The Natural Health Research Institute (Tulsa, OK, NHRI)) reported previous supplementation studies suggest vitamin C plays a role in skin collagen synthesis and protects skin from sun damage. Other studies suggested that supplementation with omega-3 fish oil could also protect the skin from sun damage, reported NHRI.
A new cross-sectional study of 4,025 women between 40–74 years of age showed their dietary nutrient intake as opposed to supplement use compared to the condition of their skin to see if consumption of certain nutrients in their regular diets affected skin aging. A trained dietician had each participant complete a survey to assess their intake of dietary nutrients during the previous 24 hours, and their skin was examined by trained dermatologists for the presence of wrinkles, skin thinning, and dryness associated with aging, according to the institute.
The data were adjusted for age, race, energy intake, education, sunlight exposure, family income, menopausal status, body mass index (BMI), supplement use and physical activity. Results suggested that higher intake of vitamin C and linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acids from plant sources) and lower intake of fats and carbohydrates were associated with better skin-aging appearance independent of the above factors known to affect skin aging, reported NHRI.
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