Page 37 - FoodFocusThailand No.170 May 2020

SPECIAL FOCUS

When it comes to science to support the effect of wellness and acts as a protective antioxidant in mitochondrial membranes.
products, the evidence for topical ingredients is still way ahead of Because of its antioxidant role in reducing cellular damage, CoQ10 may
those that are ingestible. For oral nutricosmetics, the marketing contribute to the appearance of healthy skin. Dietary sources of CoQ10
potential appears to be ahead of the science. However, new research are limited to mostly meat, poultry, fish, soybean and canola oil, eggs
continues to indicate that several of these ingredients taken orally and dairy.
may offer benefits reflected in outer appearance, including hair, skin • Collagen is an extremely popular ingredient in the Japanese market
and nails. where consumers can buy everything from collagen marshmallows to
collagen-infused plum wine. Declining collagen and elastin levels are a
Ingredients for Skin Health natural part of aging, which makes skin appear less firm and elastic and
• Vitamin C In simple terms, free radicals are generated from more “crepe like.”
sunlight, smoke and pollution; they gobble up collagen and elastin, • Alpha-Lipoic Acid This antioxidant ingredient is said to be
the fibers that support skin structure, potentially leading to wrinkles hundreds of times more potent than vitamin C because of its ability to
and other signs of aging. As one of the main antioxidant nutrients, penetrate both oil and water. Alpha-lipoic acid helps neutralize skin cell
vitamin C helps to lessen the oxidative stress in cells and may support damage caused by free radicals and has indeed been studied for this
regeneration and production of new, healthier skin cells. It is necessary effect (Perricone, N.)
for the development and maintenance of collagen, cartilage and blood • Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a mucopolysaccharide, which is one of
vessels; collagen is also important for strengthening hair and improving the glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) best known for its role in lubricating
hair growth. joints, but it also appears to play a role in skin cells. HA retains water
Researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition and helps hydrate and transport nutrients to cells.
Examination Survey, which explored links between nutrient intake When adding supplements or making changes in dietary habits,
and skin-aging appearance in more than 4,000 women aged 40 to consumers may feel better within hours or days. However, more supple,
74. They discovered that higher intake of vitamin C and linoleic acid glowing and/or hydrated appearance typically doesn’t happen overnight
(an essential fatty acid) and lower intake of fat and carbohydrates and might not be noticeable until after a couple of weeks, depending
were associated with better skin-aging appearance (less wrinkled on severity of changes in each individual. Be cautious of products that
appearance, less dry and atrophied) (Cosgrove, MC, et al.). sound too good to be true, and remember that the best way to promote
• Zinc affects multiple aspects of the immune system, from the wellness from within is with a diet that includes a wide variety of
barrier of the skin to gene regulation within white blood cells. Zinc is antioxidant-rich whole foods, healthy fats and is low in refined
involved in the rate at which skin heals and it helps repress oil carbohydrates, with minimal processing and additives.
production, which is key for people who suffer from acne. Zinc is also
important for growth and repair of hair cells and keeps the oil glands
surrounding follicles in peak shape.
• Vitamin A is essential for formation of healthy epithelial (skin)
cells and mucous membrane surfaces. Low vitamin A levels may lead
to dry, flaky and/or even bumpy skin. If vitamin A levels in the diet are
adequate, adding more probably won’t do much more for skin health.
Although much of the research on vitamin A is related to topical
use, some studies have suggested that foods high in the antioxidant
beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A) may lower risk for conditions
like psoriasis. Vitamin A is also necessary for healthy sebum production
in the scalp, which may prevent strands from drying out.
• Omega-3s There is an abundance of research indicating a
positive role for omega-3 fatty acids in reducing the risk of
cardiovascular disease, joint issues, inflammation, and for supporting
skin health. Omegas are part of the building block of cell membranes
and play a vital role in membrane fluidity, flexibility and permeability.
Specific to skin, omegas have been studied for their role in delaying
visible signs of aging, regulating hydration and controlling the skin’s
oil production. If skin is dry and prone to inflammation then essential
fatty acids may help to produce a “calming” barrier that isn’t produced
when these essential fatty acids are in less than adequate supply. In
2005, the Journal of Lipid Research published a study that explored
the role eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) plays in protection of the skin
from UV-induced damage linked to fine lines and collagen degradation
(Kim, Hyeon Ho, et al.).
• Resveratrol is an antioxidant concentrated in red wine and in
Japanese Knotweed (polygonum). The benefits of resveratrol have
been fairly well-documented in the research; it has been suggested
that it not only protect the skin but also repairs previous damage.
Resveratrol’s benefits are linked to increased skin elasticity and the
strengthening of collagen, resulting in fewer wrinkles.
• Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 is a component involved in healthy
mitochondrial function; it helps facilitate converting food into energy

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