In our quest to achieve this most of us would use sun blocking cream and several expensive moisturising creams and lotions; some even undergo other cosmetic procedures like peels, microdermabrasion and laser treatments.

But the most important and overlooked fact is that when we see someone whose skin glows is the fact that they take good care of their skin and also of their body.

Conversely when we see someone with dull and lifeless skin we can safely assume that they are either ill or have simply aged poorly. As I always say – the skin is the largest organ of the human body and hence it is a good mirror of one’s internal health. In any case getting healthy looking skin is a priority for many women and men in today’s society. Anything that might be able to help the skin repair and protect itself from damage is like the quest for the fountain of youth.

Commonly, as one ages, the skin looks lifeless or starts developing pigmentation due to oxidative damage from the environmental toxins. It also develops wrinkles which are prominent on the face especially around the eyes. This is caused by a decrease of the levels of elastin and collagen in the skin caused by the inflammatory breakdown caused by arachidonic acid and other inflammatory prostaglandins in the body.

Most of us do not get enough Omega 3 fatty acids from diet and the ensuing deficiency leads to problems like eczema, dandruff, dry and flaky skin and poor wound healing. The lack of moisture in the skin is NOT caused by lack of moisturising creams!! Hence the use of moisturising creams to improve skin health basically misses the most important issue – which is lack of Omega 3’s. Hence fish oil containing Omega 3 essential fatty acid EPA helps to prevent wrinkles and can delay the ageing process according to research published in the Journal of Lipid Research in 2005.

Scientists have also found that fish oil containing EPA can limit the damage to the skin produced by over exposure to the sun and help to reduce the negative effects of UV rays. This is extremely useful in the prevention of skin cancers caused predominantly by exposure to the suns harmful rays.

The main Omega3 fatty acids are ALA, EPA and DHA. ALA is found in dark green leafy vegetables and algae, white EPA and DHA are found in fish like tuna, mackerel, herring and wild (not farmed) salmon.

Hence, supplementing with good quality fish oil can nurture the skin from the inside out. By helping the body to perform cellular repair more easily it helps keep moisture in the skin and allows it to look fuller and healthier. Fish oils have other health benefits throughout the body and I will be bringing these to you in future articles.

But remember, PLEASE DO NOT supplement with any fish oil as poorly manufactured fish oil can in fact create oxidative damage and accelerate a disease process. A complete programme of quality fish oil in the correct dosage needs to be complimented with an individualised comprehensive nutritional programme including other nutrients and antioxidants. can provide you with the best results.

Also remember that self medication with natural supplementation is not ideal and safe so it is sensible to seek professional advice from a qualified practitioner in natural medicine.

Please address any correspondence to reception@wellnesscentre.co.nz