Eczema and Gut Health: A Functional Nutrition Approach to Skin with Christa Biegler
Nov 13, 2023
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Functional medicine nutritionist and podcast host Christa Biegler discusses her personal journey with eczema and shares practical solutions for healthier skin. Topics include food sensitivities, gut health, the gut-liver connection, toxin detoxification, protein digestion, mold and fungal imbalances, and managing skin flare-ups.
Reducing toxic exposure and supporting detoxification pathways are important for maintaining healthy skin.
Addressing gut health and supporting histamine metabolism are crucial in managing histamine-related skin issues.
A comprehensive approach that includes reducing toxic exposure, nourishing the body with essential nutrients, and addressing gut and liver imbalances is necessary for effective skin healing.
Deep dives
The role of toxins and nutrients in skin conditions
Skin conditions are not only surface-level issues but are affected by the toxins and nutrient status of the body. Toxins can accumulate in the body, putting a burden on the liver and drainage systems, leading to skin issues. Therefore, reducing toxic exposure and supporting detoxification pathways are important. Additionally, adequate nutrient intake is crucial for effective detoxification. Insufficient nutrients can hinder the body's ability to process toxins and reduce inflammation, leading to skin problems. Nourishing the body with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is essential for overall skin health.
The role of histamine in skin reactions
Histamine, a neurotransmitter present in the body, plays a role in allergic and inflammatory responses. Imbalances in gut health and liver function can affect histamine metabolism, leading to histamine intolerance and skin reactions. Low enzyme activity and imbalances in the gut can result in histamine build-up and lead to symptoms such as skin inflammation, redness, and irritations. Addressing gut health and supporting histamine metabolism are important in managing histamine-related skin issues.
The complexity of skin healing and wound repair
Skin healing and wound repair can vary in timeline and effectiveness depending on the severity of the condition. Factors such as nutrient deficiencies, toxic burden, and impaired drainage pathways can delay the healing process. Skin conditions, especially chronic ones, may require a multifaceted approach that involves reducing toxic exposure, nourishing the body with essential nutrients, and addressing underlying gut and liver imbalances. Understanding that skin healing is an inside-out process and being realistic about the timeline can help manage expectations and promote effective healing.
Taking a comprehensive approach to skin health
When addressing skin conditions, it is important to take a comprehensive approach that includes reducing toxic exposure, supporting detoxification pathways, addressing histamine imbalances, and providing adequate nutrients for skin healing. This involves making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding toxins in personal care products and household items, adopting a nutrient-dense diet, managing stress levels, and seeking professional guidance when needed. Combining interventions for symptom relief along with addressing underlying imbalances can greatly improve skin health and overall well-being.
Key Point 1: The importance of amino acids and nutrients for skin health
Amino acids play a crucial role in supporting skin health. They are well-tolerated and can provide numerous benefits. It is important to focus on supporting drainage and detoxification and nourishing the adrenal and nervous system. Choline, a nutrient often overlooked, is especially beneficial for the skin and brain function. While egg yolks are a good food source of choline, therapeutic interventions may require additional supplements. However, some individuals may struggle with protein digestion, making it necessary to find alternative sources of nutrients.
Key Point 2: The impact of blood sugar management and minerals on skin health
Blood sugar management is vital for skin health, as imbalances can lead to inflammation and hinder detoxification processes. It also affects hormone health, contributing to menstrual flares and exacerbating skin issues. The absorption of minerals, which are essential for tissue healing, hormone function, and other vital processes, can be compromised when cell membranes are inflamed. Prioritizing proper nervous system support and addressing stress levels can optimize mineral absorption and overall skin health.
In this episode, Michelle sits down with Christa Biegler, functional medicine nutritionist and podcast host of The Less Stressed Life. Christa shares her personal journey with eczema, and provides relatable experiences that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with skin issues.
Join them as they delve into the world of skin health and offer practical solutions to help you achieve a life with less stress and healthier, rejuvenated skin.
They discuss:
Christa shares shares her personal experience with eczema and food sensitivities [4:16]
The difference between allergies, intolerances and sensitivities [9:48
Food sensitivities and gut health [18:26]
The gut-liver connection and its impact on skin health [21:55]
How treating skin issues requires addressing both internal and external factors [26:20]
The power of food and taking various approaches to what you eat [32:56]
Addressing toxin detoxification from a nutrition standpoint [46:27]
The role of protein digestion in skin health [50:28]
The impact of mold and fungal imbalances on skin health [56:57]
What to do if you’re experiencing a skin flare up [1:04:25]
This episode is sponsored by Veri. A continuous glucose monitor that provides personalized insights on what works best for our bodies and to really be able to quiet the diet. Get $30 with our code VSM-QUIETTHEDIET here.