5 foods that are destroying your Hormones and Skin

The human body is entirely protected by the skin, i.e. the outer layer. Our skin protects our internal organs, keeps us safe from the environment and so on. But this organ too needs a lot of love and nurturing.

When something goes wrong within, it shows up on our skin. For e.g. acne, whiteheads, blackheads, pimples etc. Skin also suffers from rashes, blemishes, dark spots etc. these are clear indicators for hormonal imbalance in the body.

Hormonal acne is common in women and it is a result of an endocrine imbalance in the body. This may happen to women just before their menstruation cycle or in between the cycle. This is because the two points in the cycle when the testosterone and estrogen levels are at the highest point. If these hormones are not processed correctly, they can accumulate and wreak havoc on the body and on the skin. It leads to inflamed skin and acne.

But what leads to hormonal imbalance? The first and foremost reason is food! Yes, there are many foods that we consume on a daily basis that is actually destroying our hormonal balance and skin. Here are five foods that destroy your skin and hormones:

#1 Dairy

As Indians we love our dairy products; drinking milk, having tea, paneer etc.

But our beloved dairy products contain synthetic hormones and help produce excessive hormones in the body. It also causes the leaky gut syndrome and inflammation in the body. These cause acne and other skin related issues.

#2 Soy

Soy is something we turn to when we want to avoid animal dairy but it can surely imbalance the hormones. It contains phytoestrogens. This means when the hormones are sensitive, soy causes them to break out. It is best to keep checking the food labels before purchasing.

#3 Gluten

Gluten-free foods are a rage today and there is a major reason why – it affects the body in a similar manner to dairy. Apparently, experts claim that it sticks to the veins and arteries causing water retention and slow down of fat burn, i.e. accumulating fat. It also causes inflammation in the gut and destroys hormone balance.

#4 Sunflower, vegetable, and canola oil

These oils are heavily advertised as the best oils for the body, for cooking, nutrient absorption etc. they contain excess Omega-6 acids than the Omega-3 fatty acids they claim to have. Excessive omega-6 acids in the body cause skin inflammation when the estrogen levels are at their peak.

#5 Caffeine

Contrary to popular belief, caffeine is not that great for you. While it does boost your morning routine, it ruins your skin’s immune responses. Coffee and tea strip you of your essential vitamin B, zinc and magnesium.