begins to set earlier and earlier. Because we absorb a lot of our Vitamin D through our skin's exposure to the sun, naturally in the Winter, this decreases.
Vitamin D is often known for its integral role in skin protection and rejuvenation. Not only our skin, but research also shows a lack of vitamin D can affect our mood and energy levels.
Supplementing Vitamin D with foods rich in it, such as:
- Salmon
- Cod liver oil
- Tuna
- Dairy fortified with vitamin D
- Egg yolks, and much more.
If you are vegan or don't eat many of these foods containing high Vitamin D levels, you can supplement your Vitamin D with daily dose tablets instead. There are many inexpensive ones that only require one small tablet a day and pack size can go up to 3 months at a time - making it handy and efficienct for you.
Vitamin B
As said above, in the winter months, we often find our mood affected and our energy levels lower. Vitamin B, especially Vitamin B-12 plays an integral role in this in our bodies. Vitamin B is known as the 'anti-stress' vitamin. They are connected to improving our feel-good neurotransmitters responsible for maintaining a positive mood as well as being critical for a healthy nervous system.
Foods that are rich in Vitamin B are:
- Broccoli
- Brussels Sprouts
- Leafy Green Vegetables, such as, Spinach and Kale
- Liver
- Kidney Beans
- Vitamin B complex or B-12 Supplements
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, also known as the skin vitamin, is essential in your body as it is a natural fat-absorbing antioxidant, meaning it protects your skin from free radicals, such as UV radiation by the atmosphere, this is the same as Vitamin C. It is also considered an anti-inflammatory.
Vitamin E contributes to healthy skin and keeps it looking youthful.
Foods that are rich in Vitamin E are:
- Sunflower seeds
- Wheat Germ Oil
- Almonds
- Peanuts
- Beets greens, collard greens, spinach
- Pumpkin
- Red Bell Peppers
- Vitamin E Supplements
There are many more vitamins and minerals that help you and your skin in the wintertime. Please do your research before taking any supplements and consult your pharmacist or doctor on the best course of action to take.
Check out our blog on how to boost your mood during the winter months here.
