That saying “you are what you eat,” really has truth to it when it comes to your hair, skin and nail health, and a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and enough water can directly improve the appearance of these. With that said, we checked in with health experts to learn more about 1 common processed food type that your favorite snacks might fall under, and researched how it can negatively affect the health of your tresses, complexion and nails. Read on for tips, suggestions and insight from hair expert Jean Will, Co-Founder of NiaWigs Inc, and health and wellness expert Brandon Adcock, CEO of Nugenix.
How Starchy, Refined Grains Impact Hair, Skin And Nail Health
The following foods are often classified under 'refined' (or processed) grains: low-fiber white flour and foods made with it like bread, certain pastas and noodles, sugary cereals, dessert foods, etc. As opposed to natural or whole grains, this type of food has been milled, which experts say means the bran and germ are removed to last longer on grocery store shelves (which takes away excellent sources of healthy fiber, magnesium, zinc, etc.)
When it comes to skin health, Adcock notes that "starchy, processed grains are tied to acne and inflammation" as "high Glycemic Index or Glycemic Load foods promote acne, which basically means we’ve got to mind our blood sugar to have healthy skin." Processed foods like these not only impact your digestion, but also the appearance of the aforementioned body parts. These foods, Adcock explains, include "corn chips, fast food, baked goods, cereal, potatoes, and sugary beverages." He adds that processed wheat, found in doughnuts, white bread, & cereal is a "double whammy." These foods, with "a high GI/GL" have to be "limited in a skin-healthy diet," he says.
Will agrees, especially regarding hair health, and says that processed, starchy and refined grains "actually be seen in our physical appearance" and "affect" our locks, nails and skin. "Starchy food can increase our androgen levels which make our hair thin," she says. "Another thing is that processed foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies because they lack nutrients that your body needs which also leads to side effects like darkening of the skin," she says, like age spots, premature aging, etc.
Ultimately, the way to go when it comes to promoting your overall health and especially in these areas is to consume a diet with enough biotin (vitamin B7) for hair and nail health, and vitamins C & E for optimal skin. Also, many of your favorite pastas, breads, cereals and other foods that commonly contain refined, starchy and processed grains can be replaced with whole grain versions to offer yourself much more healthy fiber and other nutrients.
