It may seem surreal but the relationship between obesity and skin health is closer than you might think. If we had already discussed the causes and consequences of obesity as well as the much feared sarcopenic obesity that is affecting the population over 65 years of age, now we focus on what being overweight does to health (And Why not? Also the beauty of your skin. We hope to resolve all your doubts.
Obesity and skin health: what you didn't know
Psoriasis is possibly the most famous inflammatory skin disease. Directly or indirectly, it can also affect the joints or the cardiovascular system, so it is surprising that a greater risk of suffering from psoriasis is linked to weight gain. Well, according to quite a few studies, the possibilities of worsening this condition with being overweight skyrocket. Already in 2001, a study appeared according to which the prevalence of this disease was 1.4%, while in 2014 it practically doubled, reaching 2.3%. Although we must continue researching the topic, it is clear that it is worth continuing to investigate.
Along with this worsening, being overweight causes increased sweating that can lead to acne or dermatitis problems . Constant rubbing of the skin also tends to trigger constant irritations. At a dermatological level, the consequences can be devastating, with a link also being found between obesity and a greater risk of developing skin cancer . Other dermatoses with a higher incidence in people with obesity are:
- Venous Stasis.
- Lymphedema and cellulitis.
- Hidradenitis suppurativa.
- Stretch marks.
- Skin tags.
- Acanthosis.
Your skin health is nourished by diet and exercise
Sun protection : It is essential to use sunscreen, look for shady places and also protect yourself through clothing or astaxanthin supplements .
Stay away from tobacco : It goes without saying that smoking, drinking alcohol and/or taking drugs cause premature aging of the skin.
Follow a skin health routine : Although it is often believed that they are only done for aesthetic purposes, maintaining a daily routine can be what preserves the health of your skin.
Stop stress and anxiety (or what is the same, exercise ).
A healthy diet : What is inside becomes evident on the outside. More youthful skin should be kept hydrated, high in fish oil, low in unhealthy fats as well as processed carbohydrates.
If you suspect that you need to lose weight, remember that at Nova Nutrición we are here to advise you and help you make the process healthier.
Sources:
Drs. Anne-Marie Tobin, Tomas Ahern, Sarah Rogers, Paul Collins, Donal O'Shea, and Brian Kirby. Int J Dermatol. 2013 Aug; 52:927-32 , https://www.intramed.net/contenidover.asp?contenidoid=82155