Acne and Digestive Health

Acne and Digestive Health - Connection and What To Do?

Could trusting your gut be the secret to clear skin? It might be! If you're struggling with stubborn breakouts, poor digestion could play a bigger role than you think.

We’ve all heard the phrase, “You are what you eat.” But the truth is, you aren’t just what you eat—you’re what you absorb. Let’s break it down: the food you consume directly impacts your gut health, which in turn affects your digestion. When your gut is compromised, digestion can slow down, leading to constipation. And when your body isn’t eliminating waste efficiently, toxins build up, potentially causing clogged pores and—you guessed it—acne.

Read on to discover the connection between digestion and acne, and tips to a healthier, happy gut.

Poor Digestion: A Hidden Culprit Behind Acne

Think of your skin as a mirror reflecting what’s happening inside your body. There's an important relationship between gut health and acne. When your gut health is off, your skin might be the first place to show it. If you’re not having regular bowel movements, your entire system, including your liver, lymphatic system, and skin, can suffer. So, staying regular is crucial for clear, healthy skin.

Foods and Habits for a Healthy Gut

Did you know that 70% of your immune system is located in your gut? The foods you choose can either support or sabotage your gut health. You can make plenty of dietary choices to support proper gut function

To promote a balanced gut, consider avoiding these common triggers:

  • Gluten
  • Dairy
  • Eggs
  • Processed Foods
  • Excessive Sugar
  • Nightshades (potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplants)--if you have autoimmune concerns

Instead, nourish your body with:

  • Fresh Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Complex Carbohydrates
  • Probiotics
  • Healthy Fats

Don’t forget to stay hydrated; drink water first thing when you wake up! Add a pinch of Himalayan salt and lemon for added electrolytes. For an extra gut-friendly boost, try adding Aloe Vera Juice to your routine.

But it’s not just about what you eat—it’s also about how you eat. High stress, distractions during meals, and poor eating habits can all negatively impact your digestion. The good news? These are all manageable factors.

Is Your Gut to Blame for Your Breakouts?

If you’re wondering whether poor digestion is behind your acne, the best way to find out is with CLEARSTEM’s Acne Lab Test. This customized blood test includes markers commonly out of range when it comes to acne.

The panel helps us unpack what the blood is communicating through a variety of categories such as stress, blood sugar, hydration, hormones, possible infections, immune function, inflammation, and more with our functional lab testing technology. These imbalances contribute to overall health, and can also influence your skin.

Our Acne Specialists will offer personalized insights and recommendations, helping you identify if your gut health is the root cause of your breakouts, and giving you a care plan for clearer skin.

Glow From Within: Your Gut, Your Skin, Your Power

Achieving clear skin is about more than just what you put on your face; it’s about understanding what’s happening inside your body. By paying attention to your gut health, you’re not only supporting your digestion but also setting the foundation for radiant, acne-free skin.

Remember, your skin reflects your internal health, so when you nourish your body from the inside out, your skin will thank you.