Want Healthy Skin? Top 10 Vitamins and Supplements to Glow the Naturopathic Way

John Dempster returns! He’s a licensed (and handsome) Naturopathic Doctor who practices in Toronto, and regularly contributes to Blisstree about health and wellness issues. Last time, the good doctor schooled us about 10 vitamins and supplements we shouldn’t live without. Today he’s back with his top 10 list of naturopathic ways to achieve healthy, glowing skin. Find The Dempster Clinic here.

1. Omega-3s

Easily the best first first approach to improving overall skin health. The active components EPA and DHA are powerful anti-inflammatory agents for acne-prone skin, and provide essentials oils to make skin glow. Symptoms of Omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies include eczema, dandruff, dry and flaky skin, and poor wound healing. I highly recommend a professional-strength fish oil such as EPA/DHA 720 by Metagenics.

2. Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that the body requires for the synthesis of collagen, which aids skin healing and growth. Zinc is also a component of proper enzyme functioning that the body needs to repair skin wounds. Zinc citrate is one of the highest absorbable forms – available through many professional-level supplement lines.

3. Iodine

This mineral is absolutely critical to the health of skin, hair, and nails. The thyroid gland is one of the most important regulators of how we look, think, and feel; and iodine is the most important thyroid nutrient to help ensure proper metabolism. Iodine is present in some foods, but evidence shows that numbers of iodine deficiencies are on the rise. Liquid Iodine by Seroyal is a staple.

4. Vitamin C

This antioxidant is crucial to the production of collagen, which is the connective tissue that keeps our skin nice and firm. Vitamin C helps to slow the aging processes that are easily visible: wrinkles, spots, etc. Aim to take vitamin C in divided doses throughout the day – a good dose is 1,000 mg, three times daily (and be sure to separate these doses). There are many great vitamin C products available, but always look for one mixed with flavanoids for maximum effectiveness.

5. Vitamin E

This powerful antioxidant acts as a preservative for skin cells. We’re constantly exposed to damaging free radicals, which cause skin to look aged and weathered. Studies show that high amounts of vitamin E and other antioxidants can slow the aging processes of cells. Vitamin E supplements need to be in a complete blend of all eight subtypes – four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. Most brands aren’t of this type, which is why I stress the importance of choosing the right supplements. I like Total E by Metagenics.

6. Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are proteins that break down food so that the body can use it efficiently. Enzymes help improve skin, hair, and nail health by increasing the blood supply to the skin and body. Sadly, the reality is that most North Americans eat high amounts of processed foods. This is problematic for many reasons, because processed foods are almost completely devoid of healing nutrients, and strip your body of its enzyme pools – all of which affects the skin. If your food isn’t digested properly, it’s hard to absorb vitamins and minerals (which can ultimately lead to malnutrition). One of my favorite products is Digest Plus by Seroyal. If you want beautiful skin, digestive health must be at its optimal level.