Skin

[ICON=skin.gif] You can buy expensive face creams, and nail and hair products, but it’s what you put into your body that is important. The condition of your skin and hair is usually a good indication of your general health and wellbeing. Here are some of the most essential nutrients. The Omega 3 found in oily fish are found in every cell structure in the body and are vital for good muscle tone, healthy hair, strong nails and hormone production. Because the essential fats have a moisturising effect they can reduce itching and flaking of the scalp associated with dandruff and help calm inflammation associated with eczema and psoriasis. Vitamin C is needed for the production of collagen which gives skin its elasticity and protects it from ageing. Vitamin C deficiency can also cause the skin to become more fragile and bruise more easily. An optimal intake is 500-1000mg Vitamin C daily. Zinc is needed for skin and hair and can get used up rapidly when under stress. A supplement providing at 15mg of zinc should be taken daily.