Visibly Fit – Skin Deep and Beyond

Most people think of being fit as being physically fit, but being Visibly Fit™ includes the mind, the body and the spirit.

When we think of the body we think of our physical strength and aesthetics. But, one should consider that our largest organ and the only one that is visible… is the skin. Your skin tells others how fit you really are by its elasticity, complexion, shade, and even subtleness. Not only it helps to release toxins, but it is a toxin identifier.

Loud and clear…your skin shouts… “I’m tired”, “I’m thirsty”, “I’m hungry for proper nutrients”, or “I’m stressed”. Your lifestyle shows up not only internally, but externally as well.

I remember my Dad used to always tell me when I was younger that my breakouts were due to what I was eating. I didn’t believe him because my dermatologist told me exactly what I wanted to hear – “It’s all hormonal.”

Don’t get me wrong, the dermatologist was correct (partly) and my Dad was correct (partly). When I heard the dermatologist tell me I could eat whatever I wanted and that it was a “myth” that eating chocolate caused acne…it gave a young adolescent (me) a green light to continue eating unhealthy. That’s right, I didn’t always eat healthy contrary to who I am today and have been for the last 20 years. I even have the high cholesterol test results taken as a teenager to prove it.

Growing up, we rarely ate food unless we fried it in the Fry Daddy. The only time I saw fresh vegetables was when my Dad insisted on having them at the dinner table. We each had to “try” some since he grew the vegetables in his garden and was quite proud. I am so grateful for the small, colorful plate of God-given foods on a regular basis even though I didn’t realize the impact it would have on me now.

Many people fail to realize that chronic skin problems have a direct link to diet and how we care for our skin.

Some great healthy skin foods are:

• Salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed because they deliver the essential fatty acids that are responsible for healthy cell membranes.
• Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, plums, etc., excel in combating the toxic free radicals (commonly encountered during prolonged sun exposure, for instance) that people encounter daily.
• Healthy oils such as extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil offer essential fatty acids but also lubricating benefits.
• Selenium is also a must for healthy skin as it plays a key role in the health of skin cells.
• Hydrating with water is crucial as well. Since our body is over 70% water…our skin needs water to be healthy and toxin-free.

Topically, it’s important to use products that assist naturally in ridding of toxins and do not clog pores. Bathing often and using little soap. Soap tends to wipe away the Vitamin C that is crucial for healthy and vibrant skin.

Being Visibly Fit™ is indeed skin deep and beyond!