Seeds are not only a trendy topping on avocado toast and smoothie bowls - but they also do wonders for our skin. In fact, here's how seeds can help fight acne, and protect overall skin health.
First off, it’s important to understand the underlying causes of acne. Acne is often a result of an imbalance in the body; the most common being hormone and digestion. Today, these imbalances are extremely common, all thanks to environmental factors such as processed foods, stress, and toxins. Seeds are a serious superfood that works to balance our hormones and digestion.
Beneficial nutrients in seeds
- Fibre
- Essential fatty acids
- Antioxidants
How Seeds Can Help Fight Acne
Is fibre important for clear skin?
Fibre is a key nutrient for clear skin. It helps regulate bowel movements and encourages a healthy detoxification pathway. With an important role in hormone balance, fibre helps eliminate excess estrogen from our bodies. Yes, you read that right! Excess estrogen gets excreted with our bowel movements. If you experience constipation, excess estrogen cannot be eliminated properly and it can actually be reabsorbed by the digestive tract. This can cause a hormone imbalance, which as discussed above, can be a culprit for acne.
Acne and inflammation
Seeds are a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fatty acids with anti-inflammatory benefits. Regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the effects of acne and support healthy hormone production.
How do antioxidants help skin health?
Antioxidants found in seeds, such as Vitamin E and Carotenoid help protect the skin against harmful free radicals. In fact, these free radicals are generated from UV rays and environmental toxins. Therefore, consuming foods high in antioxidants can help regenerate skin and reduce the effects of acne and scarring.
Seeds we recommend for clear skin:
1. Flax seeds - contain a phytoestrogen, called lignans. Lignans encourage a healthy balance between estrogen and progesterone - two major sex hormones controlling our menstrual cycle and skin health.
2. Chia seeds - high in fibre. Accordingly, they help regulate bowel movements and eliminate toxins. The omega-3 essential fatty acids found in chia can help calm the skin.
3. Pumpkin seeds - rich in Vitamin E and Zinc. Therefore, this makes them great for preventing breakouts and protecting skin.
4. Hemp Seeds - contains all 9 essential amino acids. As a result, hemp is great source of plant-based protein, which helps support healthy skin structure. They are also rich in antioxidants.
Overall, seeds are a wonderful superfood that can easily be added into your daily routine! Check out our simple DIY Seedy Mix for a recipe that is super handy to have in your fridge. One thing to note is that quality matters. Therefore, try purchasing seeds that are organic and raw, when possible. Although it isn’t necessary, we also recommend storing your seeds in the fridge for optimal freshness.
By Joslynn Bay alongside Sisley Killam, as part of her nutrition practicum work at The Pure Life.