Skin is often considered a mirror reflecting our overall health. What happens on the outside of the body is indicative of what’s happening inside the body. And if the skin is unhealthy, you can bet the inside is as well.
While the connection between cardiovascular health and skin conditions may not be immediately apparent, a growing body of research suggests a profound interplay between the two. Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, once viewed as isolated skin concerns, are now being recognized for their potential implications on cardiovascular health. In this article, we delve into the intricate link between skin health and cardiovascular well-being, exploring studies that illuminate the association between skin disorders and serious cardiovascular conditions like heart attacks, stroke, atrial fibrillation, abnormal cholesterol levels, coronary artery disease, and hypertension.
You will realize that topical pharmaceuticals such as steroids and other toxic lotions/creams are not the answer. The answer is to find the CAUSE of your skin condition. By reversing the cause of skin issues, you will lower your cardiovascular risk.
Eczema and Cardiovascular Health:
Recent studies have indicated that eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, might be more than just a superficial concern. Research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and other sources highlight a potential link between eczema and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. The studies suggest that the chronic inflammation characteristic of eczema may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, potentially leading to heart attacks and strokes. This revelation underscores the importance of managing inflammation not just for skin comfort but also for cardiovascular well-being.
Psoriasis and Cardiovascular Risk:
Psoriasis, another inflammatory skin disorder, has also been implicated in cardiovascular complications. A comprehensive meta-analysis published in JAMA Dermatology and this article from the American College of Cardiology suggest that individuals with psoriasis have an elevated risk of experiencing cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. The chronic inflammation associated with psoriasis is believed to contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis and the development of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, psoriasis has been linked to other risk factors like abnormal cholesterol levels and metabolic syndrome, further emphasizing the need for holistic management.
Dermatitis and Cardiovascular Implications:
Dermatitis, characterized by inflamed and irritated skin, has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. A recent study revealed that individuals with dermatitis, particularly those with severe cases, were more likely to experience atrial fibrillation—an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can lead to stroke and other heart-related complications. The study suggests that the systemic inflammation associated with dermatitis may contribute to the development of arrhythmias and underscores the importance of considering skin health in the broader context of cardiovascular well-being.
Common Threads: Inflammation and Immune System Dysregulation:
What ties these skin conditions to cardiovascular risk is the common thread of chronic inflammation and immune system dysregulation. Chronic inflammation, a hallmark of conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, can set the stage for the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. The immune system, when constantly activated, contributes to the formation of arterial plaques, endothelial dysfunction, and other factors that increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, atrial fibrillation and all the rest.
What to Do
At Natural Heart Doctor, we believe that if you give the body what it needs and take away what it does not, that is the solution to a healthy heart and healthy skin. So, Eat Well, Live Well and Think Well.
We know that foods containing vitamins and minerals along with healthy proteins and fats are the optimal way to improve skin health while lowering cardiovascular risk. And there are no better foods for these nutrients than wild seafood and ethically raised animals. The prize in the animal world are organs like liver and heart. Nothing is more nutrient dense.
So stock up on these foods for your skin, heart and everything else including brain, gut, and immune support.
Not a fan of eating organs or seafood like wild salmon roe? Try our Kickstart My Heart bison organs and our Wild Salmon Roe for the best foods, freeze-dried, and encapsulated.
The Best Topical Protection for Your Skin
Billions of dollars are spent on over-the-counter skin products for wrinkles, aging spots (lentigo), and dry skin. And billions more are spent on prescription steroid creams and more.
This is not the best approach.
The best approach to skincare is nature. And we have the perfect line-up for you.
Check out the line-up of food-based skin care products for men, women, children and babies at WildMamas.com. Use code NHD15 for 15% off any skincare purchase.
Quite simply, there is no better way to skin health than food. And when you apply the food to your skin, skin food, magic happens.
Try it for yourself.
