Skin:Secrets — Kat Bright

Love is in the air this month, so it’s the perfect time to prioritise not only matters of the heart, but also the wellbeing of your cardiovascular system. Although there are some hereditary factors, lifestyle choices play a significant role in combating the world's leading killer – cardiovascular disease. Opting for a diet rich in ultra-processed foods while neglecting vegetables and fruits can set you on a detrimental path for heart health. Cardiovascular disease is fundamentally an inflammatory condition, leading to elevated blood pressure, plaque formation and the constriction of blood vessels. Simple adjustments to your diet can significantly enhance...

In January, when the weather is often cold and gloomy and post-holiday blues may set in, it’s important to focus on nourishing foods that can boost both your mood and overall well-being.  If the blues are getting to you, include some foods rich in tryptophan - an amino acid that serves as a pre-cursor to serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation and overall well-being. Foods high in tryptophan include turkey, chicken, salmon, eggs, cottage cheese, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds.  Make sure you include some complex carbohydrates in your diet as these can...

  What is the immune system? The purpose of the immune system is to identify the body’s enemies and mount an attack to destroy them. If you catch more than one or two colds a year, this is an indicator that your immune system needs support.  Ways to support the immune system One of the most important food components to enhance immune function are the carotenes, in particular beta-carotenes. These are the precursor to vitamin A, which plays a critical role in maintaining the mucosal surfaces in the body. Foods high in carotenes include highly coloured vegetables such as dark...

Ways to help your skin during the menopause As we get older our levels of progesterone and oestrogen naturally decline. Oestrogen is responsible for the production of lipids, which keep our skin barrier intact; hyaluronic acid, which keeps our skin flexible; sebum, which helps to protein and hydrate our skin; and collagen which is used to make connective tissue. This declining oestrogen has a catabolic effect (breaking down) in our body leading to a loss of skin integrity and elasticity and so an increase in skin dryness and flaking. However there are many things we can do to support our...