Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (191 page)

AVOID

Tea, coffee, and alcohol.

Salt. Excess sodium in the system leads to skin puffiness and swelling.

Spices.

Red meat, dairy products, refined and fried foods, and foods that contain hydrogenated oils or fats.

Sugar, chemicals, pesticides, tobacco, and drugs, which deplete nutrient stores.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Take EFA supplements, mainly as omega-3s.

Take flax oil every day until the skin improves.

Rotate evening primrose oil supplements and borage oil supplements.

EXTRA TIPS

Take up meditation or yoga breathing exercises and learn how to breathe properly.

Avoid taking long, hot showers or baths. They can strip your skin of its natural moisturizers. Instead, take a short, warm shower or bath. Try to pat your skin almost dry, and apply a moisturizer while your skin is slightly damp.

Add a few spoonfuls of olive oil to your bath water. It will help to moisturize your skin and leave it feeling soft and smooth.

Consider your home heating system. If your home is extremely dry, you could get yourself a humidifier to help to prevent your skin from drying out.