According to Dr. Shareefa Chause - dermatologist at Dr Shareefa Clinic (Mumbai, India), although often mentioned for its cardiovascular and brain benefits, omega-3 also plays an indispensable role in maintaining healthy skin.
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that play an essential role in many functions of the body, including supporting the immune system, developing the brain and maintaining cardiovascular health. However, omega-3 is especially important for the skin.
Omega-3 fatty acids help strengthen the skins lipid barrier, effectively retain moisture and prevent irritants from entering, says Dr Chause.
Ms. Chause also emphasized that omega-3 has the effect of reducing inflammation, this is a major factor in many skin diseases such as eczema, acne or psoriasis.
Here are 5 signs on the skin that warn of omega-3 deficiency:
Dry and flaky skin: When the skin is not hydrated enough and lacks natural oils, dryness, cracking and flaky skin can easily occur. This is the most common sign of omega-3 deficiency.
Increased sensitivity and itching: The skin is prone to irritation, redness, itching or burning can be caused by damage to the skin's protective barrier due to lack of essential fats.
Prolonged acne: Chronic inflammation caused by omega-3 deficiency can make acne persistent and difficult to treat even with intensive skin care.
Early skin aging: leading to dull skin, early wrinkles or poor elasticity can be a sign of omega-3 deficiency, a component that can support cell regeneration and antioxidants.
Slow wound healing: If scratches, acne or skin damage take a long time to recover, this can also be a result of malnutrition, especially omega-3.
Since the human body cannot synthesize omega-3 on its own, supplementation through food is extremely important. Abundant sources of omega-3 include fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, walnuts, and some other nuts.
In some cases, doctors may recommend the use of additional functional foods or omega-3 supplements, but absolutely do not take them without a professional prescription.
The skin not only reflects external beauty but is also a mirror reflecting the health inside the body.
When you notice unusual changes, especially the above signs, reviewing your diet and supplementing omega-3 properly can be the first step to recovering and maintaining healthy skin from the roots.
