Vitamin A and Zinc have a health promoting affect on the epithelial cells that make up your outer layer of skin called the epidermis. Within the epidermis there are multiple layers of cells. The outer layer is made up of protective cells that are flattened in appearance. Underneath these flattened cells are cube and column like cells that help with moisturizing your skin to keep it from becoming too dry. When the outer cells are not nourished well they can become damaged or unhealthy, clogging the pores of your skin, causing acne. Therefore in order to help with the treatment of acne, eating foods containing Vitamin A and Zinc will be helpful.

One of the best sources for Vitamin A is cod liver Oil, which can be found easily in supplement form. Other sources for Vitamin A include foods that contain Carotene such as carrots and dark leafy green vegetables. Carotene is not actually Vitamin A, however once consumed in the diet your body converts carotene into Vitamin A for the body’s cells to use. Beginning your day with a juice containing carrots and dark leafy greens may be good way to promote clear acne free skin.

One of the best food sources for zinc is oysters. Beef also contains strong amounts of this mineral. Zinc is also found in the bran of whole grains, but is often not absorbed well when eating grains because of the phytic acid that is also present within the bran. Phytic Acid ties up minerals like zinc and inhibits proper absorption of them. This is one of the main arguments for the Paleo lifestyle and why grains are not eaten with this diet. Here is a list of the top ten foods that contain zinc.

If you are someone who suffers from acne breakouts, try to include foods that contain Vitamin A and Zinc on a routine basis. Remember, for best results when treating any disease in a holistic way it is equally important to make healthy lifestyle and overall dietary changes. Eliminate foods that may be making your acne worse like foods containing processed sugar, and include exercise and relaxation techniques to manage stress. Trust in your body’s natural ability to heal and know that clear skin is just beneath the surface.

In Good Health,

Joseph Tonzola L.Ac., Dipl. OM